Replacing Gordon Hayward: Butler's Incoming Players

Losing a lottery pick can hurt any team no matter who they are, but Butler losing Gordon Hayward to the draft was even more of a loss.

As a part of the team that shocked the world, Hayward's baby face was the icon behind it.

That will definitely be hard to replace.

However, someone has to do it, and they'll look to incoming freshman as well as players with minimal minutes last season to step up.

Khyle Marshall, a 6-6 power forward from Pembroke Pines, Florida, heads the Bulldogs' recruiting class.

Marshall isn't a huge presence inside, but he's known for his above the rim play and his energy towards rebounding. He is now the fifth player on the roster from somewhere other than Indiana.

After Marshall, comes Eric Fromm, the 6-9 power forward from Bloomington, Indiana. Fromm is a long forward that is very skilled that can get out on the break and play above the rim.

And, finally, the Bulldogs bring in Chrishawn Hopkins from Indianapolis. 

While his size isn't one of the great aspects of him, standing at 6-1, he is a very explosive guard that is very talented in the open court.

While he does need to get a lot stronger, his quickness can be a weapon for Stevens to use on occasion.

However, the recruiting class may not be able to have the huge impact that someone needs to have on this team to replace Hayward.

Look for Shelvin Mack to be the leader of this team at the point guard position and Matt Howard on the low.

But, if the Bulldogs plan to have a magical season like the last one, Howard needs to stay out of foul trouble in the big games.

Butler does have the talent to dig deep into the tournament again if all the pieces to the puzzle fall in place, but it will take the same effort they put into it last season.

They will definitely be at the top of the Horizon League, but nothing is guaranteed in March. 

Written By Collin O'Connor