Off-season talk

M

MakingPlays

Well-known member
So with the season likely over within the next couple weeks (assuming an NIT invite) how does everyone see this off-season playing out?  I think with if all the key pieces return this team could possibly be considered a pre-season top 25 team and top 3 pre-season team in the Big East.

Potential Transfers/Early depatures.  

1. Isiah Moore -  His situation has been a little odd, he had the weird suspension about a month ago, and nobody knew exactly what he did or how long he would be out, turned out to only miss one game.  Then the last game of the season was yanked from the game after 3 minutes and never returned, obvious that he pushed a button that CMA didn't like.  Then the latest thing with the tier 1 personnel testing positive, and him somehow being connected and being the only person to sit out.  Usually when there's several things going on with a guy, parties tend to go their own way in the off-season.  Obviously, hope I'm completely off base here, he's arguably one of the most important pieces that could return next season.

2. John McGriff - Played sparingly this year, was the odd man out in the guard rotation.  With Posh probably demanding 30+ MPG next year and with Pinzon coming in, it's possible he could look at next year's depth chart and choose to drop down to a mid-major where he can have a more pivotal role.

3. Josh Roberts - Started a lot of games, but role was limited, he only played 10 MPG.  If staff chooses to persure another big man this off-season, plus if Moore comes back and if Nyiwe figures to be a contributor, I could see a mutually agreed departure.

4. Esahia Nyiwe - We've heard very little about him.  No idea how he's looked at practice or anything.  Already had a bit of an odd situation with Texas Tech and flirted with just going pro. If he hasn't looked good at practice thus far and with the glaring need for a big man that can contribute next year, if a scholarship is needed to pursue someone else in the off-season, I could see staff moving on here.

5. Julian Chamagnie - I've only seen him on one mock draft site as a late 2nd rounder, most of the big draft sites don't ever have him on their top 100 board, however that's never stopped some guys in his position to leave early.  His brother has been vocal about them wanting to make a decision together this off-season, not exactly sure what that means, hopefully it's not both of them entering the draft together, Julian has so much to gain from returning and working on his game.  I think he's likely to return but I've been wrong on predicting if a guy will stay or leave for the draft before.

Additions

1. Big Man - I think this is the most likely role to get filled if a scholarship becomes open.  As I posted above I think there's uncertainty with all 3 of the big men that are suppose to return, I could see staff looking at JUCO's or Grad Transfers here if a big man spot does become availble.  

2. Guard - If McGriff leaves, I could see staff going for another primary ball handler,  Pinzon is more of a combo, wouldn't be a bad move to have another guy that can handle the ball in case of injuries.

3. Justin Champaignie - This is just a wild dream thought here, however it's not that craziest thought in the world.  Both Julian and Justin have been vocal on how hard it's been adjusting without each other and with Justin recently said that he and Julian would make an off-season decision together.  Pitt is a sinking ship right now, losing 10 of it's last 12 games, plus it's 2nd and 3rd best players before the season even ended.  Capel has kinda lost control of that situation and he's going to be under a very hot seat next year (if they choose not to fire him this off-season).  Justin without a doubt is probably going to test the draft waters and get feedback, his stock has dropped the last month or so, some of the updated mock drafts have not listed him. Could he pull an LJ Figueroa and if he doesn't go in the draft elect to transfer in order for a shot to play in the NCAA in his potential last year?  If so, St. John's would be the overwhelming favorite to land him.

 
 
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I'm not sure where the ships are going to come from but we desperately need some size up front.  I don't think Nywie is going anywhere, I just think he wasn't yet ready to run Mike's system this late in the year.  That said he's not big enough to be a true post guy.  Stanley seems bulky and strong but is maybe 6'8" it seems and doesn't fill that need.  

Things will work themselves out.  I'd like to add a true big guy and one more scoring combo guard. 

The Moore situation is perplexing.  I agree something is odd but I do t want to speculate. I do think we will lose one or two and hopefully upgrade from there.  
 
Making Plays" post=425545 said:
So with the season likely over within the next couple weeks (assuming an NIT invite) how does everyone see this off-season playing out?  I think with if all the key pieces return this team could possibly be considered a pre-season top 25 team and top 3 pre-season team in the Big East.

Potential Transfers/Early depatures.  

1. Isiah Moore -  His situation has been a little odd, he had the weird suspension about a month ago, and nobody knew exactly what he did or how long he would be out, turned out to only miss one game.  Then the last game of the season was yanked from the game after 3 minutes and never returned, obvious that he pushed a button that CMA didn't like.  Then the latest thing with the tier 1 personnel testing positive, and him somehow being connected and being the only person to sit out.  Usually when there's several things going on with a guy, parties tend to go their own way in the off-season.  Obviously, hope I'm completely off base here, he's arguably one of the most important pieces that could return next season.

2. John McGriff - Played sparingly this year, was the odd man out in the guard rotation.  With Posh probably demanding 30+ MPG next year and with Pinzon coming in, it's possible he could look at next year's depth chart and choose to drop down to a mid-major where he can have a more pivotal role.

3. Josh Roberts - Started a lot of games, but role was limited, he only played 10 MPG.  If staff chooses to persure another big man this off-season, plus if Moore comes back and if Nyiwe figures to be a contributor, I could see a mutually agreed departure.

4. Esahia Nyiwe - We've heard very little about him.  No idea how he's looked at practice or anything.  Already had a bit of an odd situation with Texas Tech and flirted with just going pro. If he hasn't looked good at practice thus far and with the glaring need for a big man that can contribute next year, if a scholarship is needed to pursue someone else in the off-season, I could see staff moving on here.

5. Julian Chamagnie - I've only seen him on one mock draft site as a late 2nd rounder, most of the big draft sites don't ever have him on their top 100 board, however that's never stopped some guys in his position to leave early.  His brother has been vocal about them wanting to make a decision together this off-season, not exactly sure what that means, hopefully it's not both of them entering the draft together, Julian has so much to gain from returning and working on his game.  I think he's likely to return but I've been wrong on predicting if a guy will stay or leave for the draft before.

Additions

1. Big Man - I think this is the most likely role to get filled if a scholarship becomes open.  As I posted above I think there's uncertainty with all 3 of the big men that are suppose to return, I could see staff looking at JUCO's or Grad Transfers here if a big man spot does become availble.  

2. Guard - If McGriff leaves, I could see staff going for another primary ball handler,  Pinzon is more of a combo, wouldn't be a bad move to have another guy that can handle the ball in case of injuries.

3. Justin Champaignie - This is just a wild dream thought here, however it's not that craziest thought in the world.  Both Julian and Justin have been vocal on how hard it's been adjusting without each other and with Justin recently said that he and Julian would make an off-season decision together.  Pitt is a sinking ship right now, losing 10 of it's last 12 games, plus it's 2nd and 3rd best players before the season even ended.  Capel has kinda lost control of that situation and he's going to be under a very hot seat next year (if they choose not to fire him this off-season).  Justin without a doubt is probably going to test the draft waters and get feedback, his stock has dropped the last month or so, some of the updated mock drafts have not listed him. Could he pull an LJ Figueroa and if he doesn't go in the draft elect to transfer in order for a shot to play in the NCAA in his potential last year?  If so, St. John's would be the overwhelming favorite to land him.

If the transfer portal list that Moose posted is accurate, Nyiwe already listed there. 
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Monte" post=425551 said:
If the transfer portal list that Moose posted is accurate, Nyiwe already listed there. 
 
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It doesn't look like it was ever updated to reflect where he landed after Texas Tech.
 
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L J S A" post=425554 said:
Monte" post=425551 said:
If the transfer portal list that Moose posted is accurate, Nyiwe already listed there. 

 
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It doesn't look like it was ever updated to reflect where he landed after Texas Tech.


Maybe he never really landed here. Maybe it's all a figment of our imagination. Like a Twilight Zone episode  lol 
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The reality is that with these new transfer rules, we have to be prepared for anybody and everybody to leave. A saving grace is CMA seems to create a family environment which could make kids feel they have a home here. 

But just thinking, Roberts, Earlington, Williams, Moore and Cole. These will all be seniors next year and most of them won't start. Will they be comfortable accepting that role? Would they want to be somewhere else where they can start and showcase their skills?

Right now based on no knowledge I'm only feeling confident in Posh, Wusu, and Champagnie returning. Not saying the other guys will leave, but I'll feel better when I see them back. 
 
Room112" post=425564 said:
The reality is that with these new transfer rules, we have to be prepared for anybody and everybody to leave. A saving grace is CMA seems to create a family environment which could make kids feel they have a home here. 

But just thinking, Roberts, Earlington, Williams, Moore and Cole. These will all be seniors next year and most of them won't start. Will they be comfortable accepting that role? Would they want to be somewhere else where they can start and showcase their skills?

Right now based on no knowledge I'm only feeling confident in Posh, Wusu, and Champagnie returning. Not saying the other guys will leave, but I'll feel better when I see them back. 


Roberts, Williams & Earlington all talk about graduating together so I doubt they would leave in their senior years. 
 
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I think we'll have enough size next year. Moore will put on some weight and muscle, Niywe will be here, Stanley is a strong  bulky kid at 6'8, Traore is 6'8 and a strong kid plus we will still have Roberts as a Senior. What I would really like is to land this Kidtrell Blocker kid and have McGriff transfer. I think that would be a huge upgrade and really protect us against a kid like Williams being injured. I think this Blocker kid is a player. I think the only way we push Roberts out is if Justin wants to transfer home. 
 
Williams, Earlington, Posh, Wusu aren't going anywhere and only place Champ would be going is NBA draft which I highly doubt. You never know with guys like Cole & Moore but I'd hope they both decide to come back stronger (weight room guys) next year and go out as winners as part of an NCAA tournney team.
 
Mggriff, Roberts and jucos are the ones I would think have best possibility of leaving for different reasons. But I think if we're being fair, there might not be better opportunities than playing here next year. Moore and Cole  could get more minutes, but on a better team? Would be really surprised if Williams, or the young NY guys looked to go elsewhere. 
 
Stanley is really about 6'7 & Traore about same size, with great reach. Both can help at forward, but let's not delude ourselves, neither will fill big man void. If Texas Tech transfer materializes he too lacks the bulk to guard the post and seems a hybrid with some defensive skills. Also, it will be interesting to see if he sticks here.

Josh seems great kid, but really not a BE level player. Touting him increasing his strength or blossoming is folly. Beating the dead horse, we don't need Shaq, but for goodness sake, it is essential to shore up the middle with strength, size and competence. This void has gone on far too long and with fertile transfer market it is time to land someone. It is the missing link on a team that has all other ingredients to make noise next year.
 
Pretty obvious that replacing Dunn is a priority as well.  Sense is staff emphasizing the need for another ball handler who can shoot w Concerns about Greg Williams health looming 
 
Paultzman" post=425573 said:
Stanley is really about 6'7 & Traore about same size, with great reach. Both can help at forward, but let's not delude ourselves, neither will fill big man void. If Texas Tech transfer materializes he too lacks the bulk to guard the post and seems a hybrid with some defensive skills. Also, it will be interesting to see if he sticks here.

Josh seems great kid, but really not a BE level player. Touting him increasing his strength or blossoming is folly. Beating the dead horse, we don't need Shaq, but for goodness sake, it is essential to shore up the middle with strength, size and competence. This void has gone on far too long and with fertile transfer market it is time to land someone. It is the missing link on a team that has all other ingredients to make noise next year.
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I think Josh is a valuable 10-12 minute per game sub.   In brief spurts he can do damage, like block a few shots and throw one down.   He is too foul prone to play 15-20 minutes at this level, but I wouldn't cast him off.    His highlight reel is impressive though.  I never agreed with those who trashed Mullin for not playing him enough when he Anderson started him for the OOC season last year.  Roberts performs well against lesser competition, but agreed that he has to improve to be the equal of most skilled Big East big men. 
 
If Mcgriff leaves, we need another ballhandler to spell Posh.  Williams is okay if for a couple of minutes but what do you do if both he and Posh are in foul trouble?  I've seen Pinzon and we might get away with him for a couple of minutes but I wouldn't rely on that either.
 
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Think the team will miss Dunn a lot more then many of our fan base expect. Hoping we can compensate by bringing in an experienced combo guard and with Posh's growth as a soph. 
 
My expectation is that there will be either zero or virtually zero transfers out, nor should there be. 

Next year's no-brainer starters will be Posh, Williams, Champagnie.
The other swing spot will be a battle between Cole, Wusu and PInzon.
Moore will be back but I suspect they will continue to bring him off the bench.  If that happens then the choices will be Roberts, Nyiwe, or someone who comes in by way of transfer or JUCO. But I'd expect to see Nyiwe here.

The bench will be Moore, Earlington, Traore, Stanley and Nyiwe or Roberts up front and two out of the 3 among Cole, Wusu and Pinzon at the swing spots.

McGriff will be there to spell Posh and you will be happy he's there.  I'd expect Williams and Wusu to do some ball-handling as well depending on opponent and situation.

I like this team and I like the players and I think Coach Anderson does too. 

And Monte I think Pinzon is likely to make you forget all about Dunn.
 
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McGriff was one of CMA's first recruits, so there is something in him CMA sees.  We only saw glimpses of what he can do because Posh and Wusu developed quickly, and Dunn upped his game.  We don't know yet if player or coach will be loyal to one another, or will simply be mercenaries.  McGriff needs to become a Dunn-like player to get valuable in the rotation.  Otherwise he may see limited minutes if Pinzon develops as quickly as Posh and Wusu did this year.

I hope Moore comes back; I think his upside--being a good ballhandling big-- is pretty good.
 
lawmanfan" post=425590 said:
My expectation is that there will be either zero or virtually zero transfers out, nor should there be. 

Next year's no-brainer starters will be Posh, Williams, Champagnie.
The other swing spot will be a battle between Cole, Wusu and PInzon.
Moore will be back but I suspect they will continue to bring him off the bench.  If that happens then the choices will be Roberts, Nyiwe, or someone who comes in by way of transfer or JUCO. But I'd expect to see Nyiwe here.

The bench will be Moore, Earlington, Traore, Stanley and Nyiwe or Roberts up front and two out of the 3 among Cole, Wusu and Pinzon at the swing spots.

McGriff will be there to spell Posh and you will be happy he's there.  I'd expect Williams and Wusu to do some ball-handling as well depending on opponent and situation.

I like this team and I like the players and I think Coach Anderson does too. 

And Monte I think Pinzon is likely to make you forget all about Dunn.
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If Moore returns I fully expect him to start. People forget they really didn't have a conditioning off-season.  They'll put 10-15 pounds on him this summer.  Moore impresed me a lot once he slowed down and stop taking all those 3 pointers, he was arguably the 3rd most consistent player on the team behind Champ and Posh.  Only spot I believe will be up for grabs is the spot you mentioned between Wusu and Cole.  Cole regressed as the season went along and Wusu was more consistent than he was.  So it'll be interesting to see how the off-season battle goes between them.

And I do agree I don't think we'll miss Dunn too much with Pinzon here.  I was a big Dunn fan his first year, I liked his aggressiveness attacking the rim, but once people figured that out about him he wasn't as effective this year, that mid-range shot he had was streaky and his outside shooting was nearly non-existent.  Pinzon might not be better his first year than Dunn but in the long run he should be an upgrade.
 
Paultzman" post=425573 said:
Stanley is really about 6'7 & Traore about same size, with great reach. Both can help at forward, but let's not delude ourselves, neither will fill big man void. If Texas Tech transfer materializes he too lacks the bulk to guard the post and seems a hybrid with some defensive skills. Also, it will be interesting to see if he sticks here.

Josh seems great kid, but really not a BE level player. Touting him increasing his strength or blossoming is folly. Beating the dead horse, we don't need Shaq, but for goodness sake, it is essential to shore up the middle with strength, size and competence. This void has gone on far too long and with fertile transfer market it is time to land someone. It is the missing link on a team that has all other ingredients to make noise next year.
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LMAO at your profile pic.  I see you're dreaming of a Champ brother reunion as well :)
 
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