Duke vs. San Diego State: Key storylines to watch in the Maui Invitational matchup

Could a balanced attack be the key to beat Duke?

Until Duke loses their first game, the analysis of how to beat them will be going on all the time. From an offensive standpoint, it’ll truly take a team effort to outscore the Blue Devils. Kentucky wasn’t able to do that, with only three players scoring over nine points in the game.

Just like last season, San Diego State has all five starters that are averaging double figures in scoring. They’re led offensively by Devin Watson, averaging 17.0 ppg and 5.5 apg to lead the team. Matt Mitchell is scoring over 15 ppg also, while sophomore Jordan Schakel taking a huge leap in year two, going from a few points a game to double figures himself.

For the Aztecs to have any shot, it’ll depend on the efforts of sophomore Jalen McDaniels. The 6’9 forward is currently averaging 14.5 ppg and 9.0 rpg, along with three assists and steals on average. He’s considered a projected first-round pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, so a huge performance from him in the Maui Invitational can raise his stock even more. He’ll likely be Williamson’s primary defender throughout the game, making this a golden opportunity for the sophomore to make a name for himself on the national stage.

But to be clear, it’ll take a lot more than just McDaniels having a big game to win. All five starters – and even a few bench players will have to have career-high efforts to keep the Aztecs in the game.