When Cook comes back, will Iowa be starting 4 freshman?

[Franisdaman]

Is this the line up when Cook comes back?

G JoBo, FRESHMAN
G Moss, RS FRESHMAN
G Jok, SENIOR
F Cook, FRESHMAN
F Pemsl, FRESHMAN

Or will Wagner (a sophomore) continue to start and Pemsl back up Cook again?

When was the last time Iowa started 4 freshman?

 

[showtime641]

I didn't get to watch this game, how did Wagner play? I really like his game. Not everyone needs to be a scorer.

In the end, I don't see how the lineup you listed is not the the starting lineup when cook returns (cook, Pemsl, Jok, Moss, JBO, . However, I also don't want to mess with a good thing! Good problem to have...

 

[HawksRMe]

I think Cook comes off the bench for a game or 2. After that Wagner comes off the bench. Cook is just too good not to start.

 

[hawkeyeguy69]

I didn't get to watch this game, how did Wagner play? I really like his game. Not everyone needs to be a scorer.

In the end, I don't see how the lineup you listed is not the the starting lineup when cook returns (cook, Pemsl, Jok, Moss, JBO, . However, I also don't want to mess with a good thing! Good problem to have...

Wagner is missing that smoothness on the offensive end. But he did look better. More PT and tape will help that. His defense is decent. And his rebounding remains good. He is another one that is benefiting from Cook being gone.

Not sure who starts when Cook gets back. But Pemsl stays. He is playing better than Cook was when got injured. Cordel's all-around game is solid and great to see. His play, although not the only thing, is one of the main reasons Jok has a good team for his senior year. Peter best be thanking him.

I'm fine with the current lineup. Although I'd be at least as happy if not more with Baer starting. The guy is good(double double yesterday). Cook in there would be OK too.

One thing is for certain, we have a good team. One that WILL be great. And for many years to come! Love it!

Hawkeye state.

On Iowa!

 

[Herky T Hawk]

I think Cook eventually starts in place of Wagner. But the post offense continues to run through Pemsl. Cook can clean up the boards for out backs and be in position for dump offs and easy dunks.

The biggest problem with this though is that the second unit now has 2 offensively challenged post players in Wagner and Uhl. I'd like to not see them both come in at the same time. It is amazing watching the difference between Wagner and Pemsl. Wagner has some nice moves and athletic abilities but not a great touch. With Pemsl he has such a soft touch on his post shots that you expect them all to go in. As someone else mentioned in a different post, if Woody had Pemsl's post moves and shooting touch to go with his defensive abilities, he'd be in the NBA right now.

 

[CO_hawk]

This is great, and most of the Big10 doesn't even know what to expect. Going to be some fun times this year if this squad full of Freshman and Sophomores pulls some upsets.

 

[MWardT]

Probably doesn't matter because Cook will get more minutes regardless but I'd keep the momentum going and start Wagner.

 

[hawk-i bob]

Fran likes Wagner's defense & board work. Cook needs to improve both just as his teammates have over the last 3 games. I'm sure Cook realizes that. Wouldn't surprise me AW stays as a starter.

It also wouldn't surprise me that Cook does not play this week either. If that is the case would be pretty difficult to make a starting lineup change just prior to the first B1G game.

 

[kceasthawk]

I have a hard time believing that Cook doesn't start once he works his way back into a groove. He's a major talent who had some things to learn. I think the time watching will benefit him the rest of the season. As well as Baer has been playing, I think he is the perfect guy for that sixth man role. Great energy off the bench, and he gives the hawks some offensive versatility and rebounding.

 

[C/Seahawk]

Is this the line up when Cook comes back?

G JoBo, FRESHMAN
G Moss, RS FRESHMAN
G Jok, SENIOR
F Cook, FRESHMAN
F Pemsl, FRESHMAN

Or will Wagner (a sophomore) continue to start and Pemsl back up Cook again?

When was the last time Iowa started 4 freshman?

Just like during preseason, Cook will have to earn his starting spot back and I don't think it will be immediate. Fran would be crazy to mess with the chemistry and momentum the team has built while Jones and Cook have been hurt. This could be a huge blessing in disguise for the Hawks long term. I think going into the season Cook felt the pressure to make a big impact on the offensive end, which isn't really his game. The team has proven during the past two games that we can win without offense from Cook, and the best way his return can have a positive impact on the team is to excel with defense, rebounding and energy. No doubt we have the potential to be a much better team with Cook than without, but it isn't guaranteed and given what has happened since his injury, hopefully is willing and able to work his way back in by way of a complimentary role. He was used to that in high school, so have no reason to think he wouldn't embrace that role now.

 

[And1Hawk]

Cook's finger could to be dicey for a little while since it required surgery. Like an earlier poster said he will likely come off the bench until he proves he's fully healed and unaffected shooting wise from the injury. Will he be playing with a splint (not good)? He's too good not to play heavy minutes when healthy.

TC was not good on the boards or defensively but very good offensively when he was playing. If he can shore up both of those areas he'd bring much more than Wagner who is very limited offensively and Wagner's been a nice addition to the starting lineup. Baer is fabulous as the 6th man.

Someone is going to get crunched minutes wise going forward. It will not be Baer so it will be Uhl or Wagner.

 

[ZaHawks]

I'll be very surprised if Cook doesn't start every game he plays at Iowa.

 

[hawk-i bob]

and I should say...I don't doubt that Tyler Cook will be a very good defender,,,he has the tools and attitude. I'm sure he is biting at the bullet to get back out there. Getting some time in the next 2 games would be great...but that's not a certainty.

 

[DenverTurtle]

Is this the line up when Cook comes back?

G JoBo, FRESHMAN
G Moss, RS FRESHMAN
G Jok, SENIOR
F Cook, FRESHMAN
F Pemsl, FRESHMAN

Or will Wagner (a sophomore) continue to start and Pemsl back up Cook again?

When was the last time Iowa started 4 freshman?

I like your starting 5. Pemsl has been playing so well I just don't see how you can take him out of the starting line up. Wagner and Baer off the bench with Uhl's improved D and rebounding, add in Williams and that's a deep 9 man rotation with very little drop off (other than when Jok is out)

 

[DenverTurtle]

I didn't get to watch this game, how did Wagner play? I really like his game. Not everyone needs to be a scorer.

In the end, I don't see how the lineup you listed is not the the starting lineup when cook returns (cook, Pemsl, Jok, Moss, JBO, . However, I also don't want to mess with a good thing! Good problem to have...

Wagner played well. He was aggressive going to the rim on offense, rebounded well and played D well, he's still a bit foul prone, but our depth at his position helps. He missed a few shots but they were good shots that he needs to take. Good energy which I think he can continue to provide consistently playing 15-20 min a game.

 

[DenverTurtle]

Wagner is missing that smoothness on the offensive end. But he did look better. More PT and tape will help that. His defense is decent. And his rebounding remains good. He is another one that is benefiting from Cook being gone.

Not sure who starts when Cook gets back. But Pemsl stays. He is playing better than Cook was when got injured. Cordel's all-around game is solid and great to see. His play, although not the only thing, is one of the main reasons Jok has a good team for his senior year. Peter best be thanking him.

I'm fine with the current lineup. Although I'd be at least as happy if not more with Baer starting. The guy is good(double double yesterday). Cook in there would be OK too.

One thing is for certain, we have a good team. One that WILL be great. And for many years to come! Love it!

Hawkeye state.

On Iowa!

I agree with almost all of this but I honestly think Baer has been playing better off than bench than he did starting. Fran even said that when he has Baer out he just thinks about when he can put him back in so I understand why you want him to start.
I am barely old enough to remember Jeff Moe. For those who don't remember Jeff Moe he was definitely good enough to start for Iowa under Dr Tom back in the mid/late '80's but he played better coming off the bench, so he did even though he was one of the best 5 at the time.

 

[kceasthawk]

Just like during preseason, Cook will have to earn his starting spot back and I don't think it will be immediate. Fran would be crazy to mess with the chemistry and momentum the team has built while Jones and Cook have been hurt. This could be a huge blessing in disguise for the Hawks long term. I think going into the season Cook felt the pressure to make a big impact on the offensive end, which isn't really his game. The team has proven during the past two games that we can win without offense from Cook, and the best way his return can have a positive impact on the team is to excel with defense, rebounding and energy. No doubt we have the potential to be a much better team with Cook than without, but it isn't guaranteed and given what has happened since his injury, hopefully is willing and able to work his way back in by way of a complimentary role. He was used to that in high school, so have no reason to think he wouldn't embrace that role now.

I agree with most everything you said. I just don't think Cook will be out of the starting lineup for long. Cook was highly recruited, and the only reason he was a complimentary player in high school, was he played with Tatuem, who is starting at Duke. I not so sure that Tyler hasn't learned the same lessons as the others players in the last couple of weeks. He may not have been playing, but he was at practice, while the coaches drilled the players on what their lack of defense, and energy was getting them. He's a smart kid. I think he will embrace those lessons. If not, then I'm sure Fran will remind him with a seat next to him on the pine.

 

[cocoem]

I'll be very surprised if Cook doesn't start every game he plays at Iowa.

He will start.

 

[HawkLogic]

The starting 5 looks great, but what the one senior is going to be hard to replace next year. Too bad for Jok's senior year the rest of these guys aren't sophomores.

 

[HeRKeYHoPeFuL]

I wonder if the staff sees redundancy in Pemsl and Cook? The offensive style is different (Pemsl is crafty while Cook uses his athleticism), but the result for each is a legitimate post scoring threat. If you pair each with Uhl, Baer or Jones to add an extra shooter the team may play more consistently. I'd we play them together we would see a philosophy change when they have to sit which can result in the droughts we suffered through in the past.

 

[And1Hawk]

That's why Moss's development is key this year and Fran needs to keep playing him. He is the closest player to what Jok brings at the guard/wing position. It's not an exact 1-1 match but Moss is supposed to be a very good 3 point shooter which I think we will see more of as his confidence evolves. He will not be as pure of a shooter as Jok though but who is. Moss can play better D and can slash more than Pete. When you add it all up, that's the best bet for replacing some of what Pete brings. Jok has been fantastic by the way.

 

[LuteHawk]

The only limitations on Cook will be the health of
his finger. Cook is the top out of state recruit in
many years. He will play as much as his injury
allows him. Coach Fran must guard his future
super star from further injury..

 

[wyohawk]

Is this the line up when Cook comes back?

G JoBo, FRESHMAN
G Moss, RS FRESHMAN
G Jok, SENIOR
F Cook, FRESHMAN
F Pemsl, FRESHMAN

Or will Wagner (a sophomore) continue to start and Pemsl back up Cook again?

When was the last time Iowa started 4 freshman?

Short answer? Yes, he starts.

 

[kceasthawk]

I wonder if the staff sees redundancy in Pemsl and Cook? The offensive style is different (Pemsl is crafty while Cook uses his athleticism), but the result for each is a legitimate post scoring threat. If you pair each with Uhl, Baer or Jones to add an extra shooter the team may play more consistently. I'd we play them together we would see a philosophy change when they have to sit which can result in the droughts we suffered through in the past.

Good thoughts. I guess we'll see as it plays out.

 

[24 so far]

I think it's a no-brainer to start Cook when he's healthy enough to play. Wagner would be first to go and he should be. No way in hell you bench Pemsl at this point. The guy has been Money in Cook's absence. You start these two guys and find a way for them to co-exist on the floor at the same time until they've played their last eligible game at Iowa.

Guys get plenty of minutes in Fran's game regardless, but Baer has proven to be better off the bench IMO. And if you're worried about Defense and Rebounding you stagger Cook and Pemsl some while Wagner comes in.

Bottom line is Cook and Pemsl need to play more than Wagner. Period.

And frankly, it is important to get off to good starts, but its more important to play well late, and that's where Baer stays in and Cook leaves until he learns how to hit his free throws.

So yeah, start 4 Freshman and Jok and see where it takes us.

 

[oakhawk]

 

[Zildjian6868]

The commentators eluded to Cook being out for possible anther couple weeks. Was there any credibility to that? Last I heard he could be back for there next game in a couple days.

 

[DanL53]

View embedded media

Yeah but I think they were freshmen like I was, for about twenty years!

 

[DanL53]

Many good thoughts on this thread. I think Cook will start after a couple games off the bench. And I wouldn't be surprised to find it is indeed four freshmen.

Which brings me to my point. Ask any three year old how old they are and despite holding up a varied combination of fingers that seem to be a strange Vulcan symbol. They will also answer something like, 3 1/2!

I'd point out that our Freshmen just took their finals, and are now, Frosh and 1/2.

 

[OutbackBowl2017]

Fran needs to keep playing this rotation and bring in Cook off the bench. He needs to get better with both his O and D then let the game come to him. He is rushing things and forcing to make things happen too much.

Hate to say it but the best thing that could of happened, happened with Cook's injury as it allowed other players to step up and get that chance - Bo, Pemsl, Isiah, Baer, etc. before they were relying on Cook to be the man, even Jok to a certain extent.

These players are starting to play team basket ball on both ends of the court. They are young but growing up in a big way. I see Moss really stepping into Jok's role next year as he is more athletic with a good shot. Not as good a pure shooter as Jok but getting better. This team really reminds me of an MSU type team that Izzo starts the year with slowly then builds into a hard out in the tourney.

It's amazing what these freshman can do but when they play AAU ball against the best players and teams in the country, they are not afraid or scared to play anybody. That's what we are seeing in all of these freshman. They are used to playing at a high level and not afraid make a play or take the shot. Very nice to see out of Fran's team.

 

[The Sleeping Dog]

Cook looked like a very talented kid before the finger injury. Cook will be back in the starting lineup sooner rather than later, once fully healed. I look forward to other B1G fans claiming Pemsyl and Cook have been around forever. Actually, since Moss and Bohannon are likely four year starters this whole squad is going to get old for the rest of the B1G.

Totally agree better for the team to open the Baer Cage about 5-6 minutes in. Totally shakes up the game.

Thinking about the Iowa line up should remind everyone how far our player quality has come under McCaffery. Hawk starting line up is 3 ESPN 4*s, a Parade AA state PoY and Pemsyl (forgotten to recruiting services due to injury and early Iowa commit.) It doesn't make you long for the BromArch does it?

 

[33hawkfan]

To me Wagner looks like a guy who's the 8th guy or so on a really good team, if he's a starter you probably aren't that good. I think Cook should start once he's fully back to game shape, may be a couple games after he first comes back. Pemsl and Cook aren't a perfect fit together, there's a lot of overlap between their games, but that's something you might as well work through as soon as possible. This year needs to be all about developing the freshman. I think we've seen enough from all the sophomores and juniors to know none of them are anything more than role player types.

 

[JEDN]

Tyler Cook is a vastly superior BB talent than either Wagner or Uhl and it will not take long for him to return to the starting lineup.

 

[mazda1]

Pemsl passes very well. If he learns to play from the high post the two of them on the floor could be good on the offensive end.

My concern about playing both together is what happens to the D. We are going to need foul protection in the middle and I'd hope we'd see Cook be able to defend stretch 4 types. I could see Baer replacing one of them about 5 minutes in and then have them alternating the post minutes with the majority of the time going to the hot hand.

Both need to improve their free throwing before we can see the two of them on the floor together at crunch time.

 

[lonewolf52]

Wagner is missing that smoothness on the offensive end. But he did look better. More PT and tape will help that. His defense is decent. And his rebounding remains good. He is another one that is benefiting from Cook being gone.

Not sure who starts when Cook gets back. But Pemsl stays. He is playing better than Cook was when got injured. Cordel's all-around game is solid and great to see. His play, although not the only thing, is one of the main reasons Jok has a good team for his senior year. Peter best be thanking him.

I'm fine with the current lineup. Although I'd be at least as happy if not more with Baer starting. The guy is good(double double yesterday). Cook in there would be OK too.

One thing is for certain, we have a good team. One that WILL be great. And for many years to come! Love it!

Hawkeye state.

On Iowa!

I diagree with Baer starting; I'm not saying that he doesn't deserve it but what he brings off the bench has empowered this team. It seems like the last several years, Iowa does well with its starting 5, but once the subs begin there is a significant drop off in play and we lose all of the momentum. Baer brings the play and spark plug attitude to keep the team up after the initial surge.

In regards to the lineup, I think Cook is back in. Looking at our scoring, it has gone down since Cook went out. I don't believe you necessarily play worse defense when scoring more. In watching the UNI replay, we actually were pretty cold scoring; granted UNI had something to do with that, but we did really could've used another inside presence to compliment Pemsl. I also think Cook is vital to our transition offense as he is athletic enough to get out and run with our guards on the fast break.

 

[33hawkfan]

Pemsl passes very well. If he learns to play from the high post the two of them on the floor could be good on the offensive end.

My concern about playing both together is what happens to the D. We are going to need foul protection in the middle and I'd hope we'd see Cook be able to defend stretch 4 types. I could see Baer replacing one of them about 5 minutes in and then have them alternating the post minutes with the majority of the time going to the hot hand.

Both need to improve their free throwing before we can see the two of them on the floor together at crunch time.

Agreed, it's not a clean fit between Pemsl and Cook but this is a great year to find out what works and what doesn't between those two. Fran will never say it, but at this point it's more important to take a long view and develop the freshman over going all out to win every single game. Let them struggle together at times and go into next year with a solid young core to build around for the next three years.

 

[Ronman]

Yeah but I think they were freshmen like I was, for about twenty years!

They were the "Jess Settles" of the pop scene.

 

[ZumaHawk]

My thinking on whether Cook/Pemsl can coexist compared to Pemsl/Wagner is yes they can. Wagner basically has little offense and some good defense but Cook is much better Offensively. So, if Pemsl is down low and a big man is guarding Cook get him out to 15 feet to give Pemsl some room to work. If they don't give him room Pemsl is a good enough passer to find Cook. Where as Wagner isn't a threat at all from 15 feet.

 

[wyohawk]

My thinking on whether Cook/Pemsl can coexist compared to Pemsl/Wagner is yes they can. Wagner basically has little offense and some good defense but Cook is much better Offensively. So, if Pemsl is down low and a big man is guarding Cook get him out to 15 feet to give Pemsl some room to work. If they don't give him room Pemsl is a good enough passer to find Cook. Where as Wagner isn't a threat at all from 15 feet.

Agreed. Even with inferior defense, Cook's offense makes his presence far superior to Wagner. And it's not like Wagner's defense is that great.

I will say that Wagner's effort rebounding is a net plus, though I think in time Cook can hopefully match that as well, especially considering his physical advantages.

 

[Ronman]

As much of an advantage Cook's scoring ability will be, the staff really needs to challenge him to be a rim protector and rebounder. This team will find a way to put points on the board.