Inside the Loud House
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Syracuse Basketball: Player Grades for the 2016-2017 Season

By Josh Peelman

Nov 15, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; The Syracuse Orange lettering at mid-court prior to a game against the Holy Cross Crusaders at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 15, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; The Syracuse Orange lettering at mid-court prior to a game against the Holy Cross Crusaders at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports /
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PF- Taurean Thompson

Syracuse
Syracuse Orange Forward Taurean Thompson. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Grade: A-

Boy, did I want to rank Taurean Thompson higher. He played so great as a freshman, and really showed a lot of potential and ability. His stroke from mid-range is automatic. In addition, his ability to put the ball on the floor and score around the hoop gave me flashbacks of CJ Fair.

I think his height is a huge factor in why he became a matchup nightmare near the end of the season. He got a lot of rebounds near the end of the season, and when he got an open look, he hit it. He became a consistent fourth scorer down the stretch, much like fellow diaper dandy Tyus Battle was, which was much needed. I expect he will be even more improved after an offseason full of work as well.

The only reason I mark him as low as an A- is his defense in the zone. Boeheim got so mad at him on so many occasions for missing guys behind him. Some mistakes were just inexcusable. It’s great you can score, but if your opponent scores against you consistently, then that outweighs how much you score on offense.

Next year, I project he will come in just as talented, but with even more ability to hit from three. I think he will pick up a few pounds so he can muscle inside in the post more next year. In addition, I see him as a consistent option next year on offense, as well as a better low post defender. If he can learn to be smarter giving fouls and block more, he’ll be a dangerous asset for Syracuse. I project a grade of an A next year for him.

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