The missing piece?

George Goode is the sort of player you don't miss until he's gone. For most of this season he's been gone, nursing a knee bruise and the aftereffects of a concussion. And for my part, he's been sorely missed. Solid on defense, good energy on offense, a physical presence down low to bang around the boards, Goode would supply much of what ails the Cards in the paint. Pitino has hesitated in playing the Jennings-Samuels duo, claiming its not a good combination for our lineup. But I believe it has more to do with the fact that we have no real depth in the post should one of the those two, or (gulp) both, get into early foul trouble. Swopshire is playing fine basketball at the moment, but is not strong enough to battle the natural bruisers down low. Buckles flashes his promise and athleticism at times, but is still too raw to rely on from night to night. I have no word on when, or if, George Goode will return to the floor this season. But if he does, I think his presence could supply the missing ingredient for a team yet to catalyze.