Well, in EJA's absence, how much experience did you expect those 4 guys to realistically get? In all likelihood, EJA is going to play, probably at best, 20 mpg.
Probably not true to reality, but let's suppose those are evenly distributed amongst the 4 players you named. Is it your belief that 5 mpg was going to make a significant difference in their preparation for 2021-22? I don't.
And if Pons actually does leave early, then it's a wash. Perhaps the staff was planning ahead in preparation for that event by taking Anosike. EJA makes a whole heck of a lot of sense as a one year replacement for Pons in the post. You still have senior leadership and immediate production at the 4 spot, and you still get your younger posts experience. Only you're splitting it 3 ways instead of 4, without Cardwell.