Two of the Colonial Athletic Association’s (CAA) top teams will face off this weekend when the Drexel Dragons host the Delaware Blue Hens. Both teams are coming off impressive victories in their conference openers, and they will be looking to continue their winning ways in this crucial matchup.
Drexel Dragons
The Dragons (10-5, 3-0 CAA) are led by senior guard Camren Wynter, who is averaging 19.1 points per game. Wynter is a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot and knock down shots from anywhere on the court. He is also a solid defender, averaging 2.3 steals per game.
In addition to Wynter, the Dragons have a number of other talented players. Senior forward James Butler is averaging 12.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, while senior guard Mate Okros is averaging 11.9 points and 4.3 assists per game.
The Dragons are a well-balanced team that can score from both inside and outside. They are also a very good defensive team, allowing just 67.4 points per game.
Delaware Blue Hens
The Blue Hens (11-4, 2-1 CAA) are led by senior forward Jameer Nelson Jr., who is averaging 18.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. Nelson is a physical presence inside the paint, and he is also a good passer.
In addition to Nelson, the Blue Hens have a number of other talented players. Senior guard Kevin Anderson is averaging 14.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, while senior guard Ryan Allen is averaging 11.1 points per game.
The Blue Hens are a very good offensive team, averaging 79.3 points per game. They are also a good defensive team, allowing just 66.9 points per game.
Prediction
This is a tough matchup to call, as both teams are very evenly matched. However, I give a slight edge to the Drexel Dragons. They have a more experienced team, and they are playing at home.
Prediction: Drexel Dragons 72, Delaware Blue Hens 68
Key Matchups
Camren Wynter vs. Jameer Nelson Jr.
This is the key matchup in this game. Wynter is a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot, while Nelson is a physical presence inside the paint. Whoever wins this matchup will likely lead their team to victory.
James Butler vs. Kevin Anderson
Butler is a solid all-around player who can score inside and out, while Anderson is a dangerous scorer from the outside. This is a matchup that could swing the game either way.
Mate Okros vs. Ryan Allen
Okros is a good passer who can create scoring opportunities for his teammates, while Allen is a good defender who can make life difficult for opposing guards. This is a matchup that could determine the tempo of the game.
X-Factors
Drexel’s bench
The Dragons have a deep bench that can provide them with a lot of scoring options. If they can get production from their bench, it will give them a big advantage in this game.
Delaware’s three-point shooting
The Blue Hens are a good three-point shooting team, and they can really hurt opponents when they get hot from beyond the arc. If they can knock down shots from deep, it will make it very difficult for Drexel to win this game.
Conclusion
This is a matchup between two of the CAA’s top teams. Both teams are coming off impressive victories in their conference openers, and they will be looking to continue their winning ways in this crucial matchup. I give a slight edge to the Drexel Dragons, but this is a game that could go either way.
