You can’t replace the leadership, play-making and bubbling enthusiasm of Jonny Flynn.

You certainly can’t easily overcome the loss of trio Jonny Ice, Devo and Paul Harris.

But the Ol’ Perfesser seems to be making a case for Wes Johnson, telling Andy Katz he’s “the real deal” and proclaiming this year’s front court as “one of the best we’ve had here for many, many years.”

The¬†6’7″, 195-pound Iowa State transfer garnered some decent hardware in the Upper Midwest.

Johnson was a member of the All-Big 12 rookie team his freshman season, honorable mention for All-Big 12 as a sophomore and two-time conference player of the week.

Interestingly, he was not heavily recruited coming out of prep school. He chose the ‘Clones over Charlotte and San Diego State (and choosing Ames, Iowa over anything is notable in itself).

He’ll be¬†tackling the LeBron James Skills Academy, which¬†The Fizz can only hope ends with a Wes Johnson Nike puppet ad campaign.

Ladies and Germs, the Wes Johnson Era is about to commence.