Kansas Jayhawks: Five Bold Predictions For The Rest Of The Regular Season

Jan 10, 2015; Lawrence, KS, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Wayne Selden Jr. (1), forward Jamari Traylor (31), guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (12), and guard Devonte Graham (4) celebrate – Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

THE KANSAS JAYHAWKS SEEK TO WIN THEIR 11TH STRAIGHT BIG 12 REGULAR SEASON

The Kansas Jayhawks (15-3) have had a turbulent year that includes two-blowout losses, a few impressive, true road victories, and a near home-loss Monday night against the Oklahoma Sooners.

It seems head coach Bill Self has started nearly as many lineups as games, and put a freshman or two in his dog house – which is pretty much par for the course each year.

While it has been a bit of a bumpy road, KU is still tied for first in the Big 12 Conference as they try to earn an unprecedented 11th-straight conference crown. Despite the fact it has been a hard-to-prognosticate season, here are some bold predictions that will come true by the end of the regular season.

1. Devonte’ Graham will be the key to the Jayhawks’ success 

Sure, Devonte’ Graham may look like he was in middle school last year, but his game resembles something closer to polished college senior. Graham’s stats (6.2 points, 2.2 assists, .8 steals, in 16.2 mins per game) may look pedestrian, but if you dig deeper, and even beyond, the box score, there is more than meets the eye.

His confidence and swagger should not be overlooked, especially for a freshman, and the way he handles the ball is more than enough reason for him to be on the floor.

His 3-to-1 assist/turnover ratio is by far tops on the team – he would be tied for 21st in the country if he had enough games played to qualify. Since he returned from a month-long absence due to turf toe, he has 17 assists (4.3 per game), to just one turnover in 75 minutes. He can also shoot the long ball.

While Perry Ellis, Frank Mason III, Kelly Oubre, Jr., and Cliff Alexander contribute more to the stat sheet, Graham will need to stay healthy for this team to have a shot in March – especially after the transfer of Conner Frankamp.

Mason could be the MVP of this team, but if he gets hurt, Graham would be the last line of defense between the Jayhawks having a good point guard, or just having someone playing the point guard position.

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