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Butler could play returning guard as primary ball handler

Butler v Marquette

LEXINGTON, KY - MARCH 23: Roosevelt Jones #21 of the Butler Bulldogs reacts after a foul is called on him against Trent Lockett #22 of the Marquette Golden Eagles in the second half during the third round of the 2013 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Rupp Arena on March 23, 2013 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

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Butler is coming off of a 14-17 season and could use the return of Roosevelt Jones, who is coming off of a medical redshirt year after a broken wrist during the team’s exhibition trip to Austalia.

The 6-foot-4 gritty and versatile Jones should give the Butler backcourt a major lift this season and according to a story from Michael Pointer of the Indianapolis Star, Jones could be the team’s primary ball handler.

At least interim head coach, assistant coach Chris Holtmann thinks Jones could have the ball in his hands quite a bit.

“He could be the primary ball handler for us,” Holtmann said in the story. “If he’s not playing the point, he’s going to be out there with the ball in his hands a lot. He’s a terrific passer. He’s got great touch and he’s big and strong. It’s hard to take the ball from him and we’re a little thin on the perimeter.”

Jones also sounded receptive to the idea and it could be something Butler uses to upgrade over retuning senior Alex Barlow, who isn’t nearly the playmaker or overall player as Jones.

“We’re not that deep in the guard spot,” Jones said in the story. “I know I’m going to have to play the (point guard) spot some and I’m comfortable with that.”

It should help Butler immensely to have Jones back, he averaged 10.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.

Coupled with Kellen Dunham on the wing, the Bulldogs some have some dangerous players on the perimeter this season.

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