The Kentucky Wildcats are now entering an offseason period where they have to make a stay-or-go decision.
For years, BBN's mantra has been to expect a completely new roster, and that seems to still be the case this season. So far, the focus has been primarily on the NBA Draft, but John Calipari and his staff are hoping for a strong showing this season.
In the latest mock draft by The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor, we had four Wildcats hear their names called.
Coach O'Connor, leading the University of Kentucky, sent Reed Shepard to the Utah Jazz with the ninth pick. This is notable since O'Connor recently had Shepard ranked No. 1 overall. Perhaps with a rough end to Shepard's season and more scrutiny applied to him, his stock may drop enough that a return to Kentucky isn't as far off as once thought.
Shortly after, O'Connor projected Rob Dillingham to play for the Chicago Bulls as the Windy City's No. 11 pick.
From there, the next player to hear his name called will come in the second round as Justin Edwards heads to the Portland Trail Blazers with the 40th overall pick. DJ Wagner is expected to be the last player to have his name called on draft night, with O'Connor expected to go to the Detroit Pistons with the 51st pick.
Overall, it would be a solid showing from the UK program, but this is another mock draft that doesn't feature Antonio Reeves yet. Will the talented guard be available for selection in the coming months? My guess is yes, but even if he goes undrafted, he could still have a long NBA career. It's good to see him getting a good salary soon.
Over the next few days, we should start hearing rumors about where players are leaning. However, don't be shocked to see all four underclassmen heading to the NBA. That's what history has taught us to expect unless told otherwise.
