Duke Basketball: What to expect from Matthew Hurt in 2020-21?

Matthew Hurt had some ups and downs for Duke Basketball this past season. What should be expected from the forward in year two?

Duke Basketball had a very solid season, to say the least. After losing two big megastars in Zion Willamson and RJ Barrett, the team was able to flourish together and Coach K’s coaching magic affected the players in a positive way.

Matthew Hurt was a huge contribution to the Blue Devils this season. He may not have been as athletic and flashy as his teammates were, but his ability to shoot the long ball gave the team a lift at times. His ability to stretch the floor makes it difficult for the defense at times. His size on the floor along with his smart decision making, he was one of the huge pieces in the Blue Devils success and they can’t wait to see what he can do for them going forward.

Hurt last season averaged 9.7 points on 48% shooting from the field. He had many golden moments this season for the team whether it was his dominant game against Central Arkansas or having a magnificent first half against Boston College on New Year’s Eve. Hurts contributions have made his squad a different team when he has been in the lineup and it’s no question that Coach K and the rest of the team favor him for his hard work.

With all the offense he can provide, the one underrated part about Hurt’s game has been his defense. It may have not shown in the numbers, but in certain moments of the game, Hurt has shown the ability to get key steals and protect the rim to get a stop on the defensive end. With his long wing-span and attention to detail. Coach K puts this kid in a great position on the floor where he can play aggressively and his impact showed with his length on the defensive end.

Coming into his sophomore season, Hurt will be one of the vocal leaders in the Duke locker room. With his experience in his first year at the collegiate level, he can help the young prospects coming in on how to compete at the highest level and to stay disciplined when it comes to school and basketball as well.

Hurt as an individual player will improve as well. Everyone should expect his numbers to improve as Coach K will count on him a lot more to put the ball in the basket and make plays. Throughout this upcoming season, Hurt could possibly be one of the driving forces this season for Duke and they can possibly go far with him doing his job and setting the tone for the other guys.

The collegiate career of Matthew Hurt has been great, to say the least. He’s not many people’s favorite players, but his impact on the floor can be deeply appreciated by any basketball fan. Expect Hurt to get stronger and better as he will come into next season with a different mindset than before.