E'Twuan Moore and JaJuan Johnson returning to school?

In an article from the Indy Star, both E'Twuan Moore and JaJuan Johnson are quoted as saying that they will be returning to Purdue for their senior seasons.

In situations like this, we always warn you to take these quotes with a grain of salt.

This is especially true for Johnson and Moore. The last week has been extremely disappointing for the Boilermakers. They lost Robbie Hummel for the season on Thursday, sending them from Final Four contender to potential first round upset. Then on Sunday, Purdue lost to Michigan State at home, ending their hopes of an outright Big Ten title.

With a bitter taste that fresh in your mouth, it would only make sense that Moore and Johnson would say they want to return. They are competitors, and having such a successful season likely ruined this late in the year is no doubt disappointing.

Like I've always said when dealing with NBA Draft early entries, don't assume anything until it is official.

That said, Moore and Johnson are not exactly John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins. Don't get me wrong, both are fantastic college players (I'd put Moore on the top 10 most underrated players list), but neither is really flying up NBA Draft boards. Johnson's a jump shooting center that lacks NBA bulk. Moore is undersized and lacks the athleticism of most NBA two-guards. Both players would be smart to return to school.

So if the Boilermakers get Johnson, Moore, and Robbie Hummel back, where does that leave them next season?

The loss of Chris Kramer's defense and leadership will hurt, as will the graduation of Keaton Grant. But Kelsey Barlow and John Hart have both shown flashes of potential this season. Depending on what happens with guys like Evan Turner, William Buford, Kalin Lucas, and Demetri McCamey, Purdue could very well be the Big Ten favorite next season.