re: Simmons Victor/ Martin Mickey

Player for player, the loss of Martin is at minimum, canceled out by the gain of Simmons. Martin was a good college player and just starting to become a great college player at the end of this season. But frankly, Simmons should be everything we hoped Martin would be

Mickey is a big loss. While he may never be a great pro (who knows), he was the most impactful of the two throughout their careers. As others have pointed out, his on ball defense wasn't always great (or even good at times), but he was a presence inside. The fear of his shot blocking abilities (not seen here since Tyrus Thomas) altered shots and many times changed opponents' plan of attack against LSU. Plus, he was an outstanding rebounder and (absent the last month) a good finisher at the rim.

Victor is an unknown right now. I think he can come in and help fill the rebounding void and possibly the offense, but nothing I've seen from him indicates he can be the rim-protector Mickey was (not many can at the college level). Also, at least at this point, he will only be eligible for half of next season

Mickey gave up some buckets, but he also made up for A LOT of defense lapses by his teammates. Sadly, for many his impact won't be appreciated until next season. LSU might be as skilled as ever on the offensive side next season. However, with 2 (possibly 3) freshman playing a big role on the team and Musselman moving on, I worry about the defensive side of the ball. LSU was VASTLY improved on D this season. Will that continue? It will have to if LSU has any desire to move further than the 1st round of the NCAAT.