Despite a slow start in the first halves of the opening two games for JJ Starling, Syracuse still relies on its junior guard to steady the ship amid many newcomers. However, Orange fans haven’t seen that happen on the court just yet this season.
In the first two games, Starling has posted 14 points and 12 points, respectively, against Le Moyne and Colgate. He’s turned the ball over three times in each game, and his shooting percentage stands at 50% through these contests, with a three-point clip of 3-for-9.
While those numbers are adequate, Starling has work to do to draw more fouls and become a leader for this Syracuse team, which is in search of a reliable guard who can help the Orange off to a fast start.
Starling had just four points in the first half versus Le Moyne, and only five points to start the Colgate game.
For a player who averaged 13.3 points last season in his sophomore year, Starling is poised to take a leap this year and continue his strong finish from last season. But when will he step up?
The hope is soon. SU has barely squeaked by its first two non-conference and local opponents.
Part of the solution, in my estimation, is that Starling can get to the free-throw line more frequently. He averaged less than two free throws per game last season, which is below his average of 2.1 in his freshman year at Notre Dame. He has the ability to slow the game down, and he needs to find a way to get to the charity stripe without turning the ball over.
Saturday presents a new opportunity for Syracuse to find its rhythm, and play a complete game against Youngstown State. Maybe the third time’s the charm for the Orange.
