Maryland Basketball: 2019-20 season preview for the Terrapins

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - MARCH 23: The Maryland Terrapins bench celebrates as they take on the LSU Tigers during the second half of the game in the second round of the 2019 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Vystar Memorial Arena on March 23, 2019 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

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Projected Frontcourt Starters

Mahki Mitchell | 6-foot-9 | 230 lbs | Freshman

This is where Bruno Fernando‘s absence will be felt the most. With no clear-cut, day one starter, ESPN-100 top recruit (70th overall) Mahki Mitchell will likely be tasked with manning the paint for the Maryland Terrapins. Despite his obvious youth, Mitchell is the best option to start at center. He is 230 lbs. with the ability to add strength and has all the makings of a solid two-way game. Mitchell often looks to pass out of the low post but also shows solid touch around the rim on the many offensive rebound putbacks he gets. Mitchell’s over 7-foot wingspan allows him to control the game at both ends but committing to a low-usage role on offense in Year One will do wonders for his efficiency.

Jalen Smith | 6-foot-10 | 215 lbs | Sophomore

While the frontcourt represents the Maryland Terrapins’ biggest loss in (now) Atlanta Hawk Bruno Fernando, it also represents their biggest strength, in returning forward Jalen Smith. In just 26.7 minutes per game last season, Smith showed that he may have already been one of Turgeon’s best players. Smith averaged 11.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, 0.9 assists and 1.2 blocks per game. Smith had the second-best PER (22.4) on last year’s team and will have more shot attempts at his disposal. His defense will continue to be strong but if he improves his shooting from the outside (26.8% from 3-point range) or the charity stripe (65.8% from free throw line), expect to see Smith in Big Ten POY running.

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