NCAA Basketball: 10 teams with most to lose with pending 2023 NBA Draft decisions

6. Illinois Fighting Illini

Players to watch: Terrence Shannon Jr. and Coleman Hawkins

Illinois has had some confirmed roster changes outside of Matthew Mayer, who has no eligibility left. Jayden Epps and RJ Melendez have transferred out, joining Skyy Clark. The only key returner left from the rotation is Dain Dainja but they did land a couple of key transfers in Marcus Domask and Justin Harmon on the perimeter in case things don’t work out with Shannon.

Coming over from Texas Tech, Shannon proved that he can be a go-to scorer and lead option on an NCAA Tournament team. The 6’6 guard led the Illini with 17.2 ppg on 42% shooting from the field and had a 30-point game against Monmouth, along with 29 points and 10 rebounds in a win over UCLA.

Shannon basically played point guard for Illinois most of the season but still was successful. He may not have been completely efficient but a case can be made that with an effective veteran ball-handler to play alongside him, Shannon could have an even bigger 5th year and raise his pro stock even more.

The same can be said for Hawkins, a 6’10 skilled big man that led them in both rebounding and assists. He’s a good defender but could improve his offensive skills and his shooting even more by coming back. If he stays pro, the Illinois frontcourt suddenly becomes suddenly thin, relying on Dainja to be highly effective for 30+ mpg.