Andrew Bogut, JJ Redick, Wayne Simien, and Chris Paul are the candidates. It’s a tough call. The college player of the year is always a tough call… the talent is so spread out, there are so many different styles of play, and most people are playing against different levels of competition.

I think you can eliminate Simien… when you compare big men, I think Bogut gets the nod. He’s got slight edges in scoring and rebounding, and in general, has a bigger impact on games. That leaves Paul, Redick, and Bogut… and it really comes down to personal preference. If you like a point guard that can control the game and break down a defense, take Paul. If you like a guy with a complete offensive game from the perimeter, with a knack for hitting clutch shots and free throws, take Redick. If you like a big man with a scoring touch and great vision, take Bogut.

If I had to pick one… I’d go with Redick, but I’d understand if you went the other way. He’s such a huge part of Duke’s offense, and when he’s on, he’s pretty much unstoppable. You can say the same for any of the three, I guess, but… Redick’s still playing, and Paul is not. And Redick’s played against a higher level of competition than has Bogut.

For what it’s worth, though, I think all three will make very good NBA players.