In 2022, Syracuse brings in what Jim Boeheim calls his, “Best recruiting class ever.” The Orange could field an entire starting five with what the ‘22 class offers:
PG: 3-star Quadir Copeland
SG: 4-star Justin Taylor
SF: 4-star Chris Bunch
PF: 3-star Maliq Brown
C: Peter Carey
No doubt, Syracuse is in a good spot heading into next season. Currently the 14th ranked class in the country, 4th in the ACC. With plenty to be excited about Orange, fans are trying to find out as much as they can about their new toys. One huge question still remains: Out of these five, who will be the most impactful next season?
Well, safe to say there’s plenty of talent. The most recent of the five recruits Chris Bunch thinks this group can win the ACC as he told Mike McAllister:
“I think we can really be the best team in the ACC if I’m being perfectly honest. I never really believed in the blue bloods or all that type of stuff. I’ve always believed in workers and all that type. I think if we come in, work and listen to Coach Boeheim, I don’t see why we can’t be the number one team in the ACC.” – Chris Bunch
Taylor and Bunch are the highest rated of the group according to 247 as well as ESPN. On Paul Biancardi’s ESPN 100, Bunch is the 97th ranked prospect, while Taylor is the 100th:
Both those guys look to make an immediate impact, as it seems the wing position will be wide open. This year the Orange will feature both Buddy and Jimmy Boeheim as well as Cole Swider every night. Next season, there’s a good chance all three of those guys are gone, which leaves a wide-open spot for both Bunch and Taylor. Taylor even mentioned this in an interview with McAllister after his commitment:
“It was just the perfect opportunity for me too coming in as a freshman. Having a good role for me with Buddy leaving. All the pieces just fell into place, I think. It was the best fit for me.” – Justin Taylor
If you look elsewhere there’s not as much opportunity. Joe Girard, Jesse Edwards, and Benny Williams will likely be back for another year and will start at their respective positions.
This really isn’t a question of the talent these guys have, they’re all pretty talented. If that weren’t the case, Boeheim wouldn’t be so high on them coming into next year. Rather, this comes down to how much time each of them will see. Bunch and Taylor will be on the court immediately, while a guy like Peter Carey will likely sit behind Edwards and Frank Anselem for at least a season, Copeland will watch Girard from the bench for a year, and Brown will play at least a season behind Williams. Look for the two 4-stars to stand out right away.
