Originally Posted by
ChicagoHeel
I have been having similar thoughts and was wondering if the topic had been discussed on DBR (couldn't bring myself to read through 30+ pages of Irving toe vigil posts). I will admit that I have not followed the issue that closely, but it seems to me that at this point it is debatable that Irving could even add much if he did come back. That is not to denigrate him at all- he is clearly a superior talent and I hope/ pray he has a successful career starting next year in Cleveland. It's just that:
(1) Duke has played almost a whole season without him and would likely take some time to readjust. Wouldn't he throw off your rhythm?
(2) Irving could be out of shape and be off in terms of his timing/ speed/ shooting. Has he ever gone this long without playing ball in his life?
(3) teams/ players have improved since Irving last played. He obviously was extremely impressive in his first eight games, but everyone is a little rusty early in the season and now basically all the teams and players he would face are much improved- with the exception of the first round of the two tournaments. If he could have come back and played a bit against lesser competition for lower stakes, that would be different.
If he came back during the NCAA tournament, perhaps it would be something like Zeller during our '09 championship run. He provided some useful minutes, but no one would really say he was integral to the championship.
I don't disagree with much you've said. But if the possible No. 1 in the NBA draft is healthy enough to play, I vote we play him and let the chips fall where they may!
Or is your post a bad attempt at heelogic, aimed at making Duke a lesser team?
Man, if your Mom made you wear that color when you were a baby, and you're still wearing it, it's time to grow up!