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After receiving news Tuesday that guard Kylan Boswell will miss several weeks with a fractured hand, Illinois finds itself facing major questions about how it will navigate the upcoming month without its veteran leader. Boswell is expected to miss several weeks and a return to action in mid-February is likely for the guard.
Before being sidelined, Boswell was in the midst of one of the best seasons of his collegiate career. The junior averaged 14 points, four rebounds and three assists per game while serving as the steady presence that kept the Illini offense organized on both ends of the floor.
Now, Illinois must adjust quickly — and the timing could not be more challenging.
Over the next few weeks, the Illini will face a daunting stretch that includes matchups against No. 4 Purdue, No. 7 Nebraska and No. 10 Michigan State. Without Boswell’s leadership and experience, Illinois will need production from across its roster to stay afloat in the Big Ten race.
Fortunately for the Illini, several players have already begun to emerge. Freshman Keaton Wagler has been a key contributor during Illinois’ seven-game winning streak, averaging 16 points, five rebounds and three assists per game. His ability to create offense and play with confidence will be crucial as his role continues to expand.
Illinois has also benefitted from the shooting of the Ivisic twins, who have consistently stretched defenses with their three-point range. Their perimeter presence opens up driving lanes and gives the Illini more flexibility in half-court sets.
Another player stepping into a larger role is Andrej Stojakovic. The guard has averaged 15 points over his last 11 games while shooting 56% from the field, providing Illinois with a reliable scoring option as Boswell recovers. Not to mention the impact David Mirkovic is providing as well. He’s averaging 12 points per game.
While replacing Boswell’s leadership will not fall on one player alone, Illinois has the pieces to weather the storm. How well those pieces come together over the next month will determine whether the Illini can maintain momentum without their veteran guard.
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