Syracuse’s class of 2022 is already regarded as one of the best Jim Boeheim’s ever had. And it could get even better. However, the five-player group is entering a very thin roster. SU is going to need plenty of production from its freshmen, enough that Boeheim has already admitted one or two could play their way into starting roles. Some first-years will get plenty of run, and others could get jealous… and search for other opportunities (unfortunately the world we live in now.).
That means the Orange can’t afford to get lazy when it comes to the class of 2023. Regardless of who is at the helm of the program, SU has to bring in some top-tier talent. There are certainly options at the moment, but those players will entertain plenty of options, including the Overtime Elite and NBA G-League programs. It would serve everyone in the 315 well for Syracuse to get on the recruiting trail right away.
Once assistants Gerry McNamara, Adrian Autry and Allen Griffin hit the youth circuits, they’re going to have a list of prospects to watch, mainly to fill positional needs. Let’s see what groups the Orange will be focusing on in 2023.
- Point Guard
After next season, there’s a strong chance Joe Girard III could wrap up his career in Orange. JG3 has two more years of eligibility, but the Glens Falls native has started for the past three years. It feels like his ceiling can’t get much higher. Symir Torrence has two more years of eligibility as well, and he certainly might use them both. However, is he a true starting point guard? Again, we’ll find out next season. In 2023, Quadir Copeland could be attempting to step into a starting role. But the Orange will want depth, and that comes in the form of a secure ball-handler who plays solid defense.
2. Center
When is it not a need? Jesse Edwards has shown the potential to be an NBA player with one more solid season. Before his season-ending wrist injury, the Dutchman was on the fast track to ACC Most Improved Player, averaging almost 13 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3 blocks per game. If Edwards develops a couple of post moves and/or a jumper, he’ll be a second-round pick in the 2022 draft. That leaves Frank Anselem (if he doesn’t transfer), projects John Bol Ajak and Peter Carey as the SU big men. Uh, yeah. Somehow, someway, a powerful center needs to be brought to the Hill. Transfer portal or high school, doesn’t matter. Boeheim needs to reel in a big fish.
3. Floor Spacers
Right now, Justin Taylor is the only player we know has a consistent three-point jumper. Everyone else is hit-or-miss. Syracuse’s offense has been based on great shooting for the past three years, and in this era, the three-ball decides seasons. SU has to find shooters to continue the transition style which has become its bread-and-butter.
