Bruce Pearl sends warning to NBA teams about Kansas’ Darryn Peterson originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Former Auburn coach Bruce Pearl offered both praise and caution regarding Kansas Jayhawks star Darryn Peterson during a TNT Sports appearance Tuesday night. He raised questions about the freshman’s durability as NBA draft buzz continues to grow.
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Pearl acknowledged Peterson’s elite talent and maintained that conversations with league personnel still put him as a potential No. 1 overall pick. But he also pointed to what he called potential “red flags” tied to availability.
“They’re really good with him. They’re really good without him,” Pearl said. “I don’t think this is going to affect his draft stock. Everybody I’ve talked to in the league still thinks he looks like the number one guy. But if I was coaching in the NBA, I’d have some concern.”
Pearl specifically referenced Peterson missing 11 of Kansas’ 24 games this season due to various issues, including hamstring and quad injuries, along with recent illness.
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“My job is to coach a team. My job is to win championships,” Pearl said. “I’d be a little concerned about just how tough he is.”
Peterson did not play in Monday’s win over No. 1 Arizona, officially ruled out with flu-like symptoms after not appearing in pregame warmups. He previously missed nine games with a hamstring injury and two more due to illness.
More:Kansas fires back at viral video alleging Darryn Peterson was benched
When available, Peterson has been dynamic, averaging 20.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. His status for Saturday’s Top 10 showdown against Iowa State remains uncertain.
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