NCAA Basketball: Top 26 team transfer winners from 2022 offseason

Outgoing transfers: None

Incoming transfers: Malachi Smith (Chattanooga), Efton Reid (LSU)

When Gonzaga’s entire starting lineup from last season entered the NBA Draft process, the team had backup plans in case they left. In the case of All-American Drew Timme, the Bulldogs were able to get a former five-star prospect in LSU transfer Efton Reid.

Reid, a 6’11 center that started all 34 games last season, averaged 6.3 ppg and 4.3 rpg in 20 mpg. He had a strong start to his freshman campaign, with six double-digit scoring games. But he struggled in SEC play outside of 12 points on 6/6 shooting against Missouri in the conference tournament. He’s a good defender and has long-term potential and will be one of the best backup centers in the country behind Timme.

But the star pickup for the program is Smith, the SoCon Player of the Year. He averaged 19.9 ppg, 6.7 rpg, and 3.0 apg, all of which led Chattanooga. He was efficient as well, shooting 49% from the field and 41% from deep. Some big performances include 36 points against Murray State and 28 points and 10 rebounds versus VMI. He’s a quality scorer, capable passer, and underrated rebounder and can play multiple positions in the backcourt.

Considering how much talent the Bulldogs bring back, these two may not have the biggest roles next season. But what they do provide could be what finally gets this team a national title and potentially another No. 1 preseason ranking.