Sophomore forward Ben Carlson has severely underperformed pre-season expectations thus far. The former top 100 recruit is in the midst of an offensive rut, shooting (.324 FG%) and 0 of 11 from three. Few players need to see the ball go through the hoop more than Carlson at this point.
Ben Carlson has appeared in all 11 games (starting 1), and averaging 2.3 points and 2.8 rebounds per game.
Ben Carlson is a strong rebounder, versatile defender, and providing good energy off the bench – those are things he’s doing well right now. However, UW needs more from him offensively.
He’s been hesitant around the rim – shying away from contact at times, and hasn’t been the floor spacer Wisconsin was counting on at the beginning of the season. Now, I definitely think he can still give Wisconsin some good minutes off the bench, but perhaps its more likely that comes as a versatile forward that comes in to provide energy and rebounding.
The hustle play from Carlson turned into a deep Jordan Davis 3 ball. pic.twitter.com/Swy7vahgop
— Badger Notes (@Badger_Notes) December 9, 2021
Defensively, Carlson has played pretty well and has been a solid rebounding presence when called upon. Here’s to hoping Carlson is able to turn things around after a slow start, because I had initially thought he’d be more of a 6th man for this team, and that just hasn’t been the case. There is ample time for the sophomore to turn things around this season.
Despite the slow offensive start, I don’t believe this is indicative of the player his is or will be for the badgers. Ben Carlson is someone that’s still capable of being an impact player off the bench this season.
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