The Lions have proven they can win without their returning leading scorer Viney, as the forward has only appeared in two games this season, both losses. Meanwhile, the Lions have upset two ranked teams (UCLA and Saint Louis) without him.
In my personal opinion, I don't think it hurts the Lions too much to be without Drew next week. There is no question he is the most talented player on the team, but from what I've seen thus far this season the Lions have not found a way to work Drew into their style of play. The games the Lions have won they've won with exceptional defense, athleticism and speed, something they lose a bit of when Drew starts in the place of either Ayodeji Egbeyemi or Quincy Lawson. The Lions need enough time to work Drew into their game plan and rotation before his addition makes the team significantly better.
That being said, the Lions need Drew Viney on the court if they want to make a significant push at a WCC title. They've showed they can be a very good team without him, but their offense is flat at times and needs the punch that Drew can bring with his 20+ points per game. If he waits to come back when he is 100%, and has time to fully practice with the team, there is little doubt in my mind that he will be an exceptional addition to the team we all saw beat Saint Louis.
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