UConn vs. DePaul: Checking In From Allstate Arena

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Checking in with some notes, thoughts from Allstate Arena. Game time is about 35 minutes away …

The Huskies have a few minor bumps and bruises, typical for this time of year with the games bunched together. Shabazz Napier’s foot is sore again, and Niels Giffey has a sore knee and Omar Calhoun is still dealing with the sprained wrist, but all are going to play. In fact, they’re all on the court shooting now.

Usual lineup for the Huskies – Tyler Olander, DeAndre Daniels, Ryan Boatright, Calhoun and Napier.

You’ll see a lot of Giffey off the bench. Maybe a little more Phil Nolan tonight? Just a hunch.

A few NBA scouts here, Bulls, Hornets and a scouting service, among others. Talked with one who says, as most do, that Napier is not projected as a high pick in the draft. When the time comes, it’s going to be a complicated decision for him, let’s put it that way. One scout seems to have some interest in DeAndre Daniels, for down the road, intrigued by his length.

Here is my story on Daniels from  the Saturday Courant.

A little snow here in Chicago on Friday, just cold today. Not much of a climate change for UConn. They are a little concerned about their late-night flight home after this game, with a “wintry mix” expected back in northern Connecticut.

DePaul has lost 10 of its last 11.  … Expecting a huge Boatright cheering section tonight.

Here is our capsule look at the game.