With the additions of forward Jyare Davis from Delaware and center Eddie Lampkin Jr. from Colorado, Syracuse is set on the front court. Yet, SU is still searching to replace guard Judah Mintz. So what are the Orange’s options in the portal?
Mount St. Mary guard Dakota Leffew
This option for Syracuse should be no surprise. With the hiring of Mount St. Mary’s coach Dan Engeelstead, most experts are projecting that guard Dakota Leffew will also come over to the 315. The senior led the Mountaineers in points, minutes, and assists this past season. He would also partly address Syracuse’s three point shooting problem, as he went 36% from three this past season. Leffew would be a true leader on offense who can spread the floor but also shoot. The guard released his top six schools last week, with Syracuse being in the mix among Georgia, Pitt, South Carolina, Villanova, and Xaiver. The Georgia native took his official visit to Syracuse with Davis this past weekend. It would be somewhat of a failure if Engeelstead doesn’t get Leffew to SU, but we can only wait to see where the senior commits.
Duke guard Jeremy Roach
Now I know you might think this is a long shot, which it is, but Roach would slot in perfectly to the Syracuse offense. The 180 pound guard declared for the draft in a recent instagram post while still maintaining his college eligibility and entering the portal. Roach was a five star and top 25 recruit of high school. This past season with the Blue Devils, the Virginia native averaged 14 points per game. More importantly though, Roach shot nearly 42 percent from the three point line. That mark is higher than any Orange player this past season. On top of that, Roach would bring veteran experience to the squad. Syracuse didn’t have a single starter above the grade level of a sophomore this past season. Roach’s leadership could make a huge difference. In reality, the guard will most likely not end up at SU, being rumored to St. Johns, Kentucky, and Arkansas. If SU gets a shot at Roach though, it would perfectly complete the starting five.
Looking Ahead
Time is ticking for Syracuse to make a move for a guard. Coach Red has made big strides so far recruiting wise, but needs one more piece to put together a sound starting five. If the second year head coach can land another top transfer from the portal, SU’s chances of making the NCAA tournament could be better than ever
