As BYU looks to push for an NCAA Tournament bid down the stretch, they'll need a variety of contributors to make up for lost time. Guys like Richie Saunders and Fousseyni Traore have already had career-defining performances in big games this season. But who could be next in line to have a breakout (or re-breakout) performance for the Cougs? Let's take a look.
Mawot Mag
In terms of impact, Mawot Mag has already broken out, seeing an increase in minutes thanks to terrific defense, rebounding, and timely corner 3s. But he’s yet to truly explode for a career-high type of night. It could come soon though. Mag has started to find his flow in the offense, especially as a cutter and a beneficiary of Egor Demin. In BYU’s huge second-half run against Colorado, six of his eight points in the half came on layups assisted by Demin.
With his minutes increasing by the week and his comfort in the offense improving with it, a breakout performance could be on the horizon. Either way, Coach Kevin Young will take his defensive impact and versatility every night, especially on a team that desperately needs it.
Dawson Baker
Before the season started, Dallin Hall mentioned Dawson Baker as a name who was flying under the radar despite a good offseason. Baker proved him right with a breakout moment against Queens in November, when he erupted for 22 points on 8-10 shooting, including six 3s. He also had a solid stretch in December, but so far in conference play, Baker has been a quieter contributor.
Still, the junior guard has shown plenty of flashes that will allow him to take the BYU offense to the next level. His shooting ability is certainly what he is best known for, but he has shown improvement as a creator throughout the season, getting better at navigating into the lane and being less reliant on his 3.
His minutes have stayed fairly consistent thanks to these improvements. With constant time on the floor, it won't be long until he catches fire again.
Egor Demin
It's no secret that Egor Demin has struggled over the past month or so. But if BYU’s win against Colorado means anything, he might just be back. While the freshman only scored eight points, he was efficient inside the arc and near the rim, while also looking like his old self as a passer, dishing out seven assists. A between-the-legs pass to Richie Saunders highlighted the night, and should hopefully serve as a confidence boost moving forward.
His outside shot really needs to start dropping again, but a six game sample size from the beginning of the season proves that’s not out of the realm of possibility. While the competition is now tougher in the Big 12, Demin is healthier and ready for another stretch of statement making games.
Kanon Catchings
This last one is more of a long shot, but Kanon Catchings still possesses the ability for an explosive game. While his decreasing minutes are not a great sign, Kevin Young has given him a pretty long leash to work with. His poor shot selection and streaky shooting would probably keep him off the court entirely under coaches like Tom Izzo or Bill Self, but he’s still finding plenty of time in Provo, just a little less so than he was a few months ago.
Catchings' high upside is well known. He can jump out of the gym to dunk or block shots, and he is also probably the best contested shot maker on the team. When it all comes together, it will be a special night. In the meantime, a focus on smart plays, sound defense, and the little things will go a long way.