2011 CBB Predictions & Gambling Preview: Connecticut Huskies (Big East)
Last year the Huskies were picked to finish 9th in the Big East. If they hadn’t won the Big East tournament they might have sat out the Madness leaving someone else to become champs. This year, even without Kemba Walker, the expectations are much higher, but justifiably so.
That is because they should be more of a team this year. As usual this team has plenty of size to bang down low but they should also be more balanced. The Kemba Walker show was impressive but sometimes guys were watching too much. If everyone plays their game they can definitely win the conference and make some noise thereafter. Jeremy Lamb is a player and he has reinforcements in some top freshmen.
Additions
Andre Drummond – Best big guy recruit in country, has NBA body already.
DeAndre Daniels – a very athletic wing player, can his skinny frame hold up?
Ryan Boatright – He might be the answer as a unselfish distributor.
Subtractions
Kemba Walker
Key Players
Jeremy Lamb – Possible conference player of the year.
Alex Oriakhi – Strong inside presence.
Shabazz Napier – Will try and fill Walker’s shoes, at least in terms of running the team. [soliloquy id=”82219″]
Strengths
This team always had good size and a strong defensive presence in the paint. They need it to compete in the Big East but as it showed in the tournament it can still be a formula for winning a national championship. Many knocked that championship game but don’t forget that the Huskies made Butler very uncomfortable out there with their defense. With the addition of Drummond they have a hugh body that is also super talented. He just broke his nose so he might ease into the season but when he figures it out the rest of the Big East will feel it.
Weaknesses
This is a good team but you have to wonder who is going to step up and make the plays that Kemba Walker did last year. In so many games he was the difference and they are expecting Jeremy Lamb to fill some if not that entire void. Will they be able to win the close games it will take to compete in the Big East and on the national scene without that proven go to guy? We will see.
Post Season
Of course, but repeating as Champions will be very tough. Sweet Sixteen depending on matchups.
Championship Odds 12/1
Projected wins 27-29
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