Bruce Pearl admits Wendell Green's absence 'hurt' Auburn

So much of what Auburn does well runs through their guard play, specifically junior guard Wendell Green Jr.. That’s why, after coming into the Tiger’s game against USC as a game-time decision, his injury was a big part of their loss to the Trojans in LA.

Bruce Pearl made it very clear that it played a part in the defeat during his postgame press conference. He said it put Auburn in a position where they weren’t able to handle or apply pressure as well on the road.

“I think having a healthy Wendell would have allowed us to attack the pressure and hopefully (handled) pressure,” said Pearl. “Look, no excuses. But obviously it hurt us.”

Pressure played a big role in how things turned out in the Galen Center this weekend. Being unable to apply pressure on USC allowed them to feel fairly comfortable as the Trojans only turned the ball over 12 times. Meanwhile, Green’s absence made things very difficult for Auburn as they coughed up 23 turnovers on the road. Green does average three turnovers a game on his own still. However, he would have provided what you’d expect to be a steadier hand in that environment.

Green Jr. started against USC after suffering a sprained ankle in their previous game against Georgia State. He was only able to give them 12 minutes, though, as he finished with just two points on 0-4 shooting. Green Jr. also managed two assists, two rebounds, a steal, and three turnovers.

Coming into that loss, Green Jr. was averaging 13.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. That was just a lot of production for Auburn to have to make up for from their injured lead guard. From here, all Pearl and the Tigers can do is help him rehab as best they can on the fly as they wrap up this two-game west coast road trip tomorrow night against Washington.