The departure of Sanjay Lumpkin left a void in Northwestern’s starting lineup. Through six games, his absence has been felt. Gavin Skelly has filled in admirably to start his senior year but the Wildcats haven’t been as stingy defensively, allowing 44.4 percent shooting from the field and 34.7 percent from deep. Skelly has thrived as a reserve for the past two seasons, a role he’s better suited to play.
Redshirt sophomore Aaron Falzon has only played in three games, but his play in Skelly’s place has produced encouraging results. This lineup has yet to give up a three-pointer and has goaded opponents into more isolation possessions; opponents have assisted on just 45.