Another solid game for Loyer last night. I have felt this for a while, but as the season progresses I find myself becoming more and more convinced that how Loyer plays is a huge key to how successful Purdue will be this season. We know that we can count on Edey. Smith has emerged as a force which is hard to deny. Jones brings great defense and fight. TKR and Gillis are emerging as a great tandem at the 4. Yet, to me it is Loyer who is the difference maker. When he is playing well, defenses are put in a bind because they are already focused on taking away Edey and Smith and Loyer is that third multi-dimensional scorer who can hurt you in so many ways.
The issue with him is consistency. It’s really hard to know which Loyer will show up on a given night. Yet, as the season goes on, I feel like Loyer is gaining confidence and when he is confident, his skills shine through.
He seemed to hit the wall last year and the physicality of the Big Ten season seemed to get to him. But, this season I feel like I am seeing the opposite with his confidence growing as the season goes on. I hope I am right, because I think that when Loyer is at his best, Purdue is probably the best team in the country.
The issue with him is consistency. It’s really hard to know which Loyer will show up on a given night. Yet, as the season goes on, I feel like Loyer is gaining confidence and when he is confident, his skills shine through.
He seemed to hit the wall last year and the physicality of the Big Ten season seemed to get to him. But, this season I feel like I am seeing the opposite with his confidence growing as the season goes on. I hope I am right, because I think that when Loyer is at his best, Purdue is probably the best team in the country.