In the 2015-2016 season the Duke Blue Devils finished the regular season with a 25-11 overall record, and had a early exit in the NCAA Tournament. This upcoming season will be a whole different story. Coach K was able to pick up top 2 recruits Harry Giles and Jayson Tatum. They even picked up two top 15 recruits Frank Jackson and Marques Bolden. Duke will have returnees/Captains, Amile Jefferson,Grayson Allen, Matt Jones, and returnee but not captain Chase Jeter. Dukes lineup will be hard to make with this stacked team, but here is my projected lineup.
Point Guard – Frank Jackson
Frank Jackson from Washington, D.C. He ended his highschool career with over 20 PPG. He had an amazing high school career and has even showed off his hops, he won the MCDAAG Slam Dunk Contest. I compare him to Young D-Wade, he can really jump and shoot the ball with consistency and doesn’t often turn the ball over. Projected Stats- 16.1PPG 6Assists 3Reb.
Shooting Guard – Grayson Allen
Grayson Allen entering his junior year with high expectations. He was a Wooden award nominee and was one of the country’s top scorers. He is looking to win another National Championship and possibly declare for next years NBA Draft. Projected Stats- 21.1PPG 5Assists 6Reb
Small Forward – Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum the 6’8 #2 recruit from St Louis,MO is looking to start off his college career just like he ended his Highschool career…BEASTLY!. He was one of HS top scorers and was the #1 SF and chose Duke after Harry Giles. I compare him too Danny Green, he is fast,athletic and can really shoot the ball has top-tier range and for him having a bad shot is rare.
Power Forward – Amile Jefferson
Amile Jefferson the 5th year returnee will make a return after a devastating leg injury to end his 15-16 campaign. The amazing defender and rebounder is the teams #1 captain and is looking to make a statement since he is returning from injury. The country’s top rebounder looks to lead Duke to a 6th National Championship. Projected Stats- 11.5PPG 4Assists 9Reb
Center – Harry Giles/Marques Bolden
With Duke announcing Harry Giles will receive surgery and needs 6 week recovery Duke will need to start #15 ESPN100 player Marques Bolden, The 18-year-old announced his commitment late after he had trouble deciding between Kentucky and Duke but chose Duke. Projected Stats – 9.1PPG 2Assists 6Reb. Harry Giles #1 HS Player chose Duke, he is looking to have an amazing year. Most likely a one and done if things go planned. Projected Stats – 16PPG 4Assists 7Reb
Hope You Enjoy, Follow My Twitter @WeingartenJake to vote on which team I’ll profile next.
