On Thursday, Duke posted another video of a team scrimmage. This video was far less edited than the previous scrimmage the team posted, giving a more accurate look into the team. The video includes plenty to be optimistic about.
Five observations
Two man game between Jeremy Roach and Paolo Banchero
If this scrimmage is any indication, Jeremy Roach and Paolo Banchero appear to be developing a nice two man game. The two connected on multiple instances and looked very comfortable in doing so. In particular, the pick and pop between Roach and Banchero at the 8:05 mark was encouraging. The play resulted in a three from Paolo Banchero. These two will be involved in several pick and roll/pop actions this year, and have potential to be very dangerous in these sets.
Jeremy Roach under control
Jeremy Roach was very impressive in this scrimmage. It will be hard to tell for sure until the season starts, but it appears as if the game is beginning to slow down for him.
Roach knocked down multiple threes in this video. If he is knocking down those shots on a conisistent basis, the aformentioned Jeremy Roach and Paolo Banchero actions become even more difficult to stop. If he forces teams to go over on screens, it becomes that much more difficult to defend.
Wendell Moore’s vocal activity
Wendell Moore was very vocal during the scrimmage. As a Junior, the team needs Moore to be one of the leaders of the team. Communication on the floor is a big part of leadership, and Moore looks as though he is being intentional about being vocal on the court.
Joey Baker raining threes
Baker knocked down several threes in this scrimmage. If he can keep this up in offseason workouts, it is bound to increase his confidence before the season. As a Sophomore, Baker shot 39.4% from beyond the arc. If he can get back to shooting like that from deep, or even improve on that number, his shooting off the bench would be incredibly valuable.
Banchero in transition
It is truly remarkable how easily the six-foot-ten, 250 pound forward moves and handles the ball in transition. The way he can dribble the ball up the floor and either score or find the open teammates is a rare gift. At the 2:15 mark, Banchero showcased this ability by dribbling nearly the length of the floor and finishing a very difficult, off-balance attempt. Banchero is a big reason why this Duke team has a chance to be very dangerous in transition.
The full video can be watched here:
Nice to see K hanging out with Grant Hill in the background.
Loved seeing that
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