I hope we can renew the UCLA matchup for another 2 years, at least. That, along with the Duke game, guarantee us a Sat/Sunday out of conference game that will be nationally televised.
The Duke game this year propelled Moe into the draft, and likely made him a 1st rounder. Lavin can sell that to kids, that he's going to schedule the UCLA, Duke, Kentucky type games every year. If he had that game against Rutgers or Pitt on a Weds night... it's nice, but it doesn't mean much. Like dropping 30 on Providence.
But people remember those nationally televised non-conference games. And I'm not sure a game with Illinois would guarantee us a slot on Sunday afternoon on CBS.
So if UCLA is over, I hope the staff is looking at Kentucky (who may have an opening now), Indiana, Michigan State, Arizona, Kansas, Michigan, Florida, Ohio State... teams at that level.
Also, with 'Cuse and Pitt leaving, we're down two possible "premier" home games. Having another marquee out of conference opponent to alternate with Duke, will be a bump to our attendance, and a nice treat for season ticket holders.