I think I see what you're saying, but I'm not sure this makes any sense. Of course there's pressure; that's the case with every player on every team everywhere. Are you saying he's struggling because the offense is dysfunctional? OK, that's a point, but it doesn't explain why he's missing open looks that he'd have made blindfolded last year.
Battle is not comfortable playing at the moment. I haven't talked to him, I haven't been to practice....so I really don't know why. But you see the same thing I do. He is not playing like he can.
I'm sure the injury, time off practice is a major component. Pressure is a million per cent not equal on players in any sport. Some absolutely have more responsibility in the outcome of the game and they realize it, want it. When they are not comfortable for whatever the reason...they play like Battle has this season. At the least they all have different responsibilities, hence different pressures. But if the scorer can't score...you probably can't win because you only got one proven scorer. (That is not the same pressure for everybody...kids know who is who and who does what...roles)
Players do have expectations within the team. Coach to Jordan Murphy: "Jordan you can't play
32 minutes and get 3 rebounds, we can't win. You are the leading rebounder in the conference.
We are counting on you for double figure rebounds on a bad night. Your teammates depend on you, look to you for that. If you don't deliver then they get nervous about what's wrong and they have doubt. Pretty soon it's contagious. Nobody is better at rebounding than you...you gotta be consistent on the boards for us to win." Is that pressure? Or is that inspiration? It is reality...that's what will take for our team to have a chance to win.
Same with each guy, whatever their responsibilities. For me: It would start with Cooper and defense. Contest shooters, hustle. You are at the top of our defense. Your teammates see you.
If you are lazy on defense...they will be too. If you work your butt off...they will too. Doesn't happen...we can't win. That's what I need from you.
Scoring conversations much the same....I don't know the number but I do know if Battle isn't our leading scorer or very close...we ain't winning. Yes, that's pressure. When a player capable of those roles is comfortable, bought in, they want it...it's what they do best. When they aren't comfortable and something is wrong .... they play like Battle. I'm saying it could be he is trying to do too much and ending up with nothing. Too much because reality has hit him sitting and watching...he realizes he is all we got on the offensive end.
That help explain it?