Basketball in Muncie this evening

I too don't see effort on D as a big team problem over the last few years.  We have been vulnerable to good post play and a bit undersized but it has not been lack of effort.  We have done better getting out on people, occasionally let people get into the lane on the drive.  A big active rim protector would really help of course. 

Thomas did not play precisely because he could not get in synch, so I would say Whitford cared a lot about that issue. At the end of the year he was doing better, and found a fit on offense and his effort on D was pretty good.

I bet Rob was talking more about his offensive potential, and his tendency to take the long shot instead of going to the rim.  In a way he was hurt by playing with Teague who we needed to do somewhat the same thing and required space inside.  Maybe we'll see Thomas getting some of those chances this year.  We should have better outside shooting without Teague in the lineup.  Especially if Hendricks or Hazen can provide a even a good mid range game.  Mallers could take a man outside, but certainly Teague could not do that... Jones has an outside game, and a front line with Jones, Hendricks and Thomas who are all versatile players might create some mismatches for Thomas. More a triple threat.

A smaller lineup with Acree or Coleman might also do that, but we need some size in the game and that right now, as has been the case in the past,  is the question mark. 

Yep.  I think we were surprised that he didn't come out of the gate faster.  He played a year in practice and a year at his first school.  Probably thought he could just show up at game time.  You can't prepare and be ready at this level doing that.

If he can take another step up this year he can be pretty good.  He does need to have chances for one on one play.  With that athleticism you don't use him like Mallers.   Last year his job was to use it on defense but be a complimentary player on offense, take open shots, stay out of the way of Teague, should have better chances this year.