Originally Posted by
Mudge
I agree with both you and Pernell-- and I like the analogy even better because in this case, Duke has already beaten UNC on their floor, not just given them hell at home... so I would say that Duke has every reason to think that on another day, with an inspired performance, they can beat UNC on a "neutral" floor (we'll see how neutral it is, when we see how many seats UNC fans get to the final, if we meet them there), much as the Giants beat the Patriots.
I think with Scheyer continuing his inspired, assertive performances on offense, and Henderson generally getting better every game, since he has recovered from the initial debilitation of the wrist injury, another week can only help Duke, as Paulus is likely to remain consistent with his level of play so far, and Nelson is unlikely to play as poorly as he did last night. Zoubek may also be able to build on some of the positive things he did against Hansborough last night, as well. Yes, Lawson will also improve, but I don't think he has that much more headroom, given the slow rate he has recovered from the ankle injury.
My main concern going into the UNC game was Singler's recent slump from outside-- and it continued last night-- I don't know why he is missing now, but I have no sound reason to expect it to end soon, as this has been going on for about 3-4 games now. I have no answer, other than he seems a little more accurate from the top of the key than from the corner, so if he is going to take that shot, I'd like to see it from up high, rather than the corner.