MWC Basketball: Top 5 returning players for the 2017-2018 season

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Jan 4, 2017; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Boise State Broncos guard Chandler Hutchison (15) shouts towards his bench after scoring a basket against the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels during a game at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports /

2) Chandler Hutchison (Boise State)

To many, Chandler Hutchison is the early favorite to be named 2017-2018 Mountain West Player of the Year. Another tall guard, Hutchison averaged 17.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists for the third place Boise State Broncos.

After the sudden decision by Paris Austin to leave the Broncos, Hutchison will need to carry a heavy load if Boise State is to compete for a conference title.

An impressive aspect to Hutchison’s success is that he scores a majority of his points from inside while weighing only 193 pounds. This ability to bang down low for both baskets and rebounds, while being physically thin, is a testament to Hutchison’s skill and effort.

Hutchison’s decision to return to Boise State, after initially declaring for the NBA Draft, could ultimately benefit him. He can use this year to add some muscle and expand his range, raising his draft stock in the process.

Being the best returning senior, and the only senior on this Top 5 list, Hutchison will automatically be one of the 2-3 players considered preseason locks for All-Mountain West First Team. He also has the skill to win Mountain West Player of the Year, an award that has been won by a senior in each of the past four years.