Duke Basketball: Analyzing the Blue Devils' rotation for 2018-19

Duke Basketball: Analyzing the Blue Devils’ rotation for 2018-19

CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 14: Head coach Mike Krzyzewski of the Duke Blue Devils gives instructions to his team against the Michigan State Spartans during the State Farm Champions Classic at the United Center on November 14, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. Duke defeated Michigan State 88-81. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

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DURHAM, NC – DECEMBER 02: Javin DeLaurier #12 of the Duke Blue Devils goes to the basket against Tyler Hagedorn #25 of the South Dakota Coyotes at Cameron Indoor Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

Power Forward

Minutes Allocated (40 total): Zion Williamson (16), Javin DeLaurier (16), Joey Baker (5) and Justin Robinson (3)

After a few spectacular games, Trae Young of Oklahoma became the most scrutinized player from last season. Even before a single game is played, it’s clear that Williamson will be that guy for the 2018-19 season.

He was a highlight reel machine and even at 275-pounds is considered one of the best athletes in basketball. If he was a couple of inches taller he might have been the clear-cut No. 1 prospect out of high school. He’s suited to play the power forward position in college but could do other spots if his play improves in key areas. Williamson would have to improve his ball handling to play on the wings and has to prove that he can rebound at a high level to be a center.

In that case, the 6’10 DeLaurier would be the ideal replacement. After not playing much as a freshman, he was a solid backup big for the Blue Devils. His defense was great overall while grabbing 12.4 rpg per 40 minutes. DeLaurier isn’t an elite offensive player but that won’t be an issue for the team as long as the freshmen live up to the hype.

If spacing is needed in a small-ball scenario, Baker will get some playing time at the four. The same with Robinson, a rising junior who played very well when the injury bug affected Duke’s frontcourt last season. That should earn him at least the chance to appear in more than just half the team’s overall games.

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