By LARRY VAUGHT

When Kentucky was heavily pursuing Nerlens Noel and Shabazz Muhammad last season, Draftexpress.com’s Matt Kamalsky kept telling me not to underestimate the potential of Alex Poythress and Acrhie Goowin.

He’s not changed his mind, either, about what the two players could do for the Wildcats this season.

“Archie Goodwin and Alex Poythress are among my favorite long-term pro prospects playing college hoops this fall,” Kamalsky said.

Why?

“Goodwin is a perfect fit for the dribble drive offense. He’s a good ballhandler, he’s quick, he’s a great leaper, and he’s not at all shy about attacking the rim or finishing under duress. If he shows progress as a perimeter shooter, he’s going to be considered one of the best shooting guard prospects in the country,” Kamalsky said.

And Poythress?

“Poythress has all the physical tools to be a great NBA small forward and has shown remarkable development in his skill set over the past year and change. He is so versatile on the offensive end for a player his age, and it seems like he keeps finding more ways to impact the game as he’s matured,” Kamalsky said. “If he can become a reliable 3-point shooter, get stronger, and learn to make the most of that strength when attacking the rim, he can be a special talent.”

How special?

“Even with how highly touted he is coming in, I think Poythress has the potential to be to surprise of this UK recruiting class,” Kamalsky said.