What a tough break for somebody who figured to get a lot of playing time this year.
Playing in a summer league game, Florida G DeVon Walker tore his ACL. The recovery time is expected to take more than the upcoming season, meaning he’s as sure a bet as any to receive a medical redshirt and get a do-over for his junior season at Florida.
In the meantime, though, this does hurt the Gators for this year, but not as much as people might think. Billy Donovan brought in two highly touted freshmen guards in Brandone Francis and Chris Chiozza, and now both figure to see some more playing time. Then there’s Rutgers transfer Eli Carter, who was very highly thought of before getting hurt and missing all of last year. The three of them, plus preferred walk-on Zach Hodskins, should be able to fill Walker’s spot pretty well.
Walker started seven games last year, averaging 2.5 points, so it’s not like Florida loses a ton of experience with his injury, either. Just a lot of talent. Now Donovan will have to wring some production of unproven talent anyway, just in the form of different names.
