Regardless of what they are or are not, Lucas and Traylor were 3 star recruits never expected to be more than role players. Mickelson is in his 2nd season under Self and is a solid player. In fact, he was very good in the World Univ games.
Actually, Self's players are nearly always much improved after a year or two.
Did you happen to notice that this year's edition of KU is the same crew minus a top 15 pick (and another top recruit), yet they're far, far superior to last year's?