Offseason roundup

It's only May, but it has already been an interesting offseason, hasn't it?  Let's take a look at what has changed, and whether we think it will be a net positive or negative.

Out:  Stacey Palmore
In:  Yasir Rosemond
Verdict:  Net positive.  Stacey Palmore, by all accounts, was a hard worker and a good coach.  Unfortunately, he failed to produce consistent results on the recruiting trail.  Enter Yasir Rosemond, a Georgia native with extensive local ties, as well as some west coast ins.  It was a given that Fox was going to prioritize southeast recruiting when filling the position.  Time will tell, but if it's not a home run hire, it seems to at least be a ground rule double.

Out:  Donte' Williams, John Cannon, and Tim Dixon
In:  Yante Maten, Osahen Iduwe
Verdict:  Push.  The loss of three post players on a team desperate for presence in the paint would normally rate just below terrifying.  However, the recruiting wins soften that blow.  I have made no secret of the fact that I think Donte' Williams was under-appreciated, which is why I call this a push.  With Cannon and Dixon, there is no productivity to replace, but Williams brought some defensive presence to the paint that two freshman may or may not be able to replicate.  Long term I think these two guys are going to be a fantastic duo.  Next season, though, I would settle for them maintaining the status quo while hoping the guard play continues to improve.  If they exceed those expectations?  That will only be good for Georgia.

Out:  Postseason or bust attitude.
In:  NCAA tournament or bust attitude.
Verdict:  Net positive.  I thought Fox should have been fired.  I admit it.  That didn't happen, but the next best thing did.  He was clearly put on notice that certain things have to change, and while McGarity denies it, I suspect it was strongly implied that Georgia should be dancing next season.  And you know what?  They should.  Barring the unforeseen (injury or attrition), this lineup is veteran enough and talented enough to get a double-bye in the SEC tournament and a 6 or 7 seed in the NCAA tournament.  Anything less should be considered a failure, and I get the sense those in Butts-Mehre agree with me.

All the verdicts, of course, are pure speculation, but it's May, and I'm happy with where the program is at.  That has to mean something, right?