Yesterday it was announced that forward Jaylen Carey committed to Mizzou. The 6’8 Tennessee transfer has also spent time at James Madison and Vanderbilt and will have one year of eligibility remaining. 

Carey will provide a strong option at the four or five, playing in every game for the Vols last season and starting eight of them. He is a domineering presence in the paint, hauling in 7.4 points and 6 rebounds per game last year while averaging just 18.5 minutes. At 270 pounds, he is bulky, and uses this size to work hard off the ball on both ends of the basket. Carey also boasted monstrous offensive rebounding numbers, ranking top-20 in the nation in offensive rebounding percentage. 

Offensively, Carey is a capable big man, often finding success in high ball screen scenarios. He is a solid passer, skilled at finding open shooters on the perimeter and cutters effectively. Carey is athletic and strong with solid footwork, making him a tough guy to guard in the post-up. While not the most versatile or efficient, he is a reliable big man, and will slot in very well with this Mizzou lineup.

I would not expect him to start, but rather come off the bench for one of Trent Pierce, Toni Bryant or a possible starting center (Bryson Tiller??). However, if Dennis Gates does not pick up another proven post man, Carey is a qualified option to fill a starting role. There are plenty of possibilities, and the tenacity and strength of Carey can also combine incredibly well on the glass with the height and reach of Trent Burns. 

My hope is that Carey is not the gem of the transfer class, and I doubt he will be with the current ties Dennis Gates has in the portal. Regardless, Jaylen Carey is certainly a strong start.