The Syracuse Orange (3-0) men's basketball team embarks on a journey away from Central New York as they take on the Texas Longhorns (3-1) in the opening night of the Legends Classic. The game is set to tip at 7:00 on ESPN2 from the Barclays Center, and here's a closer look at what to keep an eye on:

Unraveling the Key Aspects of the Syracuse-Texas Showdown

Szuba: Containing Tre Johnson

Texas freshman Tre Johnson has made a sensational start to his college basketball career, breaking Kevin Durant's record for most points by a freshman in a debut with an impressive 29 points. This former McDonald's All-American, who played alongside Donnie Freeman, is a highly skilled three-level scorer with a deep range that complements his smooth shooting stroke. Syracuse has faced challenges on defense, and with Johnson standing at 6-foot-6, he poses a tough matchup. The question remains: Who on the Orange is capable of taking on the task of containing Texas' leading scorer? 2: Johnson's scoring ability is not just limited to his shooting. He has a great sense of timing and can create scoring opportunities for himself in various ways. The Orange's defense will need to be on top of their game to prevent him from getting easy buckets. It will require a collective effort from the players to disrupt his rhythm and limit his scoring potential.

Kevin: Corner Shots for Chris Bell

Chris Bell has had a rough start to the season, shooting only 4-18 from 3 in the first three games. A closer analysis of his numbers reveals that he has made 2-4 on corner 3s and 2-14 on long-distance attempts from the wing or top of the key. The coaching staff needs to find more ways to get Bell involved from the corner to help him get his shooting stroke back. One possibility is to utilize Eddie Lampkin's passing to set up Bell for corner shots. Additionally, getting into transition could provide Bell with opportunities to sprint to the corner for a drive and kick shot. If Syracuse wants to have a chance in this game, they need to start knocking down some 3s. 2: Bell's shooting struggles have been a concern for the team, but there is still hope. By focusing on corner shots and taking advantage of the team's offensive strategies, he can regain his confidence and become a more effective shooter. The coaching staff will need to work closely with him to refine his shooting technique and help him make the necessary adjustments.

Mike: Free Throws and Their Impact

A main factor in Syracuse's close games has been their lackluster 63.6% free throw rate. The free throw line is supposed to be a source of easy points, and the Longhorns certainly don't need to be denied those opportunities when their own offense is running smoothly. Eddie Lampkin, in particular, needs to improve his free throw shooting. Last season, he was 66% from the line, but in the game against Youngstown State, he made only 4/10. If Eddie can be more active underneath and convert his early foul shots, it will help loosen up the perimeter and give the team more scoring opportunities. 2: Free throws can often be the difference in close games, and Syracuse needs to make the most of their opportunities. Lampkin's improvement in this area will be crucial for the team's success. By focusing on his free throw shooting and making it a priority, he can have a significant impact on the outcome of the game.

Sam: Using Eddie Lampkin to Open Up the Game

One of the reasons why Texas has been so strong defensively this season is Kadin Shedrick's presence around the rim. However, if Eddie Lampkin can draw Shedrick out of the post by forcing him to guard the high-post, elbows, or even out to the perimeter, it will create opportunities for cutters to drive to the basket. Lampkin had seven assists against Youngstown State, and the Orange are 85th percentile in perimeter cutting efficiency with him on the floor. Additionally, some hi-low action between Lampkin and Donnie Freeman can help generate paint points against a team that has been effective at preventing such plays. The key is to keep the ball out of the hands of Texas' dangerous guards in transition and slow the game down with deliberate cuts and actions through Lampkin. 2: Lampkin's ability to manipulate the defense and create scoring opportunities for his teammates is a valuable asset. By using him effectively, the Orange can exploit Texas' weaknesses and gain an advantage on the court. His passing and court vision can open up the game and lead to more scoring opportunities for the team.

Dom: Maintaining Offensive Pace

After a slow start against Ohio State, Texas has scored 89+ points in three consecutive games and has won each by at least 30 points. Syracuse's defensive concerns could be exacerbated against a productive Longhorns offense. In addition to preventing turnovers that lead to transition points, Syracuse's top offensive options will need to have another strong performance to keep the Orange in the game. Expect a high-scoring contest regardless of the final result. 2: Maintaining an offensive pace is crucial for Syracuse to stay in the game against Texas. Their offensive players need to be aggressive and make smart decisions to keep the score close. If they can match Texas' scoring output, they have a chance to pull off an upset.

Max: Aggressive Defense

The Texas offense is known for its ability to score at will and does so with a low turnover rate (11.5%, 5th best in DI). Syracuse, on the other hand, has struggled to force turnovers, averaging just four steals per game (339th). Adrian Autry needs to have his team come out with a more aggressive defensive approach against the Longhorns. By shortening the game and stealing as many possessions as possible, Syracuse can increase their chances of winning. 2: Aggressive defense is essential in a game against a team like Texas. The Orange need to be physical and disrupt Texas' offensive rhythm. By forcing turnovers and creating fast-break opportunities, they can turn the tide of the game in their favor.