Big Ten Basketball Preseason Power Rankings: 1-7

4. Purdue

Mar 14, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Purdue Boilermakers guard P.J. Thompson (3) celebrates with center A.J. Hammons (20) as they enter a timeout against the Wisconsin Badgers during the first half in the semifinals of the Big Ten Tournament at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

2014-15 Record: 21-13 (12-6)

Key Players:

C A.J. Hammons, Sr

G Rapheal Davis, Sr

F Caleb Swanigan, Fr

C Isaac Haas, So

F Vince Edwards, So

G Kendall Stephens, Jr

Outlook:

This Purdue team has the potential to be the best we have seen in a while. The Boilermakers have a solid balance of talent in the backcourt and frontcourt.

Look for Purdue to dominate the paint, as they have a pair of 7-footers, as well as one of the nation’s top recruits in Swanigan. This team also features a couple players who can stretch the floor and beat you from the perimeter.

The talent is certainly there. Whether or not the Boilermakers are actually ready to take the next step is a totally different story. Purdue should very well be in contention for the Big Ten title this season. Don’t be surprised if they make a deep run late into March either.

Projected Record: 24-5 (13-5)