Syracuse Basketball: 2019-20 season preview for the Orange
Reserves
F/C — JR Marek Dolezaj
The first man off the bench and a fan favorite, Dolezaj will definitely see an expanded role this season without Brissett and Chukwu down low. Coaches often point out Dolezaj’s high IQ and passing ability, which makes the 6-foot-10 forward such a threat. He even has flashed a decent jumper. Dolezaj’s biggest problem is his weight. If he can add more muscle to compete in the trenches, Dolezaj could even find himself as the starting five come conference play.
G — FR Brycen Goodine
When Goodine committed to Syracuse, he was just outside ESPN’s Top 100 rankings and went unnoticed. Coaches and scouts both said Goodine had the chance to blow up and that the Orange did right by recruiting him early. Fast forward a year and Goodine finds himself as Syracuse’s top incoming recruit — No. 77, per ESPN — with an opportunity to establish himself as a star early on. The only reason he’s coming off the bench to start stems from Buddy’s experience. But, based purely on potential and natural ability, Goodine could very well be one of SU’s top players come March.
G — FR Joe Girard III
The buzz surrounding Joe Girard III never stopped. Time after time the now-freshman made headlines for his offensive ability at Glens Falls (New York) High School. He’s from Jimmer Fredette’s old stomping grounds, which makes it all the more fitting that Girard III is widely known for his 3-point shot. His height could be an issue and inexperience will likely withhold him from earning a bigger role in his freshman season. But that was also said about Buddy Boeheim, who became a strong role player for the Orange. When he plays, expect plenty of offense from the 6-foot-1 guard.
F — SO Robert Braswell
Robert Braswell is still an extremely raw player but showed signs of life when given time off the bench for Syracuse his freshman season. The 6-foot-7 Braswell is very athletic and should make an impact on both sides of the floor if given the opportunity. In SU’s exhibition game against Daemen, Braswell played 22 minutes and shot 6-for-7 from the floor with 17 points, four rebounds and three blocks. While it’s just an exhibition, Braswell looks much calmer and in control. If SU runs a small-ball lineup, Braswell could stand to gain extra minutes as the season progresses, as there’s no reliable center for the Orange.