If Illinois cannot add either Richmond or Lanier, the next highest rated guard/wing is probably 6'5" Wooga Poplar of Miami. He averaged 13.1/4.8/2.1 this past season, shooting 42.6/38.5/86.4. He played against good competition in the ACC, he's experienced, and he has solid numbers. Illinois could do a lot worse than getting a transfer in from Poplar.
Actually, 6'6' Minnesota guard Cam Christie is probably rated higher than Wooga Poplar. I think that Christie would actually blossom as a 2-guard for the Illini, greatly improving his ranking for the 2025 NBA Draft. Boswell as PG, the fast-paced Illinois offense, and body by Fletch would seem perfect for Cam Christie. But it seems like Christie and family are not fans of Illinois men's basketball? Maybe that can change....
Richmond should be the top priority. He's a legitimate all American candidate and he should bounce back and be at least an average 3 pt shooter. The toughness and physicality he plays with really stands out.
Poplar would be my second choice after him. Great shooter, good size, can get to the basket and finish. Just a very well rounded player.
Lanier just had a breakout year and has good size for a guard. Had an incredible year shooting the ball but does kind of have a low release. I would take him but don't know if I would count on him to be the focal point of an offense like you could with the other two.
Christie isn't coming here and honestly would be my 3rd choice of the group. Smooth shooter that can pull up off the dribble but did struggle to finish around the rim. Ton of upside but I would go with the proven vets in Richmond and Wooga.
Seems like the current focus is on Demin at the moment and he's getting mocked as a lottery pick so good upside there. If they do manage to reel in Demin I still wouldn't mind seeing them get a veteran guard to pair with him. Probably can't afford Demin and Wooga but would be very excited by the combo.
Some other cheaper options with some upside could be Jordan Lathon from Morehead st, Ken Evans from Jackson St, Miles Kelly from GT, and a personal favorite in Cedric Coward from EWU(stupid efficient possibly the most underrated player in the portal).
Could also see some guys pull out of the draft become available or even go into D-2 and pull a bench player.