NCAA Basketball: Ranking 2019-20 National Player of the Year candidates

Duke is one of the most talented teams in the nation every single year and that is once again going to be the case in 2019-20. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski did an exceptional job this offseason securing commitments from some of the top prospects in the 2019 recruiting class to fill out his roster after the graduations of several key players such as Williamson and R.J. Barrett. Those stars will not be easy to replace but there are pieces ready to step up. Vernon Carey, the No. 6 overall recruit in the country, is near the top of that list as a potential star.

A physically imposing 6-foot-10 big man, Carey projects as one of Duke’s focal points during this coming season. On the offensive end of the floor, Carey is most well-known as an interior scoring threat. He boasts plenty of post moves and uses his size to consistently win matchups in the paint. Additionally, though, he has a soft touch on his jumper and is showcasing plenty of shooting potential all the way out to 3-point range. This versatility will be key for him emerging as a star right away.

Regardless, his physicality inside will yield plenty of buckets. He also uses this size well as a defender and rebounder. Although not necessarily an elite rim-protector, Carey can swat his fair share of shots and should be Duke’s anchor defensively. Perhaps his best skill, though, is rebounding. Carey does an exceptional job clearing out the paint and using his athleticism to sky for boards. He will be a glass-cleaner and major offensive threat this season.

Duke has been quite successful with big men in the past and Carey is the next in line. Coach K will likely mold his offense to give Carey as many touches as possible and the young freshman will answer the call with a big season.

Note for Duke fans: Carey is not the last Blue Devil on this list. I think that one of his teammates has a better shot at the NPOY award and that is why Carey is so low. Stay tuned.