It's a tough situation. As it stands right now, I would assume he is a project type player destined to go in the second round. Keep in mind he has some significant red flags. NBA teams will scrutinize the hell out of his anxiety issues, no way someone gives up a first for the risk that carries.
Now, let's fast forward a year. He ups his 15 foot jumper %, continues to improve at the line, gets his anxiety under control. Now what's he worth? Royce jumps from a 2nd round project to an absolute stud making top 10 money.
I understand he has a family. I understand he could get injured, although the Lion seems very durable. These would seem to push him to go as quickly as possible. But the risk, at least from my casual observer's chair, seems to be worth the reward.
It seems to me that Royce like basketball. I honestly don't think he is in love with it. I think he understands he is good, and can make a living. That leads me to believe that he will, ironically, stick around one more year. You see, the money becomes huge at that point. He doesn't have to toil and earn the big pay day after working through his rookie contract.
As I look at it, at least to me, it becomes more evident why he should stay IF Coach and Royce determine that he can break into the first round. Not only is the money that much bigger, but it's guaranteed. It could not only mean a difference on multiple millions of dollars, it could mean the difference of him actually seeing the money. That one extra year in college seems far more valuable to me than one year as a second rounder playing in the NBA. The earnings potential in the short term leans toward the NBA. But the long term potential is dramatically in favor of one more season.
I've had a great time watching CFH, Royce and the entire Cyclones team this year. I'm sure the young man will get the best advice possible. Regardless of which path he chooses I earnestly hope it pays off for him. He deserves it.
