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| Deandre Burnett(1) will be taking his scoring ability out of Coral Gables(Photo Credit: Getty Images) |
Canes Rising Contributor
Following last week's crushing defeat in the NIT Championship game, fans consoled themselves by noting that the 'Canes were slated to return everyone of consequence next season. That's no longer the case, as guards Deandre Burnett and Manu Lecomte have both requested releases, and are both expected to transfer. The official twitter account of the Miami Basketball program (@CanesHoops) reported the news Wednesday afternoon. While losing both of these talented student-athletes is disappointing, it's hardly surprising, as Burnett has been unable to fully integrate into Jim Larranaga's system, and Lecomte has been passed by freshman Ja'Quan Newton.
The loss of Lecomte means that it's officially the Angel Rodriguez & Ja'Quan Newton show at the point . Fans should expect to see Davon Reed get some time at the position as well, especially against teams with larger guards. The biggest loss in regards to Manu is his ability from beyond the arc, but that may be offset by Miami's new found length on the perimeter. Players like James Palmer will play additional minutes, making Miami a more dangerous defensive team. Burnett is a talented scorer, but his defense was always suspect, and that made him a guy who was always fighting to stay out of Jim Larranaga's doghouse. Because of that, Burnett's role was going to be a hired gun coming off the bench, a source of instant offense. For a player who was used to starring and dominating at the high school level, that proved to be a tough pill to swallow. These are transfers that benefit both the players and the program. The 'Canes are losing depth, but gaining flexibility for the future, especially if Miami can land a graduate transfer for next season. While we will all miss Lecomte's bombs from beyond the arc, and we will miss 'Dre's aggressive drives, this is what's best for them, and hopefully they can find success at the next program they choose to join. Those programs are getting talented players who will represent their institutions well.
Please stay with 'Canes Rising, as we keep you informed of any other moves that may develop.
Update (4/11)--The rumors about Omar Sherman leaving The U are unfounded, as multiple reports confirm that the freshman forward plans on returning to Miami next season. There hasn't been any indication from @CanesHoops that Sherman has asked for a release.
Update (4/21)--Manu Lecomte is transferring to Baylor, according to multiple media outlets. Lecomte will be joining a team that went 24-10 last season, losing to Georgia State in the Round of 64 of the NCAA Tournament.
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