Game 0.2 St. John’s vs Southern New Hampshire - preview/ game thread

The Johnnies have one more exhibition contest to go before getting set for a season opener against Merrimack in a week from Monday. The Red Storm got the good vibes going, but that’s to be expected — it’s exhibition play.

As you probably know, of course, that’s not always the case; and the Red Storm want to make this game a comfortable one, while trying to play a way they will play during the season. More below...

Game Information

Who: St. John’s Red Storm vs Southern New Hampshire Penmen (exhibition)

When: Saturday, October 29, 6 pm

Where: Carnesecca Arena, Queens, NY

How to watch: ESPN 3 for today’s game.

What to watch for

On the upside, St. John’s scored a lot against Adelphi on Wednesday. Many players got to get their feet wet on the floor (proverbially, there were no spills), which will be important given the way the Red Storm will need to play a little differently than last year.

It’s hard to say we saw what will be different this season... unless the Red Storm will actually be able to get to the rim and dunk at will. That’s the ideal, of course — playing at the rim is exciting and fun and takes advantage of this team’s athletes.

But against Division I competition, especially competition the caliber of the Big East or Iowa State or Florida State, those lanes may be harder to come by. What then?

The Johnnies started Rafael Pinzon with the idea of adding his ball movement and shooting to the team, but he struggled to make a big impact. While Montez Mathis may have shown an improved stroke, fans would love to see more shooting to keep opponents honest.

Additionally, the Red Storm at times left those bugaboo corner threes open in transition, or when the defense overhelped to one side. With a number of new players, that communication and timing will be a work in progress.

Let’s see what they have to show tonight.