Next Year Starting Five

[Snipe]

I have to admit, I have heard a lot of hype about next year's class but I know very little about them.

Can someone give me a quick breakdown of the new faces?

And throw out your starting five. How deep will our rotation be?

Do you consider any if theses guys "can't miss"?

[nasdadjr]

I would personally like to see Xavier go bigger but I know it will never happen.
Id like to see...
Semaj, Abell, Martin, Reynolds, Stainbrook.

If Semaj leaves put Davis in there.

Most likely starting though...
Davis, Semaj, Martin, Stain, Abell

If Semaj leaves maybe Blueitt in his spot but really not sure

[profson]

I would personally like to see Xavier go bigger but I know it will never happen.
Id like to see...
Semaj, Abell, Martin, Reynolds, Stainbrook.

If Semaj leaves put Davis in there.

Most likely starting though...
Davis, Semaj, Martin, Stain, Abell

If Semaj leaves maybe Blueitt in his spot but really not sure

Very interesting question. Might depend whether it is first game or start of conference play. If first game, I doubt Bluiett starts in any scenario even if he is the second coming. Mack will want to ease the freshman in slowly and has enough bodies to do so.

In the Semaj-stays scenario, your first idea of going big is very attractive. But I share what I think is behind your "most likely" scenario, that at the start of the year Mack will not sit a 4th year starting PG, though I am worried about early foul trouble for Martin at PF and being dominated inside. Another scenario is to start Stainbrook, Reynolds, Martin, Semaj, Davis, with Abell being the first sub at either SG (Davis goes out) or SF (for Martin). Even where he comes off the bench early, Abell plays tons of minutes. This could make sense even if Abell is as good as advertised. The viability of that depends on what Mack wants the big man rotation to be, i.e. does he want Stainbrook and Reynolds together at the start and Farr first off the bench (unless Martin slides over), or Reynolds to give energy when Stainbrook sits? Nice problem to have.

If Semaj leaves, then Davis, Abell, Martin, Reynolds and Stainbrook seems clearer to me.

As for Bluiett, Mack has said he likes to teach only one position to a freshman. My guess is that is SF.

[IM4X]

No question Blueitt is the real deal. One of three best player in his state. Would not be surprised to see Macura get some minutes. Like Blueitt he scores in buckets and he can flat out do it all.

[profson]

I have to admit, I have heard a lot of hype about next year's class but I know very little about them.

Can someone give me a quick breakdown of the new faces?

And throw out your starting five. How deep will our rotation be?

Do you consider any if theses guys "can't miss"?

My assumption is that Abell will get by far the most minutes of each newbie. He is older, had two years at IU, can play SG or SF and was described by Mack as faster than Semaj. He has a mature body and supposedly can play defense.

The other five are freshman so it is easy to project what we hope they will be eventually and expect them to produce immediately. This rarely happens unless you are a top talent (Dez, Semaj) or the team is depleted. So here are my wild guesses

- O'Mara: unless Farr is a bust, I don't expect much in his first year. First I want to see how tall he really is. Second he will be foul prone like most young bigs and going against grown men. He will benefit from practice with Stainbrook. (It is important to note than none of the five is in a 5th year of HS.)

- Sumner: good handle and bounce and skills to the rim, good in transition, and shot looks decent. He is extremely skinny and just needs time. He has had a growth spurt, they say, and it is fair to ask whether he has grown out of the PG position, especially on defense. Irrespective, defense will be a challenge his first year.

- Macura: about 6'5" but very skinny. Very good shot (though not "among best in country" as was said of Redford and M. Davis). Has broader skills than they do, but I just think he gets manhandled in year one, offensively and defensively. We need to see if he is quick enough for the 2 because the physical challenge is tough for him at the 3 (think of dealing with Warren). If he finds time in year one, it is as shooting specialist instead of M. Davis. Ultimately is his upside as a Jake Thomas or more?

- London: 6'9"+ but hyper skinny. Grew 8 inches a couple of years ago and thus has perimeter skills. Is a good shooter and good in transition, but it is difficult to see him defending any position right now. He may be the longest to develop but may well be worth the wait.

- Bluiett: highest rated, about 10-15 spots less than Semaj/Dez if I recall correctly. Most mature game and body. If there is a knock on him it is that for someone so highly rated he is not an elite athlete. He is a very good shooter and creates shots by knowing and exploiting angles. The base question is how the big step up in athletes will affect him. I think there is a good chance he sees rotation time if Semaj leaves and maybe even if not.

I won't comment on rotation people among the returning people (other than starters as provided in an earlier posting) because it depends on Semaj and the need for people to leave the program which I think is unfair and unnecessary speculation. We will know soon enough

[TUclutch]

Id bet big money that if semaj stays, they starting lineup will be Semaj, Remy, JMart, Reynolds, and Stainbrook. Yes that is a big lineup but i wouldn't say it is "going big". Remy is a good SG and will play most minutes at the 2. Dee Bluiett Macura and Myles will be the first four off the bench with Martin sliding to the 4 before Farr gets in.

[xubball1993]

Sorry, I don't understand why everybody thinks Semaj is leaving. He's not that good; not yet. Tu was better at putting the team on his back and practically winning games single-handedly; don't see him tearing up The Association.

[james notsirhc 0]

People say Semaj may leave because he has more NBA potential then Tu ever had. You can't teach 6'3 with elite quickness and a 6'6 wingspan. You can teach a player to shoot better. NBA scouts probably see Semaj as a pure pg who distributes first. I think he is better suited as a playmaker who both scores and passes, but we require him to carry our scoring load since he is by far our most talented player. I think his ceiling is a Jrue Holiday type player in the NBA, which is enticing. That being said he'd be smart to stay and reap the benefits of playing with a better team next season. We could make a serious tourney run next season with Semaj, and scouts drool over deep runs like I do over Jennifer Lawrence's cleavage.

On to the starters: PG-Semaj SG- Remy Abell SF-Martin PF- Reynolds C- Stain Train 6th man- Blueitt (he's legit) Key reserves- Dee, Farr, and Myles

Dee may start as he is experienced, but I see Abell getting more minutes overall. Maybe Remy is better suited as a 6th man, as he could be that spark off the bench. If Myles gets out of his head and fixes his shot, he will play some decent minutes (10-12 minutes/game) as our 3pt specialist. I also expect to see a lot of Blueitt with anywhere from 18-22 minutes/game. I love the prospects of seeing a smaller lineup of Semaj, Abell, Blueitt, JMart, and Stainbrook. That lineup could score from anywhere and JMart proved he can rebound well enough to play some solid minutes at the 4. I'm pumped up!

[Caveat]

Semaj is at the point now where coming back won't help his draft status tremendously, but it could seriously hurt it if his 3 point game continue to not be there. He's a "potential" pick, and every year he he gets older without realizing that potential is another reason to believe it isn't there.

[Pete Delkus]

I don't know the shooting acumen of Abel, however I don't think this lineup has enough outside firepower to create the spacing a team (mostly Semaj) needs to be successful.

Sato, Chalmers, Tu, Crawford, Doellman, Lavender, Duncan all could rake from outside. I know Blueitt and Macura can stroke, and for this reason, I would consider playing these Freshman the amount of time in which Doellman and Cage received their first year.

If Abel is just an average shooter, I don't care how athletic he is when Martin would be the only 1 of the 5 to hit it from "3".

Also, I long for a Romain Sato 2.0. Kid could rebound like a forward, ball defend, help defend & hit the 3.

I also miss stretch 4's!!!! I love Jalen, but Doellman and Duncan really allowed the O to flow.

[BandAid]

Abell was second in the 3-point contest at Muskie Madness. It's a part of his game. As is slashing. I can't say if he's elite in either, but I expect him to be more than competent.

[james notsirhc 0]

I think Abell will be an improvement in or outside shooting. 1/3 of his shot attempts were from downtown and he made 48% of them. I also think Farr has stretch four written all over him, unfortunately I didn't see a lot from him in terms of toughness this year and he seems to play like he's a big from europe (in love with 3's). Maybe I'm too high on Blueitt, but he should be an instant impact as well. Thinking we'll have a totally different look to us next year

[drudy23]

Abell was second in the 3-point contest at Muskie Madness. It's a part of his game. As is slashing. I can't say if he's elite in either, but I expect him to be more than competent.

Look who he was shooting against.

And really...he's a good shooter because he came in 2nd at Muskie Madness?

[XfansinKy]

For what it's worth I watched Abell play in the Ky Sweet 16 state tournament. In a field with a handful of future NAIA-DivIII players and just a few D1 recruits he was arguably the best player in that tournament. He played for a Louisville Ky high-school basketball power house that was well coached as well. His athleticism is not elite but he could get up and down the court really well and had good enough leaping ability to score in the paint and transition. He also is a pretty strong built kid too that allowed him to finish and get a couple and ones. In high school he had kind of a weird looking shot but it seemed to have good rotation and he was efficient from the three point line. Big and strong enough to help on the boards too. Watching him then we didn't think he would be an All-Big 10 player or anything and doubt he's going to be all-conference at X but could be a really good starting 5 rotation player. I think expecting him come in and be impactful as Crawford is unfair to Remy. He had a good reputation in HS as well and will be a good representative for Xavier basketball. Well that's my eye test from seeing him in person. Oh yea he looked like a legit 6'3 or 6'4 and at least 200lbs back then.

[BandAid]

Look who he was shooting against.

And really...he's a good shooter because he came in 2nd at Muskie Madness?

Just using what reference we have. He was a beast at Muskie Madness

[blueblob06]

Abell didn't get a lot of time on the court at IU but had good numbers from 3pt range, albeit in not a lot of attempts:
Frosh Yr - 8.3 min/gm 6 for 15 (40%)
Soph Yr - 12.5 min/gm 16 for 33 (48.5%)
Total - 22 for 48 (45.8%)

I think we'll have two reliable 3-point threats in Martin & Abell, plus Dee Davis. Let's hope we'll never seen anything again like the slump Myles finished with this yr. If he and Farr can be more consistent from 3, that's two more guys. Anything from the other Freshmen would be a bonus.

I was curious and here is how we finished this yr, by 3 pt percentages & how many they made:
Semaj 38.8% (19) - not bad for "no 3pt range" and I know he had several lobs from half-court and further to pull this number down
Farr 38.0% (19)
Martin 37.3% (50)
Dee 37.1% (39)
Stainbrook 33.3% (1)
Myles 33.1% (41)
Randolph 19.2% (5)
Philmore 0% (0 for 7)
Kamall 0% (0 for 2)

[drudy23]

Just using what reference we have. He was a beast at Muskie Madness

So was Jeff Robinson.

[THRILLHOUSE]

I'm hoping for a Semaj-Abell-JMart-Jalen-Stain starting lineup. Wouldn't shock me if Dee begins the season in the starting lineup since he's a Senior and Mack seems to think more highly of him than anyone else. Of course with transfers and the possibility of Semaj leaving early, still don't really know what the roster will be next year.

[Get Real]

Semaj is likely to turn pro and therfore should not be in the mix next year. Given that their are 5 new players coming in next year, another position will have to be opened. Thus, who is the most likely candidate?

[The_Mack_Pack]

I honestly think at least two of the freshman will play important roles on next seasons team. I'd venture to guess that it will be Bluiett and Macura. To whoever said Macura will be like Jake Thomas.. No. Think more of a Kellen Dunham type player who won't need to force up crazy shots like Dunham does.

[Pete Delkus]

I agree with the opportunity for Blueitt and Macura to contribute the most, as that is where we lacked depth all year. It's fair to say that Richards, M Davis and Randolph did little to improve this team, beside a few blips here and there.

I hope competition brings enhanced play, at ALL 5 spots.

However, more consistent and diverse guard/wing play is needed in a MAJOR way.

[XUFan09]

I honestly think at least two of the freshman will play important roles on next seasons team. I'd venture to guess that it will be Bluiett and Macura. To whoever said Macura will be like Jake Thomas.. No. Think more of a Kellen Dunham type player who won't need to force up crazy shots like Dunham does.

Dunham basically has no first step, whereas Macura has a good first step and is athletic.

[XUFan09]

I'm hoping for a Semaj-Abell-JMart-Jalen-Stain starting lineup. Wouldn't shock me if Dee begins the season in the starting lineup since he's a Senior and Mack seems to think more highly of him than anyone else. Of course with transfers and the possibility of Semaj leaving early, still don't really know what the roster will be next year.

Opposing coaches think highly of him too.

[GoMuskies]

Yes, I'm sure Dee is a favorite of our opponents' coaches.

[MHettel]

I'm torn on Semaj as a pro. The list of reasons why he should / could go is about as long as the list of reasons why he shouldn't / couldn't go.

The window closes on "potential" at some point. If he comes back, he'll be the age of a normal senior by the end of his junior year. You dont see alot of College seniors getting drafted on "potential."

I don't really understand Semaj's 3 point shooting. It wasnt pretty, but it went in fairly often. I dont know why he didnt take more 3's. Even if he doubled his attempts and only hit 25% of them, he would still finish the season at 32%, which is just good enough to make the opponent respect the shot, and might give him another step on the drive...

I guess I predict that he'll be back. And with that in mind, and knowing that we will be 2 scholarships over, i suspect that Kamall and Brandon will both leave. I think Randolph showed some potential, but he's pretty small and not overly quick or athletic. So with Davis and Semaj and Sumner on the roster we would have the ball handling covered (but we would need to restock for the following year).

I go with Semaj as PG. Thats going to be the position he needs to play in the NBA, so lets get him over there. Abell at SG. Martin, Reynolds, and Stainbrook up front.

Dee is the main sub in the backcourt. I dont think it matters one bit that He'll be a senior. See has not improved one bit since he arrived at XU. We will get the exact same result next year as we got this year. Dont forget that Mack did NOT select Dee as a Captain this year, instead going with Philmore, Semaj and Stain. Dee is a very good ballhandler, but simply put lacks the size / quickness needed to get to the rim at this level. Without that, you've got a little guy that you can step out on and take way the jumper.

I think Blueitt will get some time at the 3. I think Martin will play some 4.

My opinions of Farr and Myles Davis changed drastically through the year.

Since conference play started, Davis played 15 mintes a game and made 20 buckets in 21 games. He made 7 2-pt shots. he made 10 FTs on 19 attempts. He made ONE BASKET in 115 minutes played over an 8 game stretch where we sputtered to end the season at 3-5. He's not very good on defense. I'm not sure if he's good enough to play at this level. I was hoping for a bigger version of Redford, bringing a few more skills to the table. But Redford could change the game by not even taking a shot.... I dont see Davis in the rotation next year. I see Macura.

Farr is frustrating too. His minutes got slashed down the stretch, probably because Jalen emerged, and certainly because he floated around the peremiter too much and played poor defense. My guess is that he started off strong simply because teams had no idea that he coudl shoot a little bit. Once they had the "book" on him, the shots weren't going down quite as easy with a little more defense involved. I DO see Farr in the rotation next year, but possibly London could find some minutes too.

[mistabeecee41]

I'm torn on Semaj as a pro. The list of reasons why he should / could go is about as long as the list of reasons why he shouldn't / couldn't go.

The window closes on "potential" at some point. If he comes back, he'll be the age of a normal senior by the end of his junior year. You dont see alot of College seniors getting drafted on "potential."

I don't really understand Semaj's 3 point shooting. It wasnt pretty, but it went in fairly often. I dont know why he didnt take more 3's. Even if he doubled his attempts and only hit 25% of them, he would still finish the season at 32%, which is just good enough to make the opponent respect the shot, and might give him another step on the drive...

I guess I predict that he'll be back. And with that in mind, and knowing that we will be 2 scholarships over, i suspect that Kamall and Brandon will both leave. I think Randolph showed some potential, but he's pretty small and not overly quick or athletic. So with Davis and Semaj and Sumner on the roster we would have the ball handling covered (but we would need to restock for the following year).

I go with Semaj as PG. Thats going to be the position he needs to play in the NBA, so lets get him over there. Abell at SG. Martin, Reynolds, and Stainbrook up front.

Dee is the main sub in the backcourt. I dont think it matters one bit that He'll be a senior. See has not improved one bit since he arrived at XU. We will get the exact same result next year as we got this year. Dont forget that Mack did NOT select Dee as a Captain this year, instead going with Philmore, Semaj and Stain. Dee is a very good ballhandler, but simply put lacks the size / quickness needed to get to the rim at this level. Without that, you've got a little guy that you can step out on and take way the jumper.

I think Blueitt will get some time at the 3. I think Martin will play some 4.

My opinions of Farr and Myles Davis changed drastically through the year.

Since conference play started, Davis played 15 mintes a game and made 20 buckets in 21 games. He made 7 2-pt shots. he made 10 FTs on 19 attempts. He made ONE BASKET in 115 minutes played over an 8 game stretch where we sputtered to end the season at 3-5. He's not very good on defense. I'm not sure if he's good enough to play at this level. I was hoping for a bigger version of Redford, bringing a few more skills to the table. But Redford could change the game by not even taking a shot.... I dont see Davis in the rotation next year. I see Macura.

Farr is frustrating too. His minutes got slashed down the stretch, probably because Jalen emerged, and certainly because he floated around the peremiter too much and played poor defense. My guess is that he started off strong simply because teams had no idea that he coudl shoot a little bit. Once they had the "book" on him, the shots weren't going down quite as easy with a little more defense involved. I DO see Farr in the rotation next year, but possibly London could find some minutes too.

Agree regarding Kamall and Randolph. Randolph I still see as a potential player down the road - he'll just be the odd man out if Semaj comes back and I'm not sure how enticing 2 years of bench riding sounds before (potentially) getting a shot his junior year.

[xufan2434]

It's really hard for me to see Semaj leaving.. I think I feel better about him staying than I did DBown. He has too many things to improve upon, and I selfishly want him to stay cause I love his attitude.

So Kamall Richards probably leaves, but who else? I don't think I'm ready to write Randolph off yet. We would be putting all of our eggs into Sumner for the year after. But then again I really don't know what else would happen.

I would love a starting lineup of Semaj Remy Martin Jalen and Stainbrook... We're gonna need some bigs off the bench but hopefully run small into March. I have confidence that Farr will get better. He has one of the best work ethics on the team. He needs to work on his post moves and not be so one dimensional. Davis, I don't really know. He's more of a liability on defense then I thought he would be coming into the season. Macura can stroke it (Check his game winner in the state final) but as said earlier he's pretty skinny and uncertain about his defense capabilities.

I really hope Dee doesn't start. He plays great defense, but his offense just doesn't have it. He had two key turnovers last night. A terrible pass to Jmart on a back cut, and also had the ball taken from him trying to drive after a pump fake. That stuff can't happen. The good news is that they have plenty of time to get better and I'm pretty optimistic that a lot of them will.

[bobbiemcgee]

Creighton fans thought they were getting Macura to replace McBuckets (ok, not really, but in a Daytonesque fog). Hope he can come off the bench and shake things up in a hurry:

http://www.startribune.com/sports/preps/250658911.html

http://www.startribune.com/sports/250497911.html

[American X]

I would love a starting lineup of Semaj Remy Martin Jalen and Stainbrook...


http://www.anybooze.com/ekmps/shops/anyboozecom/images/remy-martin-coeur-de-cognac-550-p.jpg

I would rather see a Sierra Torpedo or Pappy Van Winkle in the starting lineup. We are much more of a beer and bourbon fan base.

[IM4X]

Creighton fans thought they were getting Macura to replace McBuckets (ok, not really, but in a Daytonesque fog). Hope he can come off the bench and shake things up in a hurry:

http://www.startribune.com/sports/preps/250658911.html

http://www.startribune.com/sports/250497911.html

Can't help but think (by watching him play in a number of videos and by reading up on him and seeing the # of points he's consistently put up this year and the different ways he's scored those points) this kid might be the biggest surprise of the new recruits. Bluiett is the most decorated/ highest rated (and expectation will be high for him) but Macura can do it all: shoot the 3, drive past defenders and even throw it down- reminds me a bit of Justin Doellman.

[Muskie]

Ah the time honored portion of the "season" where we speculate rampantly about how well "can't miss" recruits will come in as Freshman and be starters, play significant minutes, or definitely take someone's starting job. This portion of the season came way too early.

[GoMuskies]

We haven't had too many "can't miss" guys, and those guys usually did come in and start right away. (I'm thinking Sato, Lloyd Price, Semaj, Hammer) To various degrees of success.

[bobbiemcgee]

Ah the time honored portion of the "season" where we speculate rampantly about how well "can't miss" recruits will come in as Freshman and be starters, play significant minutes, or definitely take someone's starting job. This portion of the season came way too early.

Well, yeah, it's officially the offseason.

[nasdadjr]

i wouldn't say it is "going big"

I would consider any lineup without Davis in it as going big lol

[nasdadjr]

I will say this though and maybe some will disagree and some may not but here is an idea. Play all the young guys. Mack blew two recruiting classes and it has crippled the "Xavier Way." Remember back in early and mid 2000's what the Xavier way was? The Xavier way was built around the older guys teaching the younger guys how it was done. When Mack blew those two recruiting classes along with the losses of Dez and Lyons we lost the senior knowledge and work ethic that had been passed down for the past two decades. With this class along with a sophomore in Reynolds we have the chance to kind of clean the slate and start that over again. And who do we have next year that is the poster boy of what the Xavier way is and how to bust ass and work hard and show up in big games...Matt Stainbrook. He can be the David West or Lionel Chalmers of this new group next year (not as talented of course) and get that fire going again. Let these freshman see...this is how Matt did it this is how we gotta do it to. And I think Stainbrook is the kind of guy who no one in that lockerroom is gonna go against either.

Remember the frustration we had when Justin Cage and Justin Doellman took their lumps their freshman years? It would be tough but it you play the young guys now I think that pays huge dividends for the next decade and gets us back to Xavier basketball and not that shit show we watched last night.

[TUclutch]

I will say this though and maybe some will disagree and some may not but here is an idea. Play all the young guys. Mack blew two recruiting classes and it has crippled the "Xavier Way." Remember back in early and mid 2000's what the Xavier way was? The Xavier way was built around the older guys teaching the younger guys how it was done. When Mack blew those two recruiting classes along with the losses of Dez and Lyons we lost the senior knowledge and work ethic that had been passed down for the past two decades. With this class along with a sophomore in Reynolds we have the chance to kind of clean the slate and start that over again. And who do we have next year that is the poster boy of what the Xavier way is and how to bust ass and work hard and show up in big games...Matt Stainbrook. He can be the David West or Lionel Chalmers of this new group next year (not as talented of course) and get that fire going again. Let these freshman see...this is how Matt did it this is how we gotta do it to. And I think Stainbrook is the kind of guy who no one in that lockerroom is gonna go against either.

Remember the frustration we had when Justin Cage and Justin Doellman took their lumps their freshman years? It would be tough but it you play the young guys now I think that pays huge dividends for the next decade and gets us back to Xavier basketball and not that shit show we watched last night.

This is why it would have been beneficial to see more Brandon Randolph. Dee really didn't bring enough to the team on a consistent basis to warrant Randolph not playing. Would there have been struggles? Obviously. But Dee definitely had way to many himself.

[xavbball]

- Sumner: good handle and bounce and skills to the rim, good in transition, and shot looks decent. He is extremely skinny and just needs time. He has had a growth spurt, they say, and it is fair to ask whether he has grown out of the PG position, especially on defense. Irrespective, defense will be a challenge his first year.

I really like this kid. I can't help but draw similarities with Jeremy Lamb. He'll need to gain a lot of weight, but I think he'll surprise a lot of people.

[XU-PA]

So very difficult to try to name a starting five out of this gang, I mean this is going to be a loaded team on the floor and on the bench..

back court of Remy, Semaj (who knows?) Dee, Myles. BRandolph is a wildcard, showed good ball handling skills this season. How's that for a group that can fill up the basket? Defenses will be screwed on screens.
front court, Stain, J Mart, Farr, Reynolds. Strength and the ability to score inside and out with good percentages even from 3!

Oh yea,,, and then there are freshman???? WOW!!!!
Of course a couple have to go as scholarships are concerned.
Have to think the rest of the basketball world will finally learn how to pronounce XAVIER!

[boozehound]

I'm going to go with:

Christon - Abell - Martin - Stainbrook - Reynolds; Dee Davis will still see a lot of minutes.

I don't expect much from Freshmen. Maybe Blueitt.

[gladdenguy]

First of all, the people who expect Remy Abell to be of Jordan Crawford ability are crazy.
He is a heck of a defensive player and will be the best defender on the court. As for scoring, he will do some but he is nowhere the scorer Jordan Crawford was.

As for the starting lineup. I would assume Semaj, (Dee - really sick of his roller coasters), Remy, Martin, Jalen, and Stainbrook should be in the mix for the 5. When Dee threw that lob pass to Semaj I wanted to throw up when we just needed a bucket on Tuesday. He also threw a stupid fancy backdoor pass to maybe Martin that was turned over. Some games he will give you 0 turnovers and look great (this is why Dee supporters like Brian Snow will throw out stats as if he is one of the top point guards in the Big East). Other games hes absolutely pathetic. And the games where your point guard are pathetic just so happen to be Xavier's bad games as well. I'm hoping in 2 years Sumner can be much more of a consistent point guard.

Then it gets interesting. I would assume Semaj stays and Richards and one of (Randolph, M. Davis, or Farr) leaves. As for the talent of the 3 of those players.....I don't care which one of them leaves. Whomever does stay out of those 2 hopefully has a glorious turnaround ala BJ Raymond, Justin Martin, etc. Now, 2 are only freshman but they have A LOT of improving to do. Myles Davis finishing 1-23 was one of the most pathetic things I've ever seen from a supposed 3 point threat.
Moving on. I hope Blueitt or Macura really proves to be that (first one off the bench type of player that can be counted on) for significant minutes. Throw in whomever out of the 3 I mentioned along with one of the 6 guys who don't start. I'm not expecting much out of London, Sumner, or O'Mara....but I hope for a pleasant surprise from one of them. In the Big East it would be nice to at least have one freshman who can be given significant minutes and can put the ball in the hoop. We didn't have that luxury this year......especially during the conference season.

Here's to next year being a great year with much more experience on the floor.

[DC Muskie]

Samej -He's coming back
Remy
Martin
Reynolds
Stainbrook

Bench
Davis
Blueitt
Davis
Randolph

I think Farr transfers and I don't expect much from the freshman other than Blueitt but not much from him.

[BandAid]

I'm hoping Farr sticks around. He may have some serious holes in his game, but he's most likely our best big off the bench. I'm excited for O'Mara and especially London, but freshman 4s and 5s (unless seriously gifted) typically take a while to adjust.

People have been bouncing the idea of Martin at the 4, which will undoubtedly happen. But based on match-ups and fouls a third legitimate big guy with experience is crucial.

[DC Muskie]

If Semaj stays, someone has to leave, right? I'm betting Farr because he doesn't play defense. And I like Farr by the way. I love stretch fours.

[GoMuskies]

If Semaj stays, someone has to leave, right? I'm betting Farr because he doesn't play defense. And I like Farr by the way. I love stretch fours.

Two people have to leave. We're all assuming Kamall is going, but who knows?

[XU3232]

If Semaj stays, someone has to leave, right? I'm betting Farr because he doesn't play defense. And I like Farr by the way. I love stretch fours.

Someone has to leave regardless. if Semaj stays, then 2 have to leave.

[DC Muskie]

Two people have to leave. We're all assuming Kamall is going, but who knows?

Yeah I would think Kemall and Farr. Just a guess, who knows.

[xu15]

Yeah I would think Kemall and Farr. Just a guess, who knows.

You're right, who knows? We have no idea how this will shake out.

I don't think Farr will leave though unless he's really concerned about starting. Plenty of minutes available for him as our third big man.

Richards is the most obvious choice to leave.

Assuming we get our wish and Semaj is back: I would rather keep Randolph and have Myles transfer, but I think the opposite will happen.

[boozehound]

Yeah I would think Kemall and Farr. Just a guess, who knows.

Myles Davis wouldn't shock me either. We have some pretty talented wings coming in.

[throwbackmuskie]

I could see Martin leaving since he wouldn't have to sit out a year. Not saying I want him to transfer, just point out that is could be an option.

[mohr5150]

Myles paid his own way to school last year. I seriously doubt he leaves. The other transfers that seem to have to happen, I have no idea, nor do I want to speculate. I just know who I wouldn't mind leaving.

[danaandvictory]

Beginning of the season, assuming no unexpected defections: Dee, Semaj, Justin, Jalen, Matt. I would be very surprised if Coach put a three-year starter senior point guard on the bench.

But even if that's the starting five, the rotation guys would likely include Randolph/Myles Davis, Abell, Macura, Bluiett, and Farr, which is pretty strong. (I'll assume Sumner, London, and O'Mara play sparingly for these purposes).

[mistabeecee41]

Beginning of the season, assuming no unexpected defections: Dee, Semaj, Justin, Jalen, Matt. I would be very surprised if Coach put a three-year starter senior point guard on the bench.

But even if that's the starting five, the rotation guys would likely include Randolph/Myles Davis, Abell, Macura, Bluiett, and Farr, which is pretty strong. (I'll assume Sumner, London, and O'Mara play sparingly for these purposes).

He's been starting PG because there hasn't been anybody to challenge him. If Abell is all he's hyped up to be, I still see Dee moving to the bench.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Myles paid his own way to school last year. I seriously doubt he leaves. The other transfers that seem to have to happen, I have no idea, nor do I want to speculate. I just know who I wouldn't mind leaving.

Yeah I highly doubt Myles would want to sit out another season. Would be shocked if he transfers.

[MHettel]

Dont we all believe the coaches will have at least SOME influence on who leaves? It's not JUST up to the players.

There will be minutes available for Farr next year. He's first big off the bench. We have literally no other bigs with experience. We need Farr, and the coaches will tell him that. Even if he WANTED to transfer, the coaches could talk him out of it.

In my mind, Brandon is the opposite. Semaj and Dee are both primary ball handlers. Presumably, Remy can handle the ball like a standard 2. Then Sumner as the 3rd true PG, much like Brandon was this year. No minutes available for Brandon.

I think Myles, having paid his way to XU for a year, will get a little sympathy from the coaches. I think they will chalk it up to a bad slump, and he'll be that shooter off the bench next year. Or, at least the coaches could ENVISION that for next year.

My conclusion is that the 2 guys that make the most sense given the roster for next year would be Farr and Myles, and therefore Brandon will probably be encouraged to, and ultimately will, transfer.

This is the most logical outcome.

[DC Muskie]

Dont we all believe the coaches will have at least SOME influence on who leaves? It's not JUST up to the players.

There will be minutes available for Farr next year. He's first big off the bench. We have literally no other bigs with experience. We need Farr, and the coaches will tell him that. Even if he WANTED to transfer, the coaches could talk him out of it.

In my mind, Brandon is the opposite. Semaj and Dee are both primary ball handlers. Presumably, Remy can handle the ball like a standard 2. Then Sumner as the 3rd true PG, much like Brandon was this year. No minutes available for Brandon.

I think Myles, having paid his way to XU for a year, will get a little sympathy from the coaches. I think they will chalk it up to a bad slump, and he'll be that shooter off the bench next year. Or, at least the coaches could ENVISION that for next year.

My conclusion is that the 2 guys that make the most sense given the roster for next year would be Farr and Myles, and therefore Brandon will probably be encouraged to, and ultimately will, transfer.

This is the most logical outcome.

So you think we will enter the 2015-16 season with one guard on the roster who won't be a freshman? I have hard time believing that.

[throwbackmuskie]

IMO I think Richards is going to transfer. If Semaj stays I think it will be either Martin or Farr (thought I hope he stays). The other option is a someone pulls a McBuckets and gives up their scholarship and becomes a walk-on.

[GoMuskies]

That would be more likely if Mack's kid was on scholarship. Doing that at Xavier without a dad making a million bucks is pretty tough.

[throwbackmuskie]

That would be more likely if Mack's kid was on scholarship. Doing that at Xavier without a dad making a million bucks is pretty tough.

Maybe. maybe not, depends on who dos it and what their family wealth is or if that person is going to make a ton of money at the next level. I don't see it happeneing, but you never know.

[GoMuskies]

The only guy who knows pretty much for sure he's going to make a ton of dough at the next level is Semaj, though. And he'd be nutso to give up his scholly.

[throwbackmuskie]

The only guy who knows pretty much for sure he's going to make a ton of dough at the next level is Semaj, though. And he'd be nutso to give up his scholly.

Again just spitballing. Maybe the Stainbrooks are loaded, he loves the team, maybe he could do it. Again not saying it would ever happen.

[mistabeecee41]

I couldn't see Martin leaving - if he does, that falls on Mack. Lyons was one thing and I know Martin and Mack have clashed in the past, but having multiple issues with top players leaving due to clashing issues with coach would be a problem.

Logically, it all boils down to what Semaj does. If 1 person needs to leave - I'd say it would be Kamall. Who knows with his injury situation though, might not be fair to throw him into the wolves with a torn ACL. If Semaj stays, Randolph would be the most logical 2nd departure. He'd be buried on the depth chart, rumblings about being home sickness and even a twitter mention of health issues with his dad during the season.

Is adult adoption a thing? Maybe Mack can adopt Stain and he can be the 2nd best walkon in new Big East history.

[MHettel]

The other option is a someone pulls a McBuckets and gives up their scholarship and becomes a walk-on.

I'd bet against that.

[MHettel]

So you think we will enter the 2015-16 season with one guard on the roster who won't be a freshman? I have hard time believing that.

So, next year we would have Semaj, Dee, Remy, Sumner, & Myles.

Assume Dee and Semaj both are gone after next year.

So,the following year (15-16) we would have Remy, Sumner, & Myles. So, we'd probably target a pure point and a combo guard as part of the incoming class. So it could be an issue they would have to deal with a year from now.

Alternatively we would have basically the EXACT same issue up front next year if Farr were to leave. Stainbrook and Jalen as the bigs, and then relying on AT LEAST one of teh 2 incoming freshmen to be ready, if not BOTH.

[DC Muskie]

So, next year we would have Semaj, Dee, Remy, Sumner, & Myles.

Assume Dee and Semaj both are gone after next year.

So,the following year (15-16) we would have Remy, Sumner, & Myles. So, we'd probably target a pure point and a combo guard as part of the incoming class. So it could be an issue they would have to deal with a year from now.

Alternatively we would have basically the EXACT same issue up front next year if Farr were to leave. Stainbrook and Jalen as the bigs, and then relying on AT LEAST one of teh 2 incoming freshmen to be ready, if not BOTH.

All I'm saying is we play in a league that is dominated by guard play. Poor guard play we become Marquette circa 2013-2014.

I'd rather have a problem with bigs then out front with guards trying to compete with Nova, St. Johns, GTown, and Providence.

[xu15]

So, next year we would have Semaj, Dee, Remy, Sumner, & Myles.

Assume Dee and Semaj both are gone after next year.

So,the following year (15-16) we would have Remy, Sumner, & Myles. So, we'd probably target a pure point and a combo guard as part of the incoming class. So it could be an issue they would have to deal with a year from now.

Alternatively we would have basically the EXACT same issue up front next year if Farr were to leave. Stainbrook and Jalen as the bigs, and then relying on AT LEAST one of teh 2 incoming freshmen to be ready, if not BOTH.

I will be the first to admit that I don't know what's going to happen. I don't even know if Mack does yet.

That said, the people who think Farr is the most likely to leave aren't thinking. Mack will do all he can to get him to stay. He NEEDS a 3rd big man for next year. Farr would also have a great opportunity to start as a senior.

[GoMuskies]

We've got two big guys in the incoming class. They wouldn't have to be particularly advanced to provide as much offensive production and defensive help as Farr provided in the post January 1 portion of the year.

[mistabeecee41]

I will be the first to admit that I don't know what's going to happen. I don't even know if Mack does yet.

That said, the people who think Farr is the most likely to leave aren't thinking. Mack will do all he can to get him to stay. He NEEDS a 3rd big man for next year. Farr would also have a great opportunity to start as a senior.

Farr's not going anywhere - he knows he has a chance at big minutes next year. Guys like Randolph and Richards could be frustrated because they haven't been given much of a chance. Jimmy was given a chance, he just didn't produce. He knows that - it's on him, not Mack.

[Pluto]

Don't forget someone could prep a year somewhere to get bigger/stronger.

[Thor in 204]

Don't forget someone could prep a year somewhere to get bigger/stronger.

That might be Sumner or London, and I would guess it would be London, from hearing about his size. If he's not yet big enough and strong enough to play in the Big East, and with Matt still here, he could set himself up for a much more productive freshman year after a year of prep school

[MADXSTER]

That might be Sumner or London, and I would guess it would be London, from hearing about his size. If he's not yet big enough and strong enough to play in the Big East, and with Matt still here, he could set himself up for a much more productive freshman year after a year of prep school

You never ever let top 100 kids go to prep school to get bigger....EVER. Prep school is always for kids to get themselves qualified or didn't get recruited. Why let a kid out of a commitment to let other schools start recruiting him.

[MADXSTER]

If Semaj stays I think it will be either Martin or Farr (thought I hope he stays). The other option is a someone pulls a McBuckets and gives up their scholarship and becomes a walk-on.

It's the opposite. If Semaj stays Martin is more likely to stay. They play very well together. In either case, I don't see Martin leaving at all.

[boozehound]

You never ever let top 100 kids go to prep school to get bigger....EVER. Prep school is always for kids to get themselves qualified or didn't get recruited. Why let a kid out of a commitment to let other schools start recruiting him.

Agree. No way we let any of these kids prep, unless they can't qualify academically.

[xukeith]

No question Blueitt is the real deal. One of three best player in his state. Would not be surprised to see Macura get some minutes. Like Blueitt he scores in buckets and he can flat out do it all.


Brad Redford was THE real deal in Michigan. Remember?
We will see come December. I hope Farr does what he did last off season!

[james notsirhc 0]

Brad Redford was THE real deal in Michigan. Remember?
We will see come December. I hope Farr does what he did last off season!

Blueitt plays in the best high school basketball city in the nation. Big difference.

[ballyhoohoo]

Blueitt plays in the best high school basketball city in the nation. Big difference.

He's also a 6'6 bucket getter who has old man at the park game. Redford was a 6'0 three point specialist. No similarities.

[muskienick]

Keith would probably find fault with a DaVinci sculpture, a Pavarotti aria, and a Jenna Jameson bedroom scene. Chris Mack and the Xavier players have no chance to rate highly on the "Keith Scale" of basketball coaching and playing.

[BandAid]

Keith would probably find fault with a DaVinci sculpture, a Pavarotti aria, and a Jenna Jameson bedroom scene. Chris Mack and the Xavier players have no chance to rate highly on the "Keith Scale" of basketball coaching and playing.

Did I miss something? What are you talking about?

[muskienick]

Did I miss something? What are you talking about?

See above where Keith questioned Trevon Blueitt's abilities comparing him to Brad Redford even though he's about 6" taller than Brad. plays a different position, and unlike Brad, was named a Parade All-American.

[BandAid]

See above where Keith questioned Trevon Blueitt's abilities comparing him to Brad Redford even though he's about 6" taller than Brad. plays a different position, and unlike Brad, was named a Parade All-American.

I'm still not seeing it. What oes that have to do with DaVinci, Pavarotti, or Jenna Jameson?

Are they Brad Redford or Trevon Bluiett?

[brownlavender]

I'm still not seeing it. What oes that have to do with DaVinci, Pavarotti, or Jenna Jameson?

Are they Brad Redford or Trevon Bluiett?

He's clearly stating that bluiett is going to be a stud. If you cant see that then you need to get your eyes checked out

[XUhockey99]

Random thought regarding scholarships - Is there any way one of the incoming kids could become a preferred walk-on for a year and possibly get an academic scholarship? I've read on here before that O'Mara was a smart kid and that he chose Xavier in part because of academics. I'm not sure of the ins-and-outs of scholarships or if that'd even be allowed. If it's been mentioned before - my bad.

[XfansinKy]

Random thought regarding scholarships - Is there any way one of the incoming kids could become a preferred walk-on for a year and possibly get an academic scholarship? I've read on here before that O'Mara was a smart kid and that he chose Xavier in part because of academics. I'm not sure of the ins-and-outs of scholarships or if that'd even be allowed. If it's been mentioned before - my bad.
I have thought the same thing. At least have the administration help with grants and potentially scholarships that may pertain to a major.

[Juice]

Random thought regarding scholarships - Is there any way one of the incoming kids could become a preferred walk-on for a year and possibly get an academic scholarship? I've read on here before that O'Mara was a smart kid and that he chose Xavier in part because of academics. I'm not sure of the ins-and-outs of scholarships or if that'd even be allowed. If it's been mentioned before - my bad.

My understanding is that is against the NCAA rules

[GoMuskies]

My understanding is that is against the NCAA rules

It is. A kid with an academic scholarship can only join the team if he went unrecruited by the school for the particular sport.

[LA Muskie]

Random thought regarding scholarships - Is there any way one of the incoming kids could become a preferred walk-on for a year and possibly get an academic scholarship? I've read on here before that O'Mara was a smart kid and that he chose Xavier in part because of academics. I'm not sure of the ins-and-outs of scholarships or if that'd even be allowed. If it's been mentioned before - my bad.

No. If he was recruited any grant in aid would count against the limit.

[Snipe]

IMO I think Richards is going to transfer. If Semaj stays I think it will be either Martin or Farr (thought I hope he stays). The other option is a someone pulls a McBuckets and gives up their scholarship and becomes a walk-on.


That would be more likely if Mack's kid was on scholarship. Doing that at Xavier without a dad making a million bucks is pretty tough.

I could see Stain giving up a ship next year and his little brother getting a one year ship down the road to pay the family back.

[xuinmd]

Snipe, now that we are being creative how about Stain giving up his scholarship for a year and little Stain a full academic ride.

[Muskie]

Snipe, now that we are being creative how about Stain giving up his scholarship for a year and little Stain a full academic ride.

If little stain receives any academic scholarship that would count against the cap. (Pretty sure).

[LA Muskie]

I could see Stain giving up a ship next year and his little brother getting a one year ship down the road to pay the family back.

Won't work. Stain was a recruited scholarship player and would count against the limit whether he takes it or not.

[Muskie]

Won't work. Stain was a recruited scholarship player and would count against the limit whether he takes it or not.

Then how does Doug McDermott get away with it ? (I assume because he's not getting any academic scholarship).

[Juice]

Then how does Doug McDermott get away with it ? (I assume because he's not getting any academic scholarship).

I believe he gets free tuition because his father is an employee of the university.

[LA Muskie]

I was wrong. If the player takes no financial aid at all they don't count against the limit. That's what Dougie is doing. He is paying his own way, full freight.

[LA Muskie]

I believe he gets free tuition because his father is an employee of the university.

Nope. He didn't qualify (Greg hasn't been there long enough). They are paying his full tuition, room and board.

[TUclutch]

Nope. He didn't qualify (Greg hasn't been there long enough). They are paying his full tuition, room and board.

This. McDermott is making enough money it shouldn't matter. He'll get his money back next year if he really wants it.

[XUFan09]

I was wrong. If the player takes no financial aid at all they don't count against the limit. That's what Dougie is doing. He is paying his own way, full freight.

I believe Andre Drummond of UConn did that too.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[THRILLHOUSE]

guess it's time to take another stab at this now that JMart is gone

Dee Davis-Remy Abell-Trevon Bluiett-Jalen Reynolds-Matt Stainbrook

[GoMuskies]

guess it's time to take another stab at this now that JMart is gone

Dee Davis-Remy Abell-Trevon Bluiett-Jalen Reynolds-Matt Stainbrook

Not completely awful, but our bench might be.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'll take another shot at this when I find out Mack isnt leaving. Otherwise it could change too many times the players to pick from.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Dee Davis - Brandon Randolph - Edmond Sumner
Remy Abell - Myles Davis - JP Macura
Trevon Blueitt
Jalen Reynolds - James Farr - Makinde London
Matt Stainbrook - Sean O'Mara

This is not a spectacular team, but not a bad team. I like Justin Martin but every time the kid put the ball on the court I cringed in TO anticipation. He was also hot and cold from the field. I still like the kid and was looking forward to his 5th year of college at XU. We are not better without him.

[muskiefan82]

The only truth is that X will start at least 2 guards and 2 forwards and either a center or another guard or another forward. Three of them might be Abell, Davis and Stainbrook.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I still like our team. Who knows, maybe Bluiett is the real deal and can give us 10ish points a game similar to Dez and Semaj freshman campaigns. There's always the possibility of us getting a graduate transfer or JUCO player as well. Time will tell I guess.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

I like Martin. A senior with proven skills is always a good thing. He was not very productive until last year, and now he is leaving. What a shame...... it's a big loss for X.

[XUOHTX]

Bluiett
Macura
O'Mara
Sumner
London

Fab Five. Done.

[Thor in 204]

Good Luck to JMart. Hope he finds a place where he can flourish. Besides being a very talented player, his reputation is that of a good person and teammate. No way we have the season we had last year without him. It was great to see him come into his own as a player.

[Thor in 204]

Having said the above, wtf is going on here. The silence of X admin/AD about support for Chris Mack is deafening. Maybe there's some wisdom behind all this, but on the other hand it may be a mess of asinine incompetence and internal politics. Maybe the powers that be passionately support the basketball program. I'd like to see some kind of statement soon. The longer there's no statement about the direction of the program the more it would appear to be leaderless and in disarray. Couldn't blame players or coaches for leaving if that's the case. If there are problems holding up a resolution, have to think it is from administration, as I couldn't imagine a competent AD not wanting to keep Chris Mack at least for a while longer.

[Muskie]

Having said the above, wtf is going on here. The silence of X admin/AD about support for Chris Mack is deafening. Maybe there's some wisdom behind all this, but on the other hand it may be a mess of asinine incompetence and internal politics. Maybe the powers that be passionately support the basketball program. I'd like to see some kind of statement soon. The longer there's no statement about the direction of the program the more it would appear to be leaderless and in disarray. Couldn't blame players or coaches for leaving if that's the case. If there are problems holding up a resolution, have to think it is from administration, as I couldn't imagine a competent AD not wanting to keep Chris Mack at least for a while longer.

I don't get this sentiment. What exactly is the administration supposed to be doing? Are they supposed to hold a press conference and say we are working on an extension? What are people looking for?

[casualfan]

I don't get this sentiment. What exactly is the administration supposed to be doing? Are they supposed to hold a press conference and say we are working on an extension? What are people looking for?


If they truly are working on an extension they could start by leaking it to some of the local press so people know.

[xu82]

Having said the above, wtf is going on here. The silence of X admin/AD about support for Chris Mack is deafening. Maybe there's some wisdom behind all this, but on the other hand it may be a mess of asinine incompetence and internal politics. Maybe the powers that be passionately support the basketball program. I'd like to see some kind of statement soon. The longer there's no statement about the direction of the program the more it would appear to be leaderless and in disarray. Couldn't blame players or coaches for leaving if that's the case. If there are problems holding up a resolution, have to think it is from administration, as I couldn't imagine a competent AD not wanting to keep Chris Mack at least for a while longer.

FIX IT! This hurts the basketball program (and consequently the school) and makes you question the leadership of the university. This is a hot steaming mess and I'm not even sure if they know it! They seem to care little about the future of the program that put the school on the map. If they want to move on in terms of the coach, this would NOT be the right way to go about it. If they want to keep him, this would NOT be the way to go about it. It's a decent to above average school known for one thing, primarily. (If they don't know that they are delusional.) Don't mess this up.

[xu82]

I don't get this sentiment. What exactly is the administration supposed to be doing? Are they supposed to hold a press conference and say we are working on an extension? What are people looking for?

I would prefer getting the extension done, but that's me. I know some are less sold on that than I am. Maybe that will happen in the morning, but this seems to have been dragging on forever which does not inspire confidence. "Lesser" schools have pulled it off much more easily. If I knew what the problem/hold up is it would be easier to handle, but this whole thing is perplexing to me. (Not the first time that's happened, though.)

[Thor in 204]

I don't get this sentiment. What exactly is the administration supposed to be doing? Are they supposed to hold a press conference and say we are working on an extension? What are people looking for?

I seem to remember that when Thad Matta and later Sean Miller were in discussions about leaving, there were statements to the press along the lines that X hoped to keep the coach here and were working to try to accomplish that. Absent such a statement, it is left wide open for potentially deleterious speculation. I guess their hands are tied if they really hope Chris Mack will take another job.

[Muskie]

If they truly are working on an extension they could start by leaking it to some of the local press so people know.

Maybe neither side wants that made public?

[xu82]

Maybe neither side wants that made public?

Maybe, it's just so damn frustrating. If they are trying to get a deal done, it should be done already. But what is it I/we don't know (besides almost everything)?

[james notsirhc 0]

Mack's a great coach but I don't think he's done much to earn a lucrative extension. I'm fine with seeing this play out rather than have some massive deal we're tied into. Most of Mack's success was with Miller's toys.

[XfansinKy]

I've supported Mack all I can. Truth is if it was the dream team Mack would screw it up n we all know it with our brains not our hearts. How many of his recruits even stayed? Even though, go Xavier!

[throwbackmuskie]

I've supported Mack all I can. Truth is if it was the dream team Mack would screw it up n we all know it with our brains not our hearts. How many of his recruits even stayed? Even though, go Xavier!

Another stupid comment about transfers. Some of you all really need to get over the transfer thing. It happens a lot, all over the place. As for leaking to the press, there really is not any good local press for Xavier around here. the "beat writer" isn't even full time for X. Frankly I do not think she is very good at all. And let's not forget Mack was the lead recruiter for "Miller's Boys". I really think too many want to create rumors and rumblings of issues just to make the offseason more interesting.