[sammybuckeye13Participant]

Disclaimer: I graduated from SU last year, and while I am bias towards Cuse’s success, I am as critical of our players as I am supportive, depending on how they perform.

Syracuse is always one of the more puzzling teams when it comes to pro prospects; we rarely have anyone projected to go in in the lotto going into the season but this could be the third draft in five years in which we produce a top 10 pick. Here’s my analysis on our top pro prospects, all of whom are hard to get a handle on. Forget Christmas, Coleman and Cooney, who despite his 42% mark from three and bullish D isn’t on the first round radar as a one-dimensional 6-2 SG. Here are the guys I feel I have to write about: 

Jerami Grant 

Buy, buy, BUY, as they say on Wall Street. We would have been satisfied with Grant fulfilling the sixth man role this season but he already looks the part of an NBA wing in terms of both physical tools and skill set. At 6-9/210 he can easily play either forward spot. It’s hard to tell which he’s more comfortable at — as much as scouts and GM’s will like position him at SF, he’s more likely a PF, as best evidenced by the fact that he’s only attempted 4 threes on the season, making none, and he isn’t lightning quick — and that’s not a bad thing at all. Grant has astounded this year with a well rounded scoring repertoire that includes smoothly attacking the basket (6 FTA in 28.8 mpg) and, of the utmost importance as far as the transition to the next level is concerned, a confident and reliable if not necessarily beautiful pull-up J. He’s a very good rebounder and a menace on D. I was skeptical when the site placed him as high as #9 (currently #10), but that now seems accurate. His relentless disposition combined with top flight athleticism and a mature, entirely unexpected scoring arsenal suggests he’s worthy of a lottery pick in this exceptional draft. He’s now become a veritable workhorse, playing all 40 minutes (12, 12, 2 blocks) against UNC, and his ability to score in one-on-one scenarios, not just opportunistically, is one of the main reasons for the Orange’s 16-0 start, thoroughly preventing opponents from doubling up on Fair and Cooney. Regarding his position, I do indeed think he’s better suited as a lithe, long, blow-by PF rather than a swingman. Very reminiscent of Thaddeus Young at Georgia Tech. Assuming he puts on 15 pounds over the next couple years, I’ll confidently stick to that comparison. 

C.J. Fair

A fan favorite since his freshman season, Fair has not disappointed in terms of performance but I’m becoming increasingly dubious regarding his pro potential. The epitome of a seasoned senior leader, the college game appears to come easily to Fair, which has engendered an overly casual attitude. He is an assertive player by nature but because he can score almost effortlessly in the paint against smaller and inexperienced wings at this point he sometimes goes long stretches in which he doesn’t do a lot of sprinting, let’s just say. His 3PT% has practically halved (47% to 28%), his TO’s have basically doubled (1.6 to 3.0), and you can’t really chalk that up to usage rate because there hasn’t been a real increase in that department. He’s just getting a bit lazy. That said, you’re still looking at a forward with a good, not definite but good chance of becoming a long-term starter in the NBA. He’s upped his scoring yet again to 17.4, rebounding is decent at 5.8 (a slight drop-off from last year’s 7.0), and he’s a disciplined defender with long arms and great instincts (1.6 steals). His mid-range jumper is in the top tier of this class, an asset that assures a 6-8 SF will be able to put the ball in the basket at the next level, and despite his occasionally lackadaisical attitude he’s no Kris Joseph; he demonstrates a drive to win night in and night out and he’s the anchor of a 16-0 team. Given Duke’s opposite trajectory and its star freshman’s recent struggles, an ACC POY victory over Jabari is not out of the question. The tools are there, too. He’s 6-8, bouncy and long, a good ball-handler and innately perceptive scorer. His resume, which includes "best player on a Final Four team," with perhaps another in his future, is gold. Hard to imagine him slipping into the second round. Resembles Jeff Green and Trevor Ariza. Khris Middleton is a low-end comp, in which case you’re getting a solid rotation guy at the very least. 

Tyler Ennis

Maybe the most pleasant surprise in this lauded freshman class, but #12 in this year’s draft, as predicted by this site? Please. And this isn’t me wanting him to stick around; obviously I have no bearing on his decision. He’s simply not ready for the NBA. So let me quickly rattle of the weakness: he’s of adequate size but not particularly tall, only mildly athletic and a mediocre long range shooter at best. It’s very hard to see him becoming a 16-18 PPG guy in the pros, meaning he’ll have to fulfill his potential as premiere floor general. That said, he’s given us every reason to believe he’ll make good on that label. He’s led a power conference team to one of its best starts in history due to his exceptional passing ability — 5.7 APG against a meager 1.4 TO in 33 MPG — and his 2.6 SPG tally is eye-popping. He has a great feel for the game and he’s a crafty scorer with a terrific floater that appears to be his signature, as well as great instincts at and around the rim. I wonder, though, given his athletic limitations, especially in terms of quickness, if he will be anything more than a game manager in the NBA. He has done a great job exercising his size advantage against smaller PG’s, which may have misled some into thinking he’s physically dominant at his position. He’s not. He’s definitely closer to Jeff Teague than Kendall Marshall, but I’m reserving judgment on him as a legit pro prospect in this year’s loaded draft.

[samosasParticipant]

 Besides Carmelo, has Syracuse produced any good pros lately?

[samosasParticipant]

 Besides Carmelo, has Syracuse produced any good pros lately?

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[samosasParticipant]

 Totally forgot about MCW, he was demolishing it earlier this year.

[Moon RiverParticipant]

He is no Kris Joseph is an awesome line.  Kudos.  Love your take on Grant as well and hoping Jimmy B can convince Tyler that another year in college will help (both him and the Orange).

Derrick Coleman, MCW (jury still out), Sherman Douglas, Rony Seikly, John Wallace and Billy Owens all had decent NBA careers but not as much as they were hyped up to be.  Etan Thomas had a surprisingly long career as did  Hakeen Warrick.   But overall, given the talent, or perceived talent on the hill in Syracuse, the NBA production is not all that.

BTW- graduate of SU as well, but long before you..

[Moon RiverParticipant]

He is no Kris Joseph is an awesome line.  Kudos.  Love your take on Grant as well and hoping Jimmy B can convince Tyler that another year in college will help (both him and the Orange).

Derrick Coleman, MCW (jury still out), Sherman Douglas, Rony Seikly, John Wallace and Billy Owens all had decent NBA careers but not as much as they were hyped up to be.  Etan Thomas had a surprisingly long career as did  Hakeen Warrick.   But overall, given the talent, or perceived talent on the hill in Syracuse, the NBA production is not all that.

BTW- graduate of SU as well, but long before you..

[goldie92689Participant]

The idea that Cuse does not produce NBA stars is very over stated. Here is why; Cuse almost NEVER gets top 10 calibur one and down type recruit. Cuse makes its cuts by developing athletes. That is they recruit nba size then typically develop them into borderline nba prospects. Even players like Waiters and MCW were after thoughts on this site until metoric rises. MCW signed as a junior and sat behind waiters, triche and Jardine.They load up on those 20-100 with real size. Then develop them over 3-5 years. Giving players chances to play different roles over their matriculation through the program. At the same time they develop 4 star players, they always get a player 15-20 that buys in to limited playing time like MCW or Roberson. Compare this to Kentucky that recruits the top 15. Most of which are one/two and done players who are already slated for employee roles. 

[goldie92689Participant]

The idea that Cuse does not produce NBA stars is very over stated. Here is why; Cuse almost NEVER gets top 10 calibur one and down type recruit. Cuse makes its cuts by developing athletes. That is they recruit nba size then typically develop them into borderline nba prospects. Even players like Waiters and MCW were after thoughts on this site until metoric rises. MCW signed as a junior and sat behind waiters, triche and Jardine.They load up on those 20-100 with real size. Then develop them over 3-5 years. Giving players chances to play different roles over their matriculation through the program. At the same time they develop 4 star players, they always get a player 15-20 that buys in to limited playing time like MCW or Roberson. Compare this to Kentucky that recruits the top 15. Most of which are one/two and done players who are already slated for employee roles. 

[RUDEBOY_Participant]

Great Write Up!!!

Alot of people Fail to give Boeheim the credit he deserves as a coach..Every year for over 3 decades he produces competitive and winning teams..Despite having less than 20 McDonalds All Americans during his tenure.

 Jerami has the talent to become a 1st rounder…But i dont think he’s a lottery pick in this loaded draft….There are at least 20 better prospects than him……

Dont Count Out Rakeem Christmas….He’s raw offensively,undisciplined and doesnt play smart all the time..But his length,frame,ability to finish at the rim,defensive potential and athleticism will get him some nba looks…

C J Fair could be a sleeper…

 

[RUDEBOY_Participant]

Great Write Up!!!

Alot of people Fail to give Boeheim the credit he deserves as a coach..Every year for over 3 decades he produces competitive and winning teams..Despite having less than 20 McDonalds All Americans during his tenure.

 Jerami has the talent to become a 1st rounder…But i dont think he’s a lottery pick in this loaded draft….There are at least 20 better prospects than him……

Dont Count Out Rakeem Christmas….He’s raw offensively,undisciplined and doesnt play smart all the time..But his length,frame,ability to finish at the rim,defensive potential and athleticism will get him some nba looks…

C J Fair could be a sleeper…

 

[Bmore_DCParticipant]

 I hate the knock on Cuse putting out poor NBA players…

How about the fact that we take average players and turn them into pro prospects? All Jimmy can do is develop his guys the best he can for SYRACUSE and their system. Whether they work out in the NBA is up to that player and his new coaches/trainers. 

I think Grant will go somewhere near the lottery (he deserves it), he projects to be a beast on the wing. 

I slightly disgree that Ennis isnt ready for the NBA (that could be your Cuse bias) but to me, his game translates VERY well. His game isnt predicated on athleticism. Hes an old-school traditional point guard who can pass, shoot, and get to the rim. I see him as an Andre Miller type guy who will be around for a long time. 

[Bmore_DCParticipant]

 I hate the knock on Cuse putting out poor NBA players…

How about the fact that we take average players and turn them into pro prospects? All Jimmy can do is develop his guys the best he can for SYRACUSE and their system. Whether they work out in the NBA is up to that player and his new coaches/trainers. 

I think Grant will go somewhere near the lottery (he deserves it), he projects to be a beast on the wing. 

I slightly disgree that Ennis isnt ready for the NBA (that could be your Cuse bias) but to me, his game translates VERY well. His game isnt predicated on athleticism. Hes an old-school traditional point guard who can pass, shoot, and get to the rim. I see him as an Andre Miller type guy who will be around for a long time. 

[sammybuckeye13Participant]

I don’t necessarily disagree. It’s funny how prospects who seem to be the most "solid," like Ennis, actually turn out to be the biggest question marks come draft time. Andre Miller is a great comp, but let’s not forget Miller honed his game over 4 years at Utah and played in a national title game. I think much of his success as a floor general has to be attributed to his growth through that major senior season. "Old-school traditional point guard who can pass, shoot, and get to the rim…who will be around for a long time" is a good distillation of Ennis, but without a better/more reliable jumper, especially off the bounce and from range, he won’t be nearly as effective as he could be. Old school traditional point guards who last over a decade in the league as a firm starter tend to have cut their teeth in college hoops for more than a year, so I hope, for Ennis’s sake, he decides to give it one more go ’round.

[sammybuckeye13Participant]

I don’t necessarily disagree. It’s funny how prospects who seem to be the most "solid," like Ennis, actually turn out to be the biggest question marks come draft time. Andre Miller is a great comp, but let’s not forget Miller honed his game over 4 years at Utah and played in a national title game. I think much of his success as a floor general has to be attributed to his growth through that major senior season. "Old-school traditional point guard who can pass, shoot, and get to the rim…who will be around for a long time" is a good distillation of Ennis, but without a better/more reliable jumper, especially off the bounce and from range, he won’t be nearly as effective as he could be. Old school traditional point guards who last over a decade in the league as a firm starter tend to have cut their teeth in college hoops for more than a year, so I hope, for Ennis’s sake, he decides to give it one more go ’round.

[Bmore_DCParticipant]

 I agree with most everything you just said, but Andre Miller did NOT look like Ennis does as a freshman. If Ennis feels like he can go lottery, then he should. Because IMO playing in college delays your progression as a player. NBA coaches will teach you how to shoot. Ennis has all the things you cant "learn". 

As a Cuse fan, id love for him to stay, but i think hes a safe pick for a team willing to stash him for a year or 2. 

[Bmore_DCParticipant]

 I agree with most everything you just said, but Andre Miller did NOT look like Ennis does as a freshman. If Ennis feels like he can go lottery, then he should. Because IMO playing in college delays your progression as a player. NBA coaches will teach you how to shoot. Ennis has all the things you cant "learn". 

As a Cuse fan, id love for him to stay, but i think hes a safe pick for a team willing to stash him for a year or 2. 

[machu46Participant]

I’ve watched/attended every Syracuse game for the past 4 or 5 years, and I agree for the most part about your assessment of the three guys you highlighted.

I don’t think Ennis is a lottery pick this year at all.  Struggles to finish inside (likely due in large part to his lack of athleticism and just average size), shoots a good percentage from 3, but only shoots when left completely wide open, so it’s hard to tell if he’s really a good shooter or not, will likely be a below average defender at the next level (again, due to the size/athleticism), and he’s a good, not great passer.  His ball security is among the best that I’ve ever seen.  I’ve never felt so safe having the ball in someone’s hands the way I do with Ennis, but he doesn’t have that crossover that he can use to beat his man at will.  I think he’ll struggle in the NBA and either be a backup PG or end up having a great career overseas.  Don’t think he’ll ever be a starter unless he improves in a lot of areas.

The one thing I disagree on is CJ Fair.  I don’t think he’ll be a 1st round pick.  He’s a 6-7/6-8 forward that doesn’t have the skills or lateral quickness to play SF, but doesn’t have the size to play PF.  His ball-handling is simply poor.  I’m not sure why you think he’s a good ball-handler.  He turns it over almost as much as MCW did last year despite not having the ball in his hands nearly as much, and he’s pretty much a non-existant passer.  I don’t really see a role for him in the NBA.  His ability to score within the flow of the offense and knock down the mid-range jumper are his only real NBA skills, and I think he’ll struggle to defend SFs and PFs, and isn’t a good enough scorer to outweigh his weaknesses handling and passing the ball.

I love both of these guys to death.  Two of my favorite players that I’ve had the pleasure to watch at Syracuse.  But I don’t think there’s a chance that CJ will ever be a starter in the NBA, and while I think Ennis could possibly get to that point someday, I don’t think he’s good enough RIGHT NOW to be that player.  We have to see how well he develops.

I love Grant as a prospect though.  I think he can be a great face-up PF at the next level once he bulks up a bit.

 

 

 

 

[machu46Participant]

I’ve watched/attended every Syracuse game for the past 4 or 5 years, and I agree for the most part about your assessment of the three guys you highlighted.

I don’t think Ennis is a lottery pick this year at all.  Struggles to finish inside (likely due in large part to his lack of athleticism and just average size), shoots a good percentage from 3, but only shoots when left completely wide open, so it’s hard to tell if he’s really a good shooter or not, will likely be a below average defender at the next level (again, due to the size/athleticism), and he’s a good, not great passer.  His ball security is among the best that I’ve ever seen.  I’ve never felt so safe having the ball in someone’s hands the way I do with Ennis, but he doesn’t have that crossover that he can use to beat his man at will.  I think he’ll struggle in the NBA and either be a backup PG or end up having a great career overseas.  Don’t think he’ll ever be a starter unless he improves in a lot of areas.

The one thing I disagree on is CJ Fair.  I don’t think he’ll be a 1st round pick.  He’s a 6-7/6-8 forward that doesn’t have the skills or lateral quickness to play SF, but doesn’t have the size to play PF.  His ball-handling is simply poor.  I’m not sure why you think he’s a good ball-handler.  He turns it over almost as much as MCW did last year despite not having the ball in his hands nearly as much, and he’s pretty much a non-existant passer.  I don’t really see a role for him in the NBA.  His ability to score within the flow of the offense and knock down the mid-range jumper are his only real NBA skills, and I think he’ll struggle to defend SFs and PFs, and isn’t a good enough scorer to outweigh his weaknesses handling and passing the ball.

I love both of these guys to death.  Two of my favorite players that I’ve had the pleasure to watch at Syracuse.  But I don’t think there’s a chance that CJ will ever be a starter in the NBA, and while I think Ennis could possibly get to that point someday, I don’t think he’s good enough RIGHT NOW to be that player.  We have to see how well he develops.

I love Grant as a prospect though.  I think he can be a great face-up PF at the next level once he bulks up a bit.

 

 

 

 

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