Without Azubuike rock chalk is going to more 4 guard play like in years past. This may bode well for us for a couple reasons.
1) Depth behind Samuel is less of a concern as JD and Lat can play the 5 when Kansas goes small.
2) Our length could actually be a big advantage inside, especially if we can get to the line and actually make the free throws.
3) Kansas has been very good playing small in the past, but they were lethal from 3 and our perimeter defense was a train wreck. This year, our perimeter D is MUCH better and Kansas is not very good from 3.
If they can't score as much from the perimeter as they have in years past I don't see them supplementing that production from the paint against us. I think they'll need to turn this into a defensive slugfest to beat us and this may be where missing Kaden on the defensive end could hurt us. Guard defense may be the most pivotal part of the game for us, especially is Fish is out.
RJ is going to get a chance to shine tonight. Guard depth will be huge if we win. Look for Noi to have a productive night offensively too. If they go small I'm not sure who they'll have to defend his shot from deep. If he finds his range early he could have a loud night.