Credit: Go Duke

Last year, it was the Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett show and deservingly so for Duke.  Those two produced at a high-level day in and day out but now, those days are in the past and new names are looking to make their own impact this year for the Blue Devils.

This year’s team looks and feels different, especially with how they get after it on the defensive end.  There were some early questions on the offensive end though but we are clearly starting to see those questions get answered in what this Duke team may be able to produce this season.

Yes, they did return some key, experienced players including point guard Tre Jones.  However, the answer for Duke may be in the production of their big men, especially with the play of 6’10 freshman Vernon Carey Jr.

Regarded as one of the top recruits in the country, Carey is showing early on why he is considered one of the top prospects when he comes out.  He had a slow start to the season, as he didn’t quite get the opportunities many would expect.  In his first two outings, he scored 11 points in each but only had 13 total shot attempts.  Now, in his past three games, Carey has averaged 14 shot attempts, 22 points per game, 12 rebounds, and two blocks per game.  This includes him coming off a 31-point dominating performance vs. Cal in the 2K Empire Classic recently.

Carey is such a unique talent as a big man.  He moves incredibly well on the floor, both inside and out, and has a nice blend of touch and strength.  Against California, Carey showed just how productive, nimble, and versatile this big, 270-pound prospect can be.  He has the range and touch to step outside and knock down perimeter shots, but he also can be an absolute dominating figure on the boards.

With his ability to impact the game in so many ways as a dominating figure down low, the Blue Devils may have found out early what the key will be if they want to cut down the nets in the end.  Of course, this is a team loaded with talent and still blending together, but to give the Blue Devils a dominating figure down low to go along with their physical guards, it could be the ultimate recipe for success.