Michigan rumors: ACC transfer emerges as potential Yaxel Lendeborg replacement

Yaxel Lendeborg capped off his memorable senior year in the best way possible: Winning the national title with Michigan in the NCAA Tournament.

Lendeborg was a two-way force for the Wolverines all season, averaging 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks. He earned numerous accolades, including Big Ten Player of the Year and nods to the Consensus All-American First Team, All-Big Ten First Team, and Big Ten All-Defensive Team.

With his exit, Michigan will have big shoes to fill. According to on3.com’s Jamie Show, one possible replacement for Lendeborg is Neoklis Avdalas. It has been reported that Avdalas is planning to enter the transfer portal after one year at Virginia Tech.

“Things have been pretty quiet around the recruitment of Neoklis Avdalas this cycle. There have been some reports around the 6-foot-9 forward and various schools. One school that I am expecting to make a run at the Virginia Tech (player) is Michigan,” wrote Shaw.

“With Yaxel Lendeborg out of eligibility and Morez Johnson and Aday Mara most likely testing the NBA Draft waters, there will be some opportunity available in the Wolverines frontcourt.”

Avdalas, who hails from Greece, averaged 12.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and a team-high 4.6 assists in 31 games for the Hokies.

While he may not be as strong and physical as Lendeborg, he has the versatility and size to be a central piece for Michigan.

According to SB Nation’s Chris Beasmore, Kentucky is also interested in Avdalas, even holding an online meeting with the talented freshman.

Some notable names who have already entered the transfer portal are Florida’s Flory Bidunga, Houston’s Isiah Harwell, Penn State’s Kayden Mingo, BYU’s Robert Wright III, and Oregon’s Jackson Shelstad.

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