Syracuse Orange Starting Lineup in 2013-2014
Every big time program goes through it. Players leave for the NBA. Plus, the occasional player or players graduate. Syracuse is no different heading into next year. Michael Carter-Williams is leaving early for the pros and Brandon Triche is lost to graduation. Who fills in? Below is the projected starting lineup for Jim Boeheim's group in 2013-2014, the first season in the ACC, some of which was a part of the Final Four in Atlanta this past season.
PG: Tyler Ennis, St. Benedict’s Prep
Tremendous passing ability with good dribbling and shooting skills. He should have no problems coming in and staring right away for Jim Boeheim and the Orange in year one of the ACC.
SG: Trevor Cooney, sophomore
Cooney went through a lot during his first year but grew tremendously. His coming out party was against Georgetown this year at Madison Square Garden in the semifinals of the Big East tournament where he set the tone with 3-pointers. Cooney will be a nice four-year player at Syracuse. Don’t forget about his relentless defense. Once his shot comes through consistently, look out.
SF: C.J. Fair, senior
Fair was the best, most consistent player for the Orange during their Final Four run in 2012-2013. Expect him to put another five to 10 pounds of muscle on. His biggest needs for improvement are being able to go to his right and getting quicker on offense and defense. That is why he is NOT NBA-ready right now. On the positive side, Fair stretches defenses and provides more of a mis-match now because he can drain jump shots and 3-pointers.
PF: Rakeem Christmas, junior
Christmas probably has the most raw talent and upside on the team. He just needs to get after it more. His presence is crucial if Syracuse is to return to the Final Four. A double- double should be attainable almost every game if he gets better offensively and shows more heart and effort.
C: DaJuan Coleman, sophomore
Coleman missed a lot of time due to a knee procedure and like many Syracuse big men, had a hard time adjusting to Big East play and how to man the zone. He should be a four-year player for Jim Boeheim. Expect him to grow big time in the off-season with the coaching staff and improve his raw footwork and offensive skills. A more controlled game and knowing where to be down low on both ends of the floor are Coleman’s biggest weaknesses right now.
By: Mike Lindsley, "Mid-Day with Mike," 1-4, Yankees pre/post game host on 104.5 The Team ESPN Radio. Follow him on Twitter @MikeLSports.