Fat Cat Friday: Everything but the kitchen sink!

Rutgers’ roster for next year is still being filled out, but one returning contributor that the Scarlet Knights will have back is forward Aundre Hyatt. The 6-foot-6 graduate forward is expected to play a big role this year and could be his most important season on the banks.

Forward Mawot Mag is likely to still be recovering from his ACL tear when the season tips off in November and Hyatt is likely to take over much of his role in the interim. In addition to helping the Scarlet Knights make up for Mag's absence, Hyatt also feels he can take on some of the responsibilities left by Caleb McConnell's departure.

"I think with Caleb [McConnell] leaving, it opens up room for me to have a bigger role," Hyatt told Scarlet Nation during a recent WFAN event in Belmar, N.J. "I feel I can do more on the court by scoring, rebounding, defending and I feel like I’ll be able to show that next season."

Rutgers will also have some new faces coming into the program in freshmen Gavin Griffiths and JaMichael Davis, along with UMass graduate transfer Noah Fernandes.

"Gavin is a stud - he's [6-foot-8], he can shoot the ball, he can dribble, he can pass," Hyatt said. "Having the transfer Noah [Fernandes] and the other pieces that we’ve picked up is going to be great to add to our culture. I feel like with the new additions coming to our program, we’ll have a good season."

In addition to the new arrivals, Hyatt is also excited to see the development of promising underclassmen like Antwone Woolfolk and Derek Simpson - both of whom saw their roles increase down the stretch last season.

"I think from the guys that return, we have really good key pieces," Hyatt said. "I’m excited to see the development from Derek, Antoine Woolfolk, and Antonio Chol."

As the offseason continues, Hyatt keeps on working to improve his skill set. In the gym, Hyatt has been placing a particular emphasis on improving his offensive game.

"I’m focused on my dribble pullup, finishing around the basket, and just staying consistent," Hyatt said.

Ultimately, Hyatt feels he has more to give to Rutgers this coming season, and he's optimistic about what he can do alongside his teammates.

"I feel really, really good about going into the next season," Hyatt said. "I'm just really excited to get this thing going."