Michigan Basketball: Predictions, keys and how to watch vs Minnesota

One key is keeping Minnesota off the glass

When you look at what Minnesota does well, one thing, especially on offense is offensive rebounds. The Gophers have grabbed 233 offensive boards this season, which ranks 39th in the country.

While the Gophers rank outside the top 200 in overall field goal percentage, 3-point percentage and free throw percentage, the Gophers still average 74.3 points per game, although in Big Ten play that has dipped slightly to 70.1 a game.

Senior Jordan Murphy is a huge presence for the Gophers and he is also one of the best rebounding forwards in the Big Ten. He will try to get to the free throw line as he has done over eight times per game this season, so avoiding cheap fouls will be key.

Ignas Brazdeikis will likely guard him and the key will be forcing him to settle for jumpers. Amir Coffey, who leads Minnesota in scoring (15.7 PPG) will be another focal point for Michigan’s defense.

Gabe Kalscheur and Dupree McBrayer are two Gophers to watch from 3-point range and another guy the Wolverines need to keep off the glass is freshman big man Daniel Oturu, who averages over 10 points and 7.4 boards. Jon Teske needs to earn at least a stalemate against him.