Plenty of us are angry here because the Gophers lost a game that was there for the taking despite 2 of our top starters being out. Let's step back and breathe for a second. We got caught in several mismatches today on defense, largely because we were having major issues guarding the high ball screen.
Hurt played 31 minutes, Konate played 27. Both should be expected to play about half that, but had to play more with Lynch and Amir out. They had one day to practice without Reggie. Sure, Hurt's baseline pass was bad, but Pitino said post game Mason was supposed to curl instead of pop. So if he does that, the pass is likely never thrown. But Hurt has to learn if you're going to throw that pass, throw it 20 feet into the back court and let Nate chase it down. Also, take a shot when you're open. He doesn't have much confidence offensively, and that has to change.
It's great that Murphy got his double-double, but I really couldn't care less. Make the 2 FTs to give us the lead with 25 seconds left, I'll gladly trade the meaningless rebound late for that.
Also, I have no idea why we're jacking up 2 contested 3s when you have a timeout left to put together a play. If you're not using a timeout, get a quick 2 and extend the game as long as you can. Murphy tried to draw a foul on his heave, and you have a better shot of winning the Powerball.
With Lynch's situation, I doubt he plays again this year. Knowing that, if Amir's shoulder is more than a 2 week thing, have the surgery and come back next year. Don't forget that McBrayer is playing hurt too. Frustrating and disappointing, but onto Northwestern. Winnable game if you play well.