NCAA Basketball: Way-too-early top 25 power rankings for 2022-23 season

2021-22 season record: 28-6 (15-3)

There’s no question that star freshman forward Jabari Walker is gone, off to be a projected top-3 pick in the NBA Draft. The status of Walker Kessler is more in question as he’s right in the 25-40 range but the nation’s shot-blocking leader probably will ride the wave of momentum out of Auburn as well.

That still leaves a fair amount of production leftover. Zep Jasper is likely gone, while Devan Cambridge has already transferred out. But the duo of Wendell Green and KD Johnson will be back, one of the better defensive duos in the country and both averaged over 12.0 ppg this past season. Allen Flanigan will look to be back after missing half the season due to injury and never looking like his old self. Four-star wing Chance Westry will also get some early minutes as well.

With both Kessler and Smith gone, the frontcourt will be the biggest question. The current projected starters are Jaylin Williams and Dylan Cardwell, two reserves that were solid off the bench and will get extended minutes.

But admittedly, I’m cheating a bit here because all expectations are the Tigers will be getting five-star forward and former LSU Tiger commit Yohan Traore soon. He’ll be a big impact player in the frontcourt and while different than Jabari Smith, will be capable of producing some big numbers as well as a freshman. Once Traore is on board, don’t be surprised if they add one more guard to round out the rotation.

*Editor’s note: Traore committed to Auburn on March 31st