Different coaches, across all sports, have differing philosophies regarding substitution. The Twins Rocco Baldelli, at one end of the spectrum, is clearly an advocate for liberal use of his bench, presumably with the twin goals of not over-working his starters, and keeping his bench “ready” for when they are needed. At the other end of the spectrum are former T-Wolves coach Thibadeaux and the late Gophers’ coach Bill Mussleman. Tibs wanted his best players on the court as much as possible, and Mussleman was clear that actually fouling out was the only reason for a substitution.
Coach McCutcheon seems on the Thibadeaux –Mussleman end of the spectrum. I understand that he is trying to integrate 3 new players into his “Starting 8,” and is eager to maximize their time together in a competitive environment. But I worry about Wenaas, Miyabe and Rubright getting the experience they’ll need if called on later, and Maryland seemed like a chance to give them some.