A few predictions from Luke DeCock.

All-freshman team

Devon Bookert, Florida State

Shaquille Cleare, Maryland

Marcus Paige, North Carolina

Rodney Purvis, N.C. State

Rasheed Sulaimon, Duke

Rookie of Year

Rasheed Sulaimon, Duke

Sulaimon is capable of replacing the scoring lost with Austin Rivers’ early exit to the NBA, and he’s a better fit with Duke’s philosophy to boot.

3 impact freshen outside N.C.

1. Shaquille Cleare, Maryland – The other Shaq comes from the Bahamas and is Maryland’s most highly regarded forward recruit in years -- and the ACC’s top-rated recruit who isn’t going to Duke, North Carolina or N.C. State.

2. Devon Bookert, Florida State – From Alaska to Tallahassee, with a stop in prep school in the middle, Bookert is a top-quality point guard who should play extensively for the Seminoles.

3. Mike Tobey, Virginia – Someone has to replace Mike Scott for the Cavaliers. This 6-11 center from New York state has the best shot of anyone.

3 breakthrough sophomores

1. P.J. Hairston, North Carolina – Despite a much-publicized shooting slump, Hairston posted good numbers in limited playing time and has the potential to be an explosive scorer with more opportunities this season.

2. Quinn Cook, Duke – Never healthy as a freshman, Cook struggled at times and never showed his true ability. With a clean bill of health, he should give the Blue Devils the point-guard play they lacked last season.

3. Patrick Heckmann, Boston College – Mononucleosis wiped out a big chunk of the German shooter’s season, but he should be able to step in and replace the departed Matt Humphrey’s scoring.

3 players on rebound

1. Leslie McDonald, North Carolina – Missed all of last season with a knee injury, and the poor-shooting Tar Heels desperately missed his long-range ability.

2. Pe’Shon Howard, Maryland – Between a broken foot to start the season and a torn ACL to end it, played only 14 games.

3. Terrance Shannon, Florida State – Dislocated his shoulder in the eighth game of the season. Will fill void inside left by Bernard James’ departure.

3 sharpest shooters

1. Scott Wood, N.C. State – To date largely a spot-up shooter, has worked in offseason on developing new ways to get open.

2. Reggie Bullock, North Carolina – So tough to defend with his length (6-foot-7) and quickness. Will get more looks this year.

3. Michael Snaer, Florida State – Just as dangerous with the jump shot as he is putting it on the floor. Clutch.

-- Luke DeCock