2006 Duke Blue Devils Basketball Preview

2006 Duke Blue Devils Basketball Predictions

They’ve been to the Sweet 16 and won their conference championships two years in a row. But that doesn’t make the Duke Blue Devils complacent; it motivates them to win it all. But it’s a transition year for this premium program and with one senior and a boatload of frosh and sophomores, everyone is wondering what this team can do?

Standout guard J.J. Redick and his 26.8 PPG and center Shelden Williams and his 18.8 PPG will both be missed. Point guard Greg Paulus (6.7 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 5.2 APG, 37.3 FG%, 78.4 FT%), now a sophomore, is expected to shoot and score more. He proved last year that he could be a fine assist-man. Freshman Gerald Henderson (yes, his dad played for 13 years in the NBA) possesses a fine outside shot and the speed and girth to take the ball to the basket.

Upfront, look for a squad of sophomores. Forward/center Josh McRoberts (8.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.5 APG, 60.5 FG%, 66.4 FT%) has been offered a spot twice in the NBA draft. McRoberts, who will replace Williams, has a soft shot. Not yet a shot blocker, he has the potential to be a lethal one. There are numerous choices for the two forward positions and all have little to no experience. Freshman Lance Thomas, 6’ 9” and 220 pounds, could play forward, while sophomore David McClure, who had a medical redshirt in 2005-06, should start up front. Look for the versatile Demarcus Nelson (7.1 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 1.2 APG, 45.2 FG%, 64.9 FT%) to see minutes in the front and backcourts.

Coach Mike Krzyzewski is one of the class acts in the NCAA. This is a rebuilding year for the Blue Devils, but never underestimate any team that Coach “K” puts together. He’s a smart, calculating coach who works well with new talent. And he’s one of the best recruiters in college ball.

There are low expectations for the Blue Devils, which may be helpful, allowing them to sneak up on some teams. They have four strong freshmen. Watch out—it is Duke after all.

If you want more info on the 2006 Duke Blue Devils College basketball team check out the NCAA's official basketball team page of the program or check out some rival previews from Maddux Sports of schools like the North Carolina Tar Heels and Boston College Eagles.