“We do have a couple people out, but I feel like we all play the same way,” Rigsby said after the Bemidji State win. “It’s not really a big deal if you plug in another person here or there.”
The 6-6 Odukale from New Mexico State figures to be able to help the Gophers at all three perimeter spots when healthy this season.
Johnson might not have his perimeter rotation figured out — with Mitchell, Rigsby, Patterson, Odukale, sophomore Kadyn Betts and freshman Isaac Asuma — before the Nov. 6 season opener against Oral Roberts.
Betts had six points in 20 minutes starting on the wing. Asuma was one of the most impressive newcomers in his Gophers debut with eight points, eight assists and two blocks off the bench against Bemidji State.
Johnson said returning scoring leader and senior forward Dawson Garcia might not play more than 20 minutes against Hamline. The Gophers want to allow other newcomers to get comfortable in an extended role.
“Guys who are going to be able to provide something off the bench,” Johnson added. “Once you get into play early in the year, you’re probably going to start with more guys getting an opportunity. You’re looking at hopefully that nine or 10-mark [with the player rotation].”
