Recently Alan Griffin was granted immediate eligibility, likely solidifying Syracuse’s starting roster. After scoring almost nine points per game in 18 minutes at Illinois last season, Griffin transferred to Syracuse this past offseason. 
While he wasn’t a starter for the Illini, Griffin did knock down almost 42 percent of his threes last season. SU is hoping that production carries over into this upcoming season, allowing for spacing similar to last season’s with Elijah Hughes. 
Before Griffin was deemed eligible, there was uncertainty about who would slot in at small forward. Quincy Guerrier was an option, although his lack of range would hurt SU’s offense. However, he would provide more beef down low for rebounding. Now, he’ll likely fill the same role as last season as the sixth man off the bench. 
Now with the six-foot-five Griffin eligible, SU’s starting lineup is set, and the depth chart is in much better shape. Syracuse can now bring Woody Newton along slowly if need be. Even Kadary Richmond’s development is not as pertinent this coming season, although he has been making noise in practice. 
Like last season, Syracuse can space out Boeheim, Girard and now Griffin along the three point line with Marek Dolezaj and Bourama Sidibe down low. If Griffin’s shooting percentage stays similar to last year, he could lead the Orange in three point percentage. 
While his shooting percentage is likely to go down with increased shooting, he will likely be relied on as a third option to Boeheim and Girard. If he’s used as a spot-up shooter, Griffin could have similar percentages to last season, with an increased scoring output. Fizz Nation seems to think that Griffin should be successful in his first season in Orange.
Whether he ups his scoring to around 15 points this season or not, Griffin is an important player for Syracuse’s team.
