Mark Mitchell’s decision to return to Missouri was a major disappointment for Kentucky, but it may not leave Mark Pope searching for an answer outside his own roster.
Mitchell would have brought Kentucky valuable experience, versatility and two-way ability. His departure changes the Wildcats’ rotation, but it also creates an opportunity for another player to step into a much bigger role.
That player could be Ousmane N’Diaye.
The 7-foot forward has the size and physical tools to become one of the most important pieces of Kentucky’s frontcourt. With Mitchell no longer available, N’Diaye could see his role expand considerably, particularly on defense and on the glass.
Kentucky does not need N’Diaye to duplicate everything Mitchell would have provided. Instead, Pope needs him to become a dependable contributor who can protect the rim, rebound, defend multiple positions and provide an interior presence.
If N’Diaye can do that consistently, the Wildcats may have a much easier time absorbing Mitchell’s departure.
The opportunity is also there for several other Kentucky players.
Milan Momcilovic could become even more important offensively. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots gives Kentucky a weapon that opponents will have to respect. Malachi Moreno will also have increased responsibility in the paint, while Alex Wilkins could become an important scoring option on the perimeter.
Players such as Kam Williams and Mason Williams could also benefit from the additional opportunities created by Mitchell’s absence.
Ultimately, though, N’Diaye could have the biggest opportunity of them all.
Kentucky entered the season with considerable expectations, and Mitchell’s addition briefly made the roster look even more dangerous. Now Pope has to maximize the talent already available to him.
That could mean giving N’Diaye more minutes, more touches and more responsibility.
If he responds, Kentucky could discover that the solution to its biggest roster problem was already in the building.
Mitchell may be gone, but Pope still has plenty of talent to work with. The next step is finding the player ready to turn that opportunity into production.
For N’Diaye, that opportunity could be coming at exactly the right time.
