Self predicts breakout game for Kaufman-Renn against MTSU.

Bill Self predicts a breakout game for Trey Kaufman-Renn against Middle Tennessee State.

The Kansas Jayhawks head coach met with reporters on Thursday ahead of the MTSU matchup.

Self didn't just talk about Kaufman-Renn's potential.

He made it clear that the former Purdue forward is close to something bigger.

"I still think there's another step he can get to," Self said.

That comment came after Kansas' 95-65 win over Fordham on Nov. 2.

Kaufman-Renn finished that game with nine points, five rebounds and two assists in 23 minutes.

He missed Kansas' exhibition games while working his way into playing shape.

Despite the limited time on the court, Self has already noticed something unusual.

"He just knows how to play," Self said.

The coach explained that Kaufman-Renn was calling out plays during the Fordham game.

That happened even though he had only spent a short time with the team.

Self doesn't expect that adjustment period to last much longer.

According to a report from Through the Phog, Self indicated he doesn't expect to start Kaufman-Renn on the bench for too many more games.

The forward's basketball IQ is one reason Self is comfortable pushing him into a bigger role.

His passing and decision-making give Kansas another dimension in the frontcourt.

Kaufman-Renn transferred from Purdue, where he played in the national championship game.

That experience is rare on a roster full of new faces.

Self also sees another level in Melvin Council Jr., the experienced guard who transferred to Kansas.

Council finished the season opener with 10 points, seven assists and six rebounds.

"I think [Council] played pretty well tonight," Self said.

"I still think there's another step he can get to, and certainly with Kaufman-Renn there is as well."

Self added that the two newcomers are "fitting in nicely" but that the team isn't "totally comfortable with that yet."

The Jayhawks are still building chemistry with a largely new roster.

Kaufman-Renn's ability to connect with teammates was noticeable throughout his debut, according to KU Sports.

His understanding of the game stood out to Self and the coaching staff.

Now the question is how quickly that understanding translates into a permanent role.

Self's comments suggest the answer is: very quickly.

The MTSU game presents an opportunity for Kaufman-Renn to show what he can do with more minutes.

If Self's prediction holds, fans might see a different version of the Jayhawks' frontcourt.

Kansas has several talented players competing for minutes.

Finding the right combinations will take time, Self acknowledged.

But the coach sounds confident that Kaufman-Renn will force his way onto the floor.

"Those guys are fitting in nicely, but I still don't think we're totally comfortable with that yet," Self said.

The discomfort might not last long.

Self has a history of knowing when a player is ready.

Kaufman-Renn appears to be next in that line.

The Jayhawks face MTSU in what could be the forward's first real breakout game.

Self's prediction adds weight to the matchup.

Fans will be watching to see if Kaufman-Renn delivers.

The coach's track record suggests he usually gets these calls right.

Kaufman-Renn's size and skill set make him a matchup problem for most mid-major opponents.

MTSU will have to account for him from the opening tip.

If Self's plan works, Kaufman-Renn could be a central piece of Kansas' rotation by conference play.

The Jayhawks are looking to build momentum early in the season.

A strong performance from Kaufman-Renn would help accelerate that process.

Self's comments also signal confidence in the team's overall direction.

Having two experienced newcomers who can still improve is a luxury.

Council and Kaufman-Renn bring different strengths to the floor.

Council provides guard play, ball-handling and defensive versatility.