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Minnesota Basketball: Projected depth chart and rotation for 2023-24 season

Feb 25, 2023; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach Ben Johnson watches action against the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the second half at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 25, 2023; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach Ben Johnson watches action against the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the second half at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /
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(Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
(Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

Shooting guard

Starter – Braeden Carrington: 5.9 PPG / 3.6 RPG / 20 MPG

Depending on what Johnson chooses to do with Mitchell and Hawkins will determine how the minutes are distributed at shooting guard. My bet is that, while Mitchell and Hawkins see ample playing time, sophomore Braeden Carrington emerges as the starter here.

Carrington, a former Minnesota Mr. Basketball, had flashes during his first season on campus and ended up playing 20 minutes per game during the lost season. Although his shooting touch from high school didn’t carry over into his debut campaign, he showed the ability to get to the rim and provided great energy on both ends. If he continues to develop, he should be a difference-maker this winter for the Gophers, but staying healthy will be critical. Carrington missed nine games due to injury last year and if the injury bug bites again, it could stall his development.

Off the bench – Cam Christie

Cam Christie was the gem of Johnson’s 2023 high school class and should see immediate action in this backcourt. The younger brother of former Michigan State star Max, Christie has ideal size (6’5″) for the position and a smooth stroke. But, he’ll also need time to adjust to the rugged and physical nature of the Big Ten, so I expect him to be more of a rotation piece in 2023-24, at least to begin the season.

Rotation – Will Ramberg: 2.1 PPG / 3.1 RPG / 12.6 MPG

Another former walk-on, Will Ramberg was forced into a larger role than expected last season due to how thin the Gophers were in the backcourt. Ramberg is never going to be a significant contributor but proved to be a decent defender and at least passable in short spurts. He’ll likely see his role reduced with the addition of three newcomers, but provides a depth piece with some experience.