12. Syracuse
For the first time in 47 years, someone other than Jim Boeheim will roam Syracuse’s sideline. Adrian “Red” Autry is taking over for a retiring Jim Boeheim after spending the last seven seasons as associate head coach.
Autry has already landed one of the top players in the portal in J.J. Starling, a former five-star recruit who decided to transfer from Notre Dame after Mike Brey’s decision to retire. Starling averaged 11.2 points in 29.6 minutes as a freshman but should see a boost in production with increased usage at Syracuse.
Syracuse was poised to have one of the best backcourts in college basketball next season, but Joe Girard III hit the portal not long after Starling committed. Girard averaged 16.4 points per game last season.
Ultimately, the decision of All-ACC center Jesse Edwards will be the most impactful offseason move for Syracuse. Edwards averaged 14.5 points, 10.3 boards, and 2.7 blocks last season. He was Syracuse’s most prolific and important player. Edwards has one more year of eligibility, which he could use at Syracuse or somewhere else. He could also go pro. His departure would leave a void in the middle that would leave Autry portaling for size.