Balancing Act: Butler looking for more offense to go with strong defense in title game

Butler needs to bring back shooting touch vs. Duke

INDIANAPOLIS — Butler faces a delicate balancing act Monday night.

Yes, the philosophy of defense first has not changed, but the Bulldogs also understand that any chance of finishing this improbable run with a national championship will require better shooting.

Coach Brad Stevens acknowledged Sunday that if his team duplicates Saturday night’s 15 of 49 shooting performance against Duke, the Bulldogs will lose.

Even worse, Butler may be without its best inside player, Matt Howard, who missed the end of Saturday’s game with a concussion. Stevens says Howard’s availability will be a game-time decision.