(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Austin Daye F, Sophomore, Gonzaga
The sophomore out of Irving, California has first round potential and has the all-around basketball skills for his size.
The problem lies with his maturity to put up the numbers on a night-to-night basis. Throughout the season, Daye was a very streaky player who showed he needs to work on his consistency and strength.
I believe if he stays one more season with the Zags, he will be the Player of the Year in the West Coast Conference, assuming Patrick Mills stays in the draft.
With all that said, we're looking at a future lottery pick if he stays in school.
Eric Devendorf G, Junior, Syracuse
After being suspended earlier in the season, Devendorf has a target on his back. However, there is no doubting his natural skills at the guard position, averaging 16 points a game with Jonny Flynn and Paul Harris both in the same lineup.
With Flynn leaning towards staying in the draft, this gives Devendorf a perfect opportunity to shine and get plenty of exposure playing in the Big East.
As it stands now, the Bay City native looks to go late in the second round, giving him plenty of reason to erase his bad name and star for the Orange next season.
Devan Downey G, Junior, South Carolina
Personally, I have seen Downey play many times live, and he is one of the most amazing players I’ve seen not only for his size, but his heart and passion for the game.
When the 5’9" transfer from Cincinnati steps on the court, all eyes are on him. Downey is not afraid to take it to the hole against guys a foot taller than him or pop a three from the outside.
After averaging 20 points, five assists, and three steals a game, this guy almost certainly will be drafted.
But after leading his team to 21 wins last year, I would love for this guy to stay one more year and build on what Coach Horn has started and lead South Carolina to the tournament next season.
Jodie Meeks SG, Junior, Kentucky
We all remember what Meeks did against Tennessee last season, torching them for 54 points, but I believe it would be in his best interest to return for his senior season under John Calipari.
After averaging 24 points a game, we know he is a serious offensive threat, but he needs to work on getting his team more involved by building his assist numbers up.
He needs to prove that his size won’t be a factor and continue to put up big numbers like he did to earn himself a first round pick.
Daniel Hackett PG, Junior, USC
His great size and playmaking ability aren’t enough to ensure him a draft pick this year. If he impresses scouts with his workouts, he could get picked up late in the second round.
However, Hackett has three options: return for his senior season, enter the draft, or go back home and play professionally in Italy.
It all depends on what he wants to do; I don’t know why anyone would want to rush out of Southern California, but maybe he’s ready to start getting paid for his play.
Luke Harangody F, Junior, Notre Dame
After putting up incredible numbers in college, there’s no question that this kid can play.
Scouts have a problem with his size, which is in between typical sizes for a power forward and center, much like Tyler Hansbrough. Known for his scoring and rebounding, Harangody must improve his speed and mid-range shooting if he wants to find himself on an NBA roster in 2010.
Most likely, he will be returning for his senior season to lead the Irish against the brutal Big East.
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