As an eternal optimist, I predict a tourney team, and that Coach Groce will keep his job. Barring another slew of injuries, this team has enough experience, shooting, and depth to make the tourney.
We have our unquestioned #1 option in Malcom Hill. We have an elite 3 point shooter in JCL to open up the court. We have legit post players in Thorne, Morgan and Black. Finke could become a tough match-up with his ability to stretch the floor, and his exceptional vision and passing ability.
If we can get average PG play, we have a tourney team. Abrams should be well-rested
I would imagine that Jaylon's shot will improve. After his rough off-season, he might be a little more focused than others, and let's not forget that his injury affected his shot last season. I think he'll surprise Illini nation next season and become quite a valuable player.
I haven't even mentioned DJW (really came on strong late last season, great energy) AJ (he was lost admittedly, let's hope this off-season helps) Tajon (a true PG, will be a nice back-up PG option at the very least) Kipper (intriguing potential) Alex Austin (pretty nice 12th or 13th guy to have around. He's certainly serviceable and can help this team win if the younger guys don't develop.
Groce will be able to throw a lot of different line-ups at the opposition. And just having average PG play this year, will allow the Illini to run a version of Groce's offense, which has not happened the last two seasons.
Fingers crossed, but I'm rooting for a Sweet 16 run and will be ecstatic for our guys if they achieve it. Please note that I am not predicting a Sweet 16, just saying that it is achievable if the guys buy into each other. Keep in mind the Illini beat a decent tourney team in UAB when we were at full strength last year. There is reason to be optimistic.
If the team comes together and has good chemistry, as fans we are going to enjoy this upcoming season more than any other in recent memory. Granted that is a fairly low bar that has been set.
On a side note, I really hope Groce doesn't add any more 5th year transfers. With everything that has happened over the last nine months to this team, I don't think we need to add any more players.