Tread Gently with Kentucky
Kentucky had a successful 2018-19 campaign, putting together a 30-7 record en route to an Elite Eight berth before falling to Auburn in overtime. Undoubtedly head coach John Calipari will possess the Wildcats playing at a high level, but he’ll have to enter the season with quite a different appearance. Four of Kentucky’s starting five are likely to graduate or be drafted into the NBA since Reid Travis is an old and P.J. Washington, Keldon Johnson and Tyler Herro will likely be going pro.
All is not lost, though, as the Wildcats have done a good job recruiting for the upcoming season, procuring two 2019 McDonald’s All-Americans, shooting guard Tyrese Maxey and little forward Khalil Whitney. I expect sophomores Immanuel Quickley and E.J. Montgomery to lead the fee and will work well with the incoming freshmen. With their brand new appearance, I’d be hesitant to put a bet on this club at +500 at this stage.
Kansas Could be Well-Balanced and Experienced
Kansas had a very interesting 2018-19, showing flashes of brilliance and being ranked in the top five at the AP survey for eight weeks, including 2 weeks at the top spot. The Jayhawks finished with a 26-10 record, falling to Auburn in the Round of 32. Kansas was a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde club when it arrived to home and away splits, going a perfect 16-0 in Allen Fieldhouse but only 3-8 in true road games — very confusing results.
The Jayhawks had to battle through accidents, losing guard Lagerald Vick for its season. He is a senior and will not be back next year. Additionally, junior center Udoka Azubuike and nine games played with in 2018-19. But Kansas, despite those big holes in the frontcourt and backcourt needed a Round of 32 look. The Jayhawks must be feisty this forthcoming season as I do not anticipate Azubuike to be drafted and Vick will be their sole loss, so odds of +2000 provide adequate value.
Read more: parkviewpantherfootball.com