There’s no denying that Darryn Peterson is one of the most electrifying freshmen in the country. When he’s on the floor, he doesn’t just play-he commands attention. But lately, that presence has been sporadic, and it’s raising eyebrows across the college basketball landscape.
Peterson has missed nearly half of Kansas’ games this season-11 out of 24-with a mix of hamstring and quad issues, along with a few illnesses sprinkled in. It’s not ideal for any player, let alone a projected No. 1 pick. And it’s led to some pointed commentary, including from former college coach Bruce Pearl, who didn’t hold back when asked about Peterson’s NBA future.
“If I was coaching in the NBA, I’m sorry, I would have some concerns,” Pearl said during a recent segment. “Missing 11 out of 24 games for hamstring and quad pulls and illnesses... just a long list of different things.”
Now, Pearl’s no stranger to hot takes, and while he’s not coaching in the NBA-or anywhere else right now-his comments do reflect a question that’s been quietly circulating among scouts and fans alike: Is Peterson’s availability something to worry about long-term?
It’s a fair question. But it’s also one that deserves some perspective.
Enter Jamal Mashburn, a former NBA All-Star who’s been through the grind and understands what it takes to make it in the league. Mashburn offered a more measured take, one rooted in experience and patience.
“I’m not necessarily concerned,” Mashburn said. “I’d rather have him on the court and let him adjust to his body and what he can actually do.
He’s a premier talent. When he’s on the court, he’s probably the best player on the court at any particular moment.”
That last point is key. When Peterson plays, he’s not just good-he’s dominant.
His combination of size, skill, and feel for the game is rare, even among elite freshmen. And while the injuries are frustrating, they don’t appear to be the kind of chronic issues that derail careers.
This feels more like a young player still learning how to manage his body through the rigors of a high-major season.
And let’s not forget: he’s 19. This is part of the process.
Kansas head coach Bill Self knows that better than most. With two national championships under his belt, Self understands that March is what matters. Right now, the focus isn’t on padding stats or chasing awards-it’s about getting Peterson as close to 100 percent as possible for when the lights shine brightest.
Peterson doesn’t need to be great every night. He needs to be great in the biggest moments. And if he’s healthy when those moments arrive, Kansas is going to be a nightmare matchup for anyone.
In the meantime, the Jayhawks have managed just fine without him. That’s perhaps the most encouraging part of this whole situation.
The rest of the roster has stepped up, and Self’s growing trust in his depth could pay major dividends down the stretch. When March rolls around and rotations tighten, Kansas won’t just be relying on one star-they’ll be bringing a battle-tested group into the tournament.
So yes, there are questions. And yes, it’s fair to wonder how Peterson’s body will hold up over the course of an 82-game NBA season.
But right now, the focus is on the next few weeks. If Peterson is healthy when it matters most, Kansas is going to be in the thick of it-and he’s still every bit the No. 1 pick talent people believed he was from day one.