Johnnies lose two, but keep a big one

St. John’s announced two transfers Wednesday, but it was a player not involved in the news who may represent the most important development.

Darien Williams and Malik Ellison will leave the program, but Ellison’s departure seems to indicate Marcus LoVett Jr. will be coming back to St. John’s. A source told The Post “all signs are pointing to his return,” and the coaching staff expects the dynamic guard, an All-Big East rookie team selection who averaged 15.9 points and 3.8 assists, will be back.

After the season ended, sources said LoVett was considering going pro. When asked if he would return, LoVett told The Post: “I don’t have an answer for that.”

LoVett’s father, Marcus LoVett, told The Post no decision has been made, but wrote in an email it makes sense for his son to be back.

“A return works for both [parties],” he wrote. “Marcus will be one year from completing undergraduate studies and more improved as a basketball student to better his chances later for whatever level of basketball he reaches.”

Ellison — the son of former NBA player Pervis Ellison — is leaving, a source said, over playing-time concerns. While he started 26 games this season, and averaged 24.8 minutes per game, the sophomore guard was likely going to be replaced in the starting lineup by Arizona transfer Justin Simon, and would have at best been the fourth guard behind Si mon, LoVett and Shamorie Ponds. Another source, this one close to Ellison, said his decision was “personal,” and Ellison felt he needed a fresh start.

Ellison will have to sit out next season, and has two years left of eligibility.

The 6-foot-8 Williams served a significant role off the bench, but was also looking at a diminished role with the addition of Marvin Clark Jr., a transfer from Michigan State. Williams will graduate and be eligible immediately.