The eye test tells me that this BYU basketball team seems to have much more upside than last years, which I think we all can agree was a good team. 5th in the Big 12 was no small feat for BYU being in its first year in a brutally tough conference.

Demin is the real deal. Khalifa was out best passer last year and did lots of damage from the high post. But Demon looks to be incredible. His court vision is the best I have seen at BYU maybe ever. I now understand why NBA scouts are salivating at his talent. I think he is almost certainly a lottery pick. Its too bad that BYU couldn't keep him for a second year.

Catchings is a true stretch 3 and IMO an upgrade from Jaxson Robinson. I loved JR last year, but Catchings is something altogether different. And he will probably be a first round pick as well and could move into lottery status.

Saunders is improved and is not just an effort andglue guy, but can be a weapon in the scoring threat.

Knell seems more relaxed and I think will have a better shooting year.

And Hall hasn't even played yet. It will be interesting to see how he and Egor fit together. Last year BYU did not have someone really capable that could come in when Hall was on the bench to play an effective point guard. What I expect is that Egor will likely play at the 2 or 3 to start or that Hall and he will switch off running point, but when one goes to the bench the other will be able to lead the team. There won't be as nearly as big of a drop off as there was last year. BYU often had to go with JR at the point when Hall went to the bench.

Keita is a force inside but isn't a black hole offensively.

Boskovic gives BYU even more length but can also stretch the floor from the 3 point line.

Baker will also contribute a ton.

And that doesn't even include Kozlowski and Crawford. Crawford especially seems to be a real talent.

If this team can gel as a unit, and continue to improve I think they could threaten for a top 4 team in the Big 12.