Former Kentucky Wildcats in the NBA: The Complete Road Map

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

NERLENS NOEL
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS

It’s been too long, but Nerlens is ready to make his regular season NBA debut. Noel played in just four preseason games, averaging 8.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. It should be noted that Noel had 9 steals in his last two games so it looks like we can expect Nerlens to be a defensive force in his rookie season. It’s not out of the realm of possibility that he can average a double double this year.

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PATRICK PATTERSON
TORONTO RAPTORS

You have to give Patrick Patterson credit for developing a long range shot. Patrick did not his a three pointer in his first two years in the league, but he drained 55 last year. And in Toronto, he shot 41.1% from long range. Patterson will get quality minutes as Amir Johnson’s backup and will get the occasional start. For the season, Patterson averaged 8.5 points and 5.3 rebounds a game but if his shots are dropping, he can put up points in a hurry off the bench.

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TAYSHAUN PRINCE
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

After starting all but four games over the last 11 seasons in the NBA, Tayshaun starts his 13th season in an unaccustomed role … coming off the bench. Prince had his lowest scoring average since his rookie season and a career worst shooting percentage last year (40.7%). For the season, Tay averaged just 6.0 points, 3.1 boards, and 1.6 assists. With his minutes reduced, he should be able to stay fresher and have a bit of a rebound year.

Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

JULIUS RANDLE
LA LAKERS

Julius should get minutes backing up Carlos Boozer and it is going to be fun to watch Randle develop. Remember, Julius is still 19 and turns 20 on November 29th. He had a few rough preseason appearances, but finished the last five games averaging 8.8 points and 5.0 boards. If he can average in the 20 minute range, Julius will put up some nice numbers.