2009-2010 Syracuse Predictions
2008-09 Record: (28-10, 11-7 Big East)
Coach: Jim Boeheim (34th year, 799-288 at Syracuse)
Assistants: Bernie Fine, Mike Hopkins, Rob Murphy
Ret. Starters/Lost: 3/2

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Overview: The Orange return just two starters and lose Jonny Flynn, Eric Devendorf and Paul Harris. That’s an entire backcourt, but fortunately for the Cuse, they just re-load. Brandon Triche (6-4, 195) comes in from upstate New York and give them a big, physical point guard to replace the quicker Flynn. Senior Andy Rautins (6-5, 205) returns after an injury-plagued career. He was an excellent sixth man last season, pouring in 10.4ppg and finishing second in assists. The most impressive newcomer is junior Wes Johnson (6-7, 198, 12.4ppg, 4pg), a transfer from Iowa State who gives the team a taller version of Paul Harris, though he has to improve his shooting (39.6% FG). Up front, Rick Jackson (6-9, 240) returns after averaging 8.3ppg and 5.8rpg. He’s a dependable post player, but a terrible foul shooter (48%). At center, senior Arinze Onuaku (6-9, 275) was hampered by knee problems last year, averaging10.3ppg and 7.3rpg, but his numbers fell after a low start. Off the bench, Boeheim usually uses about 7 or 8 players anyway. Kris Joseph (6-7, 220) and sophomore guard Scoop Jardine (5.5ppg) are quality backups. They also brought in James Southerland (6-8, 190) out of Queens, who should be apart of the rotation.

Outlook: Syracuse returns a talented team, despite losing Flynn. But at some point, they’ll miss the explosiveness of Flynn along with Harris. The frontcourt is solid, but the lack athleticism in the post.

This Big East conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college basketball betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com