Keeper: Patrick Patterson, Kentucky

Crimson & Bluebloods
On Sunday, March 15, 2009 at 9:33am, Crimson & Bluebloods elected to keep Patrick Patterson, Kentucky. This past season could have been described as the "Lexington Letdown". With two superstars and a decent supporting cast, a disappointing trip to the NIT was certainly unexpected. But the ensuing Gillespie-Calipari drama immediately placed Kentucky front and center for next year. Though it is still unknown if Patterson will return to play for John Calipari, after declaring for the NBA draft on April 15, 2009, his decision looks like a coinflip.

One of the most proficient scorers in the country, Patrick Patterson was a man among boys for the most part. While shooting better than 60% from the floor, Patterson averaged 18 points on 11 shot attempts per game. An absolute beast in the post, he has improved dramatically on both ends of the floor. Offensively, no one is better at carving out space in the paint, using a variety of post moves for easy finishes. On the defensive side, Patterson grabbed two more rebounds and blocked one more shot per game since his freshman year.

With an NBA-ready frame, Patterson looks destined to jet to the pros. But at 6'8", he is considered undersized. Scouts have already stated he needs to work on some off-hand moves to be effective at the next level, and improve on playing with consistent energy and aggression. Though his 7'2" wingspan can overcome a lack of height for his position, he could benefit from another year in school, especially under the Calipari "pro-style" regime. With some highly touted prospects joining the Kentucky team, big men DeMarcus Cousins and Daniel Orton, defenses won't be able to collapse on Patterson for much longer. But the verdict is still out on his decision to return, at least until the June 15th deadline.

Crimson & Bluebloods shocked the league this past year, winning it all by the narrowest of margins. With no true superstars on the roster, Patrick Patterson was the only consistent starter each week. He absolutely carried his team at the beginning of the season, and was a key playoff contributor in the final weeks. Finishing 3rd in overall scoring, Patterson averaged just over 30 FCHP with 5 double-doubles. Crimson & Bluebloods got the most out of their 2nd round pick: an average of 18pts, 9reb, 3blk, 2ast, 1stl in 15 starts. If Patterson decides to stay in Lexington for one more season, the franchise cornerstone could set the table for another run at the title.