College Basketball
The Starters
Duke’s starting 5 is as talented as it has been in years. With a true point guard in Tre Jones, shooting guard with Cam Reddish, small forward RJ Barrett, power forward Zion Williamson, and most likely center, Javin DeLaurier.
RJ Barrett
RJ Barrett will undoubtedly be Duke’s unquestioned leader. From shooting beyond the arc to finishing around the hoop, the Canadian Freshman can do it all. Of course, playing on a team with as much talent as the Blue Devils this coming season, Barrett won’t be their only scorer. Regardless, an 18 year old kid who was among the best on his Canadian National team this past summer, one that featured many other Canadian NBA players, will get the bulk of the touches.
Season Prediction:
Points – 18.5
Assists – 3
Rebounds – 6
Steals – 1.5
Zion Williamson
Arguably the most electric player in the nation already, Zion Williamson will be a man on a mission. Constantly being told all he can do is dunk, the freshman forward will be looking to prove everyone wrong. While on Duke’s Canadian Tour, Williamson proved that not only he could shoot it, he was graceful around the rim as well. On top of his offensive ability, expect Williamson to lead the team in rebounding and blocked shots.
Season Prediction:
Points: 14
Assists: 2
Rebounds – 13
Blocks – 2
Cam Reddish
Cam Reddish has been injured over the summer and did not play on Duke’s Canadian tour. Though not talked about as much as Williamson and Barrett, he will likely be Duke’s best shooter. It would not be a surprise if Reddish is Duke’s leading scorer. Expect Reddish to begin the season as the starting shooting guard.
Season Prediction:
Points – 15
Assists – 2.5
Rebounds – 4
Tre Jones
Tre Jones will likely be the most important piece to the Blue Devil’s National Title run. The younger brother of Tyus Jones, Duke fans can expect a similar game style from Tre. Not afraid of the bright lights and a dominant passer with top notch court vision..
Season Prediction:
Points – 8.5
Assists – 9.5
Rebounds – 2
Steals – 1
Javin DeLaurier (Most Likely)
Prior to the Canada tour, it was assumed by most that DeLaurier would be Duke’s first or second option off the bench. Post Canada tour, it seems that DeLaurier locked up the starting center position for himself. This season, he will be depended on for rim protection and rebounding, not so much offense. Fans can expect him to find himself with a ton of open layups because of the talent around him.
Season Prediction:
Points – 5.2
Rebounds – 8.5
Assists – 3.5
Photo credit to john maday via Flickr
