Tread Gently with Kentucky

Kentucky had a successful 2018-19 campaign, placing with a 30-7 record en route to an Elite Eight berth before falling to Auburn in overtime. No doubt head coach John Calipari will have the Wildcats playing at a high degree, but he’ll need to enter the season with rather a different look. Four of Kentucky’s starting five will be very 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 moving pro.
All isn’t lost, however, since the Wildcats have done a good job recruiting for the upcoming season, procuring two 2019 McDonald’s All-Americans, shooting guard Tyrese Maxey and small forward Khalil Whitney. I expect sophomores Immanuel Quickley and E.J. Montgomery to lead the charge and will work well with the incoming freshmen. With their new look, I’d be hesitant to lay a wager on this club in +500 at this stage.
Kansas May be Well-Balanced and Experienced
Kansas had a very interesting 2018-19, revealing flashes of brilliance along with being ranked in the top five in the AP poll for eight months, including two weeks at the top spot. The Jayhawks finished the year with a 26-10 record, falling to Auburn. Kansas was a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde club when it arrived to house and away splits, going a perfect 16-0 in Allen Fieldhouse but only 3-8 in true road games — quite confusing results.
The Jayhawks had to battle through injuries, losing guard Lagerald Vick for its season in early February. He’s a senior and will not be back next year. Additionally center Udoka Azubuike and nine matches played . However, Kansas, despite those big holes in the frontcourt and backcourt needed a Round of 32 appearance. The Jayhawks should be feisty this upcoming season as I don’t expect Azubuike to be drafted and Vick will be their sole loss, so chances of +2000 provide decent value.

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