6 Duke Basketball Players Have NBA Potential

[Franzez]

Kyle Singler-1st Round
Gerald Henderson-1st Round
Taylor King-1st Round
Nolan Smith-1st Round-2nd Round
Demarcus Nelson-1st Round-2nd Round
Lance Thomas-2nd Round

This may be our most NBA talented team yet.

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

[Doctor Joe]

If Thomas has NBA potential, I have not seen it yet. I have no doubt that Scheyer will, at the very least, be getting a serious look by people in the league after 2 more years in the program.

[darthur]

If this team ends up having better NBA talent than '01, I will be surprised and impressed.

[Bluedog]

Kyle Singler-1st Round
Gerald Henderson-1st Round
Taylor King-1st Round
Nolan Smith-1st Round-2nd Round
Demarcus Nelson-1st Round-2nd Round
Lance Thomas-2nd Round

This may be our most NBA talented team yet.

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

Wow, it seems like you are being a bit premature to me. Certainly, several Duke plays have a lot of potential and being drafted in the NBA is a possibility. But saying three players (including two freshman and one sophomore) will have the numbers retired is kind of ridiculous at this point. We need to give them time and having such high expectations can only lead to disappointment. The only time Duke retired 3 numbers who played with each other was for Hurley, Laettner, and Hill, right? If that's indicative of what's to come, I can't complain about 2 national championships, but expecting that right now is asking for too much, IMO.

DeMarcus is a marginal pick right now - most places have him mid 2nd round to not drafted. LT right now would not be drafted. Taylor King certainly needs to improve if he wants to be a first rounder. Obviously, we all expect Kyle and G to get drafted when they choose to do so.

These players are great and a lot of fun to watch - but let's give them some time and enjoy the season!

[Billy Dat]

This has a lot of moxie for a first time post, but it's just slightly far reaching.

I agree on the following:

Will be 1st round draft pick:
Henderson, Singler (if he shows a serious offensive game once he is forced to shoulder less of the front court D and rebounding burden)

1st/2nd round:
Smith and King - really too early to tell for each but Nolan's got the talent and King is a complete freak the way he shoots at his size.

Markie:
His play this season, if it continues strong, will earn him a serious look. I don't see 1st round because teams are usually not ready to guarantee money to a guy his size that isn't a very very good shooter and ballhandler. But, he has NBA level athletic talent and size. He'll get a chance to make a team, but I don't think he's getting the guaranteed money.

Lance:
Looks like a long shot at this point, but we have to remember that he's only 1.5 years into his career. But think about what 6'9" guys in the NBA can do? Could he guard those guys? Maybe. Could he score like those guys? Not even close. Let's give him time.

The rafters?
We're WAY to early in the game for that, for any of these guys.

[77devil]

Kyle Singler-1st Round
Gerald Henderson-1st Round
Taylor King-1st Round
Nolan Smith-1st Round-2nd Round
Demarcus Nelson-1st Round-2nd Round
Lance Thomas-2nd Round

This may be our most NBA talented team yet.

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

I love these players but I think you are experiencing a bout of "irrational exuberance" and/or are high.

[jzp5079]

Kyle Singler-1st Round
Gerald Henderson-1st Round
Taylor King-1st Round
Nolan Smith-1st Round-2nd Round
Demarcus Nelson-1st Round-2nd Round
Lance Thomas-2nd Round

This may be our most NBA talented team yet.

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

w(here)tf is your source on this.

[DevilCastDownfromDurham]

I absolutely LOVE Taylor King. His 3's are what J.J. and K called "momentum shots." He has a great attitude, and is already playing better D, rebounding, better, etc. than I expected given what I read about him coming in. But I'm not sure he'll be a 1st round pick, and I'd be very pleasantly surprised (to say the least) if there's a serious discussion about retiring his jersey. I actually think Jon has a better shot at an NBA spot than several of the guys on your list.

In terms of "best", I think 1999 and 2001 both had better "NBA talent." 1999 had #1 pick Brand as well as lottery guys Battier, Avery, Trajan, and Maggette. The entire starting 5 in 2001 is in the NBA except for JWill, who was arguably the best "NBA talent." Heck, 2004 had CDu, JJ, Shel, Shav, and Dan, as well as Dock, who was, imo, a more likely NBA candidate than Lance and Taylor at the same point in their respective careers.

I love the enthusiasm, but let's not put such great expectations on these guys too soon. They're all wonderful college players working together exceptionally well right now. I'm really enjoying that.

[Franzez]

If Thomas has NBA potential, I have not seen it yet. I have no doubt that Scheyer will, at the very least, be getting a serious look by people in the league after 2 more years in the program.
Yeah Thomas has NBA potential because he is a good athlete but he just isnt the right fit for Duke because hes been playing out of position at the 4 and sometimes at the 5.

Thomas is more of a poor man's Andre Igoudala,well from what I saw of him in his AAU and a few HS games.

[Franzez]

I absolutely LOVE Taylor King. His 3's are what J.J. and K called "momentum shots." He has a great attitude, and is already playing better D, rebounding, better, etc. than I expected given what I read about him coming in. But I'm not sure he'll be a 1st round pick, and I'd be very pleasantly surprised (to say the least) if there's a serious discussion about retiring his jersey. I actually think Jon has a better shot at an NBA spot than several of the guys on your list.

In terms of "best", I think 1999 and 2001 both had better "NBA talent." 1999 had #1 pick Brand as well as lottery guys Battier, Avery, Trajan, and Maggette. The entire starting 5 in 2001 is in the NBA except for JWill, who was arguably the best "NBA talent." Heck, 2004 had CDu, JJ, Shel, Shav, and Dan, as well as Dock, who was, imo, a more likely NBA candidate than Lance and Taylor at the same point in their respective careers.

I love the enthusiasm, but let's not put such great expectations on these guys too soon. They're all wonderful college players working together exceptionally well right now. I'm really enjoying that.

I know its too early but im going with the way they are currently playing now and the typical advancement they have as they become Juniors and eventual as Seniors.

And im serious when I say this:

King and Singler will each average 20 PPG during their Senior Season.

Nolan Smith probably will become a very good player but with us getting Elliot Williams and possibly Lance Stephenson in 09' I doubt he gets the chance to become a True Starter.

[jzp5079]

Yeah Thomas has NBA potential because he is a good athlete but he just isnt the right fit for Duke because hes been playing out of position at the 4 and sometimes at the 5.

Thomas is more of a poor man's Andre Igoudala,well from what I saw of him in his AAU and a few HS games.

watch an NBA game or two. If you do watch the NBA, try paying more attention. If you get a chance, look at Lance in person. He's about 6/7. Isn't an incredible athlete but has a great motor. The motor still gives him an incredibly poor rebounding rate for a person of his size playing on a team with so other few big men. He currently isn't in any sort of mention as an NBA prospect among NCAA Sophomores.
In fact, Demarcus is a better interior rebounder and finisher then Lance, he's a senior, he's got a better shot, and he's on the 2nd round bubble.

Lance is good, a great piece to have, but he will need to improve drastically over the next few seasons if he wants to have a chance at getting drafted. He needs to gain a lot of strength in his lower body, and of course anything he can in the upper.

[Franzez]

Wow, it seems like you are being a bit premature to me. Certainly, several Duke plays have a lot of potential and being drafted in the NBA is a possibility. But saying three players (including two freshman and one sophomore) will have the numbers retired is kind of ridiculous at this point. We need to give them time and having such high expectations can only lead to disappointment. The only time Duke retired 3 numbers who played with each other was for Hurley, Laettner, and Hill, right? If that's indicative of what's to come, I can't complain about 2 national championships, but expecting that right now is asking for too much, IMO.

DeMarcus is a marginal pick right now - most places have him mid 2nd round to not drafted. LT right now would not be drafted. Taylor King certainly needs to improve if he wants to be a first rounder. Obviously, we all expect Kyle and G to get drafted when they choose to do so.

These players are great and a lot of fun to watch - but let's give them some time and enjoy the season!
We're going to win the National Championship this year.

I really believe we will.....its just one of those gut feelings that you get from watching a good team like this play

[DevilCastDownfromDurham]

King and Singler will each average 20 PPG during their Senior Season.

Hope you're right. Heck, I hope Kyle HAS a senior season.

[Franzez]

watch an NBA game or two. If you do watch the NBA, try paying more attention. If you get a chance, look at Lance in person. He's about 6/7. Isn't an incredible athlete but has a great motor. The motor still gives him an incredibly poor rebounding rate for a person of his size playing on a team with so other few big men. He currently isn't in any sort of mention as an NBA prospect among NCAA Sophomores.
In fact, Demarcus is a better interior rebounder and finisher then Lance, he's a senior, he's got a better shot, and he's on the 2nd round bubble.

Lance is good, a great piece to have, but he will need to improve drastically over the next few seasons if he has a chance at getting drafted.
Thats why I said he doesnt fit how we play at Duke,He should have gone to Rutgers where he could have developed more as "Star Player" and it would have been able to hide his weaknesses.

He is a good athlete,and he is pretty strong but he isnt the inside presence we want him to be because he is playing out of position and he doesnt have the footwork to play with his back to the basket.

Hes more of a face up off the dribble type of guys whos wiry and can get the basket or shoot a 15 footer with consistency,thats why I compared him to a poor man's Andre Igoudala

[Franzez]

Hope you're right. Heck, I hope Kyle HAS a senior season.
Kyle will.

He needs 4 years because he doesnt have the NBA athleticism to be a lottery pick after 1 or 2 years even.

As he develops his ability to play with his back to the basket and maybe gains about 15 lbs of muscle he should be a Top 10 pick after his senior year.

If McRoberts hadnt screwed up and ruined his life by leaving early we could have played Singler a little more on the wing like Grant Hill and Mike Dunleavy.

Thank god he cut his floppy hair because the comparisons to Larry Bird would have hurt him in the long run,just ask Adam Morrison.

[jimsumner]

4th post.

Hmm. Possibly a parody post, more likely a way-over-the-top post.

Henderson and Singler are future lottery picks. I would be pleasantly surprised to see Singler at Duke as a senior.

Nelson-second round pick. Chance to stick.

Smith, if he becomes a pure point.

King-outside chance to stick as a specialist. Chance of having his number retired? We're supposing a better college career than those of Verga, Spanarkel, Banks, and Alarie? I'd be stunned to see this happen. He's a freshman but I think the O.P. is projecting am awful lot of improvement.

Thomas-would need to improve his ball skills a lot. An awful lot. Tony Lang and Brian Davis didn't look like NBA players as sophs. Still, a longshot.

Zoubek-You can't teach height. NBA scouts will always look at size and guys like Zoubs sometimes develop later, e.g. Aaron Gray. We just can't project right now.

[dw0827]

Kyle will.

He needs 4 years because he doesnt have the NBA athleticism to be a lottery pick after 1 or 2 years even.

As he develops his ability to play with his back to the basket and maybe gains about 15 lbs of muscle he should be a Top 10 pick after his senior year.

If McRoberts hadnt screwed up and ruined his life by leaving early we could have played Singler a little more on the wing like Grant Hill and Mike Dunleavy.

Thank god he cut his floppy hair because the comparisons to Larry Bird would have hurt him in the long run,just ask Adam Morrison.

How do you know that McRoberts ruined his life? Have you talked to him?

[paulie dogs]

I love these players but I think you are experiencing a bout of "irrational exuberance" and/or are high.

Here is some "Irrational Exuberance." Man this takes me back a few years. This and "All your base are belong to us," the early days of Flash.

http://www.superjer.com/exuberance.php

[jzp5079]

your not really even close. Unless your just drastically overusing the word "poor"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfTeZ4r3Srw
Meet Andre. where are the similarities?


Right now he is in no position to guard any PF in the NBA. Most all SF would have their way with him to. A lot of bigger shooting guards would blow by him as well. And his offense still needs a lot of work. No offense to Lance, you just have to be a straight baller if you want to make it to the NBA.

We will see how he develops - he still has 2 chances for a breakout season. 2 summers to get big in the weight room. He could end up making it as long as he keeps working and never takes no for an answer.

[Lulu]

crazy post. maybe henderson and singler go in 1st round, maybe. nelson's great but probably more of a 2nd round guy, and maybe late 2nd round at that. the other 3 haven't shown nba worthiness yet, unless we're using a really loose definition of "potential" here. smith would have to get the edge though, since he's had nba "flashes" from time to time.

[dball]

Kyle will.

If McRoberts hadnt screwed up and ruined his life by leaving early we could have played Singler a little more on the wing like Grant Hill and Mike Dunleavy.

Thank god he cut his floppy hair because the comparisons to Larry Bird would have hurt him in the long run,just ask Adam Morrison.

McRoberts has ruined his life? Seems more than a bit premature. He's only 20 isn't he?

Don't think of Bird has having floppy hair so not sure how his haircut would invite comparisons. Perhaps, being nearly as tall and highly skilled might invite comparisons to Larry Legend. I don't believe Morrison's 'look' was why he was compared to Bird. Well maybe the wispy moustache.

[Franzez]

How do you know that McRoberts ruined his life? Have you talked to him?
No.

I watched him in the D-League.

And he was playing like he didnt want to be there,but not fully realizing he has to play well so he doesnt have to be there anymore.

Its a far cry from the potential he has but what made him enter the NBA Draft this year is just.....:(

[ivduke]

:eek: I am calling bullsheet here!

This is Patrick Yates in an attempt to be overly positive........:eek:

[Franzez]

your not really even close. Unless your just drastically overusing the word "poor"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfTeZ4r3Srw
Meet Andre. where are the similarities?


Right now he is in no position to guard any PF in the NBA. Most all SF would have their way with him to. A lot of bigger shooting guards would blow by him as well. And his offense still needs a lot of work. No offense to Lance, you just have to be a straight baller if you want to make it to the NBA.

We will see how he develops - he still has 2 chances for a breakout season. 2 summers to get big in the weight room. He could end up making it as long as he keeps working and never takes no for an answer.

I remember seeing him in his AAU games and he played similarly to Iggy Pop and he is not a PF hes a SF.

Hes a long athlete who should be playing on the wing rather than the post but due to our lack of depth in the front court hes having to play there.He doesnt have as quick of a first step as Igoudala but his length can allow him to get the shot up.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Bm5gzj31odY

Thats just a video of him and Zoubek dunking,I couldnt find any video of his AAU or HS stuff to show you some more of how athletic he is.

[Clipsfan]

Someone would have to convince me that the OP isn't a troll at this point...

As for our guys, I'm going to spend more time rooting them on now while they wear the Duke blue than worry about whether they're going to stick at the next level. The only one I really think about on that front is Nelson, as we know he has to leave and I really like him and hope it works out for him. In the meantime, I'm going to hope he can continue to shoulder the load like he did at the end of the MD game and help this team continue to win.

[Franzez]

McRoberts has ruined his life? Seems more than a bit premature. He's only 20 isn't he?

Don't think of Bird has having floppy hair so not sure how his haircut would invite comparisons. Perhaps, being nearly as tall and highly skilled might invite comparisons to Larry Legend. I don't believe Morrison's 'look' was why he was compared to Bird. Well maybe the wispy moustache.
Yes Morrison's look was why he was compared to Bird.

Any 6ft7 or taller white male with floppy hair and the ability to shoot 3's with consistency will draw comparisons to Bird.

Bird was a great rebounder,and great passer.
Morrison was a poor rebounder,and average passer

Bird was a great defensive player
Morrison was a mediocre defensive player.

Larry Bird's name was thrown around when discussing Kyle Korver when he was at Creighton.

[Memphis Devil]

This is why I strongly support "Posters Against Drunk Posting".

[ugadevil]

Yeah Thomas has NBA potential because he is a good athlete but he just isnt the right fit for Duke because hes been playing out of position at the 4 and sometimes at the 5.

Thomas is more of a poor man's Andre Igoudala,well from what I saw of him in his AAU and a few HS games.

Poor man's Iguodala? I don't know what Andre was like in high school, but he does not play anything like Lance Thomas. Andre is one of the best defenders in the league, as far as steals goes. He relies on driving to the basket, but sometimes falls in love with his jump shot. He is a pretty good shooter who can knock down the outside shot, not great though. Lastly, Iguodala is great in the open floor and is considered one of the best dunkers in the game. If Lance is a poor man's Iguodala, he is a very poor man. I just don't see how they're anything alike.

If I were to think of an NBA comparison for Lance, I think it'd be great if he ended up being like a David Lee or even David West type.

[jzp5079]

This is why I strongly support "Posters Against Drunk Posting".

haha. niiiice.

[jipops]

I am simply amazed that on this already unfounded thread, Jon Scheyer was not even mentioned in the initial post.

Jon already has a more well-rounded game than any of the guards mentioned and at this point certainly has a ton more pro potential than Taylor King. I'm definitely no nba scout, but I'd be willing to bet that the pro scouts out there are keeping an eye on Jon and how he progresses throughout his college career. He certainly does not possess the physical gifts that will probably help put Gerald Henderson in the league, but his overall skills could be coveted by many nba teams.

And in terms of overall team talent, while very good, this team falls far short of many past Duke teams. So lets just stop trying to make comparisons there.

And how about we put more focus on how these guys are doing while playing for Duke and not what they might be doing when they're not even here anymore. There have been way too many of these types of threads lately. I''m wondering if somebody is actually going to start discussing Elliot Williams' pro potential before he even enrolls.

[jimsumner]

I had an uh-uh moment when I realized I had omitted Scheyer but then the phone rang and life happened.

Anyway. I think Scheyer has a real solid chance to have a long NBA career. Maybe not a star or even a starter but definitely a contributor. True, he's not an elite athlete but he's decent and the NBA has plenty of spots for smart, fundamentally sound players who understand the game.

[Franzez]

Poor man's Iguodala? I don't know what Andre was like in high school, but he does not play anything like Lance Thomas. Andre is one of the best defenders in the league, as far as steals goes. He relies on driving to the basket, but sometimes falls in love with his jump shot. He is a pretty good shooter who can knock down the outside shot, not great though. Lastly, Iguodala is great in the open floor and is considered one of the best dunkers in the game. If Lance is a poor man's Iguodala, he is a very poor man. I just don't see how they're anything alike.

If I were to think of an NBA comparison for Lance, I think it'd be great if he ended up being like a David Lee or even David West type.
But what you are failing to understand is Lance isnt a PF.

Lee and West both were PF's coming out of high school.

Thomas was a wing SF
He like Igoudala does not have a good 3 point shot but both are good shooters on the baseline.
Thomas like Igoudala can handle the ball in a quasi-PG type of way and he can get his shot up and draw fouls.
Thomas like Igoudala is good in the open court but Igoudala is a better defensive player on the perimeter and is stronger.

[CMS2478]

We're going to win the National Championship this year.

I really believe we will.....its just one of those gut feelings that you get from watching a good team like this play

When did you switch usernames? This must be Ozzie because he is very optimistic. Not that I don't think we can, but to say we ARE. It has to be Ozzie. ;)

[Franzez]

I am simply amazed that on this already unfounded thread, Jon Scheyer was not even mentioned in the initial post.

Jon already has a more well-rounded game than any of the guards mentioned and at this point certainly has a ton more pro potential than Taylor King. I'm definitely no nba scout, but I'd be willing to bet that the pro scouts out there are keeping an eye on Jon and how he progresses throughout his college career. He certainly does not possess the physical gifts that will probably help put Gerald Henderson in the league, but his overall skills could be coveted by many nba teams.

And in terms of overall team talent, while very good, this team falls far short of many past Duke teams. So lets just stop trying to make comparisons there.

And how about we put more focus on how these guys are doing while playing for Duke and not what they might be doing when they're not even here anymore. There have been way too many of these types of threads lately. I''m wondering if somebody is actually going to start discussing Elliot Williams' pro potential before he even enrolls.
When I think Jon Scheyer I think J.J. Redick

Scheyer does not have the physical tools,lateral quickness,or speed to play in the NBA against much more athletic SG's.

His only role would be to shoot 3's,and he isnt a Great 3-point shooter

[DevilCastDownfromDurham]

I had an uh-uh moment when I realized I had omitted Scheyer but then the phone rang and life happened.

Anyway. I think Scheyer has a real solid chance to have a long NBA career. Maybe not a star or even a starter but definitely a contributor. True, he's not an elite athlete but he's decent and the NBA has plenty of spots for smart, fundamentally sound players who understand the game.

Agree completely. If Jon can speed up the release on his shot, build some muscle, and either grow an inch or two or show an ability to be a combo guard (or, ideally both) I think he can be a VERY solid backup or even a starter in the right situation.

[Franzez]

When did you switch usernames? This must be Ozzie because he is very optimistic. Not that I don't think we can, but to say we ARE. It has to be Ozzie. ;)
No I just registered.

Maybe me and this Ozzie guy both are passionate about our Dukies

[CMS2478]

No I just registered.

Maybe me and this Ozzie guy both are passionate about our Dukies

I was just joking. :D Ozzie is known for being very optimistic and very "glass is half full" kind of guy. Welcome to the board and you keep up that Duke passion. I hope your right.

[Franzez]

Agree completely. If Jon can speed up the release on his shot, build some muscle, and either grow an inch or two or show an ability to be a combo guard (or, ideally both) I think he can be a VERY solid backup or even a starter in the right situation.
There is exactly no chance Jon Scheyer starts for a NBA Team.

Him improving his ball handling might get him drafted in the 2nd Round but there is no way any competitive NBA team would let him start.

[Franzez]

I was just joking. :D Ozzie is known for being very optimistic and very "glass is half full" kind of guy. Welcome to the board and you keep up that Duke passion. I hope your right.

Thanks.

Im pretty sure you will not like me,because like all fans im harsh when players arent performing well.

[DevilCastDownfromDurham]

Jon is listed at 6'5 right now. If he grows to the 6'6 or 6'7 range and speeds up his release you're telling me there's NO chance he finds a starting spot as a 2 that can help with ball-handling? I beg to differ.

[Carlos]

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

Will they have to move Shav's retired jersey to make room for all of these new ones?

[DevilCastDownfromDurham]

They can put it in the room with Beard, Burgess, and the rest.

[Franzez]

Will they have to move Shav's retired jersey to make room for all of these new ones?
lmfao.

You can doubt me on it but oh well.

I've been mostly right so far identifying who will be a great Dukie and who wont.

I knew Redick and Williams would be great from their freshman year.
I knew Randolph wasnt.

The only one I've been wrong on is Josh McRoberts

[Acymetric]

Would you mind not using italics at all times? It has it's uses, but in entire posts its kind of unpleasant to read.

I agree with several other posters, I don't know if any current Duke player will get retired (people seem to think this should happen more often than it does for some reason). I think its entirely shocking (not that I disagree) that we retired two players from the same year recently. How much time passed between Grant and J Will? The best player on the team doesn't always merit a retired jersey.

[jimsumner]

"Him improving his ball handling might get him drafted in the 2nd Round but there is no way any competitive NBA team would let him start."

So, you're saying he could start for the Knicks. :)


Franz, you have to expect some skepticism. Like all message boards, DBR has been hit with some drive-by trolls, who pretend to be what they are not, make outrageous posts, and then drop off the face of the earth.

So, if you are what you claim to be, welcome.

But, for the record, the Taylor King retirement-jersey scenario seems pretty far-fetched to me.

[Methodistman]

I love lamp.

Sorry - this one is out in leftfield.

[jipops]

When I think Jon Scheyer I think J.J. Redick

Scheyer does not have the physical tools,lateral quickness,or speed to play in the NBA against much more athletic SG's.

His only role would be to shoot 3's,and he isnt a Great 3-point shooter

When I think of Jon Scheyer, JJ Redick definitely does NOT come to mind. They are two COMPLETELY different players. They're both white and taller than 6-3, that's about where the similarities end.

Scheyer does in fact have the quickness and speed.

Why would a guy who has an excellent handle and very good defensive prowess only be around to shoot 3's?

[dball]

Yes Morrison's look was why he was compared to Bird.

Any 6ft7 or taller white male with floppy hair and the ability to shoot 3's with consistency will draw comparisons to Bird.


?? What's with the floppy hair? Maybe you're thinking of Pete Maravich.

[kydevil]

:eek: I am calling bullsheet here!

This is Patrick Yates in an attempt to be overly positive........:eek:

I laughed out loud when I read that!

[Saratoga2]

When I think of Jon Scheyer, JJ Redick definitely does NOT come to mind. They are two COMPLETELY different players. They're both white and taller than 6-3, that's about where the similarities end.

Scheyer does in fact have the quickness and speed.

Why would a guy who has an excellent handle and very good defensive prowess only be around to shoot 3's?

The three that I think have strong NBA potential are Smith, Singlar and Henderson.

If you look at the other three teams in the top four, it is hard to see anyone with more than three.

[Spret42]

All it takes in college basketball is two players who have legit first round skillsI would say only two have that right now. Singler and Henderson. Those two are enough though for a team to win a lot of games. They are as good a duo as there is in the country.

The rest are strong college basketball players who possess varying degrees of NBA potential.

Skills and potential are two very different things in my opinion.

[CDu]

Kyle Singler-1st Round
Gerald Henderson-1st Round
Taylor King-1st Round
Nolan Smith-1st Round-2nd Round
Demarcus Nelson-1st Round-2nd Round
Lance Thomas-2nd Round

This may be our most NBA talented team yet.

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

I'd be surprised if Thomas is drafted. And the comparison to Iguodala is silly and not fair to Thomas. Thomas doesn't have the leaping ability, the quickness, the defensive ability, or the ballhandling ability of Iguodala. I'd say Thomas' potential is more that of Antonio Lang. If he gets to that point, he may get drafted. But he's a LONG way from that point right now. And Antonio Lang is never going to be confused with Iguodala. Either you're wildly overrated Thomas, or you're wildly underrating Iguodala.

As for the idea that this might be the most NBA talented Duke team ever, I'm going to say no to that as well. The 1992, 1999, and 2001 teams had more NBA talent, in my opinion.

1992: G. Hill, Laettner, Hurley, Parks, Lang, T. Hill
1999: Brand, Battier, Maggette, Avery, Langdon, Carrawell
2001: Battier, Williams, Boozer, Dunleavy, Duhon

The 1992 team had 4 lottery picks, a #29 pick (Lang) and a #39 pick (Hill). The 1999 team had 5 guys taken in the top 14 and a guy taken in the second round (Carrawell). The 2001 team had 3 lottery picks, a 2nd rounder who became an All-Star (Boozer), and a 2nd rounder who is an NBA regular and frequent starter (Duhon).

This team is very deep and pretty darn good. But I'll be very surprised if we match any of those teams in terms of lottery picks or NBA impact.

All that said, it's WAY too early to be making predictions like this. I REALLY doubt three players get their jerseys retired. That's all-time great status there. It'd be nice if they did, as it'd likely mean a couple of championships. But I'd be very surprised if this team wins a couple of championships.

[Billy Dat]

That's the question....he's a few inches shorter and hasn't shown the same shooting touch. Dunleavy was a first team AA as a junior. I see a long career overseas, but I think the NBA will be a challenge for him.

[ugadevil]

I'd be surprised if Thomas is drafted. And the comparison to Iguodala is silly and not fair to Thomas. Thomas doesn't have the leaping ability, the quickness, the defensive ability, or the ballhandling ability of Iguodala. I'd say Thomas' potential is more that of Antonio Lang. If he gets to that point, he may get drafted. But he's a LONG way from that point right now. And Antonio Lang is never going to be confused with Iguodala. Either you're wildly overrated Thomas, or you're wildly underrating Iguodala.


Andre Iguodala is to Lance Thomas as Bobby Boucher (from The Waterboy) is to Joe Montana.

[CDu]

That's the question....he's a few inches shorter and hasn't shown the same shooting touch. Dunleavy was a first team AA as a junior. I see a long career overseas, but I think the NBA will be a challenge for him.

I'd say their games and skill sets are very similar. Both are gifted ballhandlers, can shoot well, drive well, pass well, and could score off the dribble. Both are not noted for great explosiveness, but have a smoothness and savvy to their games that make them effective.

That said, Dunleavy was 6'9", and Scheyer is 6'5". A 6'9" player with guard's skills is a commodity in the NBA, as Dunleavy can comfortably play two positions. Scheyer has his work cut out for him a bit more, but can still make it I think. He'll need some seasoning and to develop his game more to compensate for that lack of explosiveness at his size.

[Tommac]

I can't believe this thread has received this many posts in such a short time.

[Jumbo]

When I think Jon Scheyer I think J.J. Redick

Scheyer does not have the physical tools,lateral quickness,or speed to play in the NBA against much more athletic SG's.

His only role would be to shoot 3's,and he isnt a Great 3-point shooter

Scheyer has one thing in common with J.J. Redick: skin color. Otherwise, they are completely different players. Everyone else has heard this already, but since you're new hear, I'll repeat it: Scouts have told me that Scheyer is a lock to play in the NBA. Meanwhile, there are a couple of guys on your list who are EXTREME longshots to make the league.

[gw67]

For comparison, some pretty good duos:

Hansbrough/Ellington
Hansbrough/Lawson
Beasley/Walker
Augustin/James
Bayless/Budinger
Love/Collison
Mayo/Jefferson
Foster/Ogilvy
Gordon/White
Rose/Douglas-Roberts

Singler and Henderson are both fine players but I wouldn’t rank them as superior to any of the above duos. The strength of Duke this year is the depth of quality players.

gw67

[Jumbo]

The three that I think have strong NBA potential are Smith, Singlar and Henderson.

If you look at the other three teams in the top four, it is hard to see anyone with more than three.

Saratoga, I'm begging you to call him Singler, not Singlar. And you guys are killing me with the lack of Scheyer respect. I don't know how to make it any clearer, other than to get some NBA scouts to actually let me quote them on a Duke fan message board. (Hell, maybe I'll try asking.) He's going to play in the league, and play a lot.

[ugadevil]

Foster/Ogilvy


I didn't recognize those names. Are they from Vandy?

[juise]

And im serious when I say this:

King and Singler will each average 20 PPG during their Senior Season.

That's a tall order. Do you know when the last time Duke had two players average 20+ points was? It was 1977-78, and those two were at 20.8 and 20.0 (Spanarkel and Gminski, respectively). Shane and Jason got close in 2000-01, as did J.J. and Shelden in 2005-06. Like many have said, it would be awesome to have Kyle for 4 years. Even if we did, I don't think two versatile big men will do the bulk of the scoring... Nolan, Elliot, Olek, etc. have to fit in somewhere.

[dw0827]

Thanks.

Im pretty sure you will not like me,because like all fans im harsh when players arent performing well.

Don't know if I'll like you or not . . . . but I'm a fan and I'm NOT harsh when players aren't performing well. The only time I may think ill of a player is if he's dogging it . . . not giving effort. As long as he's trying, who am I to be harsh? I'm fairly certain he's a better ball player than I ever dreamed of being, so who am I to criticize?

If he isn't giving effort . . . that's another story. But I don't see that happening with guys on teams coached by K.

Still concerned about how McRoberts ruined his life at the tender age of 20 . . . you still haven't explained that one yet.

[dw0827]

Saratoga, I'm begging you to call him Singler, not Singlar. And you guys are killing me with the lack of Scheyer respect. I don't know how to make it any clearer, other than to get some NBA scouts to actually let me quote them on a Duke fan message board. (Hell, maybe I'll try asking.) He's going to play in the league, and play a lot.

I'm not doubting what you're saying about the scouts. You know I like Scheyer's game. But are you able to share the extent of the scouts' enthusiasm for Jon? Do they see him 1st round now? Or do they see him 1st round assuming he stays and develops as expected?

If you'd rather not divulge what you've learned, I understand.

[gw67]

ugadevil,

Foster and Ogilvy are from Vandy. Foster is a 6-6 senior forward who is an outstanding outside shooter averaging 19 ppg and Ogilvy is a 6-11 freshman averaging nearly 18 ppg.

gw67

[BD80]

The current team is getting the advantage of running the offense most favored in the NBA right now. Not only are they running it, they are learning to defend against it in practice every day. This isn’t just as simple as running to a corner on a break, but entails the most difficult play to defend, the pick and roll. They are learning the communication and timing and footwork of this play. They also are learning fundamentals from one of the best coaches in the game, particularly in playing TEAM defense. Watch the Pistons play, and watch the defense that Prince, Wallace and McDyess play. Ever wonder why Ben Wallace won so many Defensive player of the year awards with the Pistons but now sucks with the Bulls?

Duke players have been somewhat overrated in the draft from a talent standpoint, but I submit that GMs have been looking for “team” players in selecting Duke guys. Getting such advanced training will help our guys even more in the draft in the upcoming years.

It will also benefit players such as Markie, Scheyer and G for NBA scouts to see them at Duke hitting the shots from the "Phoenix" offense, which can help counter the perception that they don’t have the size to play the wing at the next level. Nolan will get valuable experience in recognizing the passing lanes in the offense and how to deliver the ball in scoring position (Steve Nash's forte) and when to pull the ball out to recycle.

Markie reminds me of Vinnie Johnson, of the “Bad Boy” Pistons of the 90s. He was 6’3” with long arms and was one of the strongest players in the league. He was known as “the microwave” for his instant offense off of the bench. He also had the flattest shot that I can remember. I swear that he made some shots that never went over the rim.

I won't predict draft positions, I would rather think about the time we will get to enjoy watching the guys play for Duke.

[shadowfax336]

how is everybody forgetting Marty here?


haha seriously though, this is a bit ridiculous. Its pretty obvious that Henderson and Singler will be in the league, that Scheyer has a good shot, and that D-Marc and Smith will get a chance too...

But I have trouble seeing King being a first round draft pick at 6-6 and slow...
and for Lance to be drafted he would have to really develop some basketball skills...
he's a good enough athlete to play in the NBA, but not a good enough athlete that he can get there just on his athleticism

Seriously though I'm as optimistic as anyone, but the OP just hasn't had any sense of reality attached to his posts here...

1. 3 jersey retirees on one team? According to Duke a player has to win a national player of the year award (defensive player works as well apparently) and graduate in order to have their jersey retired...
Since I don't see any of the 3 players mentioned winning defensive player (maybe Gerald, but still doubtful) this would mean Gerald would have to win a POY his senior year and Singler and King would have to each win different ones their senior years...
That would be awesome, but I'd like to point out that King hasn't played more than 10 minutes in about 6 games now... Expecting a national player of the year award when he's playing with another national player of the year is really hoping for a lot...
2. Of course it would help if they both averaged 20 a game.... But that is very unlikely considering that even JJ and Shelden couldn't manage that, and its unlikely that we're ever going to let our offense depend on 2 players again to the extent that we depended on those 2 their senior year...
3. The hair thing is actually the least egregious thing to me, I see where you're coming from even though it sounds goofy. I would point out that Keith Van Horn used to get those comparisons too, and he wasn't exactly rocking the floppy hair...
4. This is not the Duke team with the most NBA potential ever. PERIOD.

[yancem]

Don't know if I'll like you or not . . . . but I'm a fan and I'm NOT harsh when players aren't performing well. The only time I may think ill of a player is if he's dogging it . . . not giving effort. As long as he's trying, who am I to be harsh? I'm fairly certain he's a better ball player than I ever dreamed of being, so who am I to criticize?

If he isn't giving effort . . . that's another story. But I don't see that happening with guys on teams coached by K.

Still concerned about how McRoberts ruined his life at the tender age of 20 . . . you still haven't explained that one yet.

I don't know, I've dreamed of being a pretty spectacular ball player. Unfortunately, I don't have the genetics to go along with my imagination ;)

[dw0827]

I don't know, I've dreamed of being a pretty spectacular ball player. Unfortunately, I don't have the genetics to go along with my imagination ;)

I have those dreams, too. Unfortunately, I wake up. Damn.

[yancem]

1. 3 jersey retirees on one team? According to Duke a player has to win a national player of the year award (defensive player works as well apparently) and graduate in order to have their jersey retired...
Since I don't see any of the 3 players mentioned winning defensive player (maybe Gerald, but still doubtful) this would mean Gerald would have to win a POY his senior year and Singler and King would have to each win different ones their senior years...
That would be awesome, but I'd like to point out that King hasn't played more than 10 minutes in about 6 games now... Expecting a national player of the year award when he's playing with another national player of the year is really hoping for a lot....

Not to nit pick (but what the heck), Hurley didn't win a national POY and King Amaker and Wojo all won DPOYs and Brand won the POY. I thought the standard was more along the lines of 1st team AA and unusually a trip to the F4. Anyway, I totally agree that it is unrealistic to think that Henderson, Singler and King will have their numbers retired. I wouldn't be surprised if none of them did. Of course a lot depends on how long they stick around and, more so for King, how they develop.

[Acymetric]

If Henderson or Singler stick around 4 years, I would consider it a legitimate possibility that one of them might get retired. I doubt both will (my money is on Henderson, because quotes from before he got to Duke and quotes from this month all indicate wanting to be "one of the best ever to play at Duke" which would almost certainly require 4 years from him) but they might.

But even if one of them does stay, getting retired would be a long shot. What isn't up for debate is that they're both great players, and I hope they stay all 4. The only number in the rafters I find important is the number of NC banners (and what the heck, ACC banners too).

[CDu]

But I have trouble seeing King being a first round draft pick at 6-6 and slow...
and for Lance to be drafted he would have to really develop some basketball skills...
he's a good enough athlete to play in the NBA, but not a good enough athlete that he can get there just on his athleticism

Agreed. It's not like King is freakishly tall with that great stroke. He's 6'6", which makes him a wing player in the NBA. Unless he gets a LOT stronger, a LOT quicker, or really diversify his game, he's not likely a first round pick. There are plenty of 6'6"/6'7" guys in the NBA who can shoot, and most have more diverse games than King or are more athletic (or both). That's not to say King can't eventually play in the NBA. Guys with that range can find a place in the league. But finding a place and being a first-round pick are a lot different. King has a lot of work to do.


1. 3 jersey retirees on one team? According to Duke a player has to win a national player of the year award (defensive player works as well apparently) and graduate in order to have their jersey retired...
Since I don't see any of the 3 players mentioned winning defensive player (maybe Gerald, but still doubtful) this would mean Gerald would have to win a POY his senior year and Singler and King would have to each win different ones their senior years...
That would be awesome, but I'd like to point out that King hasn't played more than 10 minutes in about 6 games now... Expecting a national player of the year award when he's playing with another national player of the year is really hoping for a lot...

1. I don't think that's quite true. Neither Gminski nor Hurley won any national player of the year honors at Duke but got their numbers retired. The circumstances vary in regard to what gets you in, but graduation is most certainly a requirement. I'll agree that getting three jerseys retired from this team is still highly unlikely though.


2. Of course it would help if they both averaged 20 a game.... But that is very unlikely considering that even JJ and Shelden couldn't manage that, and its unlikely that we're ever going to let our offense depend on 2 players again to the extent that we depended on those 2 their senior year...

2. Agreed. 20 points per game hasn't happened in Coach K's tenure at Duke. And to expect two similar style of players to do it is exceedingly unlikely.


4. This is not the Duke team with the most NBA potential ever. PERIOD.

4. Wholeheartedly agreed.

[CDu]

Not to nit pick (but what the heck), Hurley didn't win a national POY and King Amaker and Wojo all won DPOYs and Brand won the POY. I thought the standard was more along the lines of 1st team AA and unusually a trip to the F4. Anyway, I totally agree that it is unrealistic to think that Henderson, Singler and King will have their numbers retired. I wouldn't be surprised if none of them did. Of course a lot depends on how long they stick around and, more so for King, how they develop.

I don't think there is a set criteria. I think the only given is that you have to have graduated (ruling out Brand). Otherwise, I think it's a matter of having a universally agreed great career. That usually includes some combination of a Final Four appearance, player of the year award, all-time records, etc. Gminski was the all-time Duke leader in points and rebounds when he graduated and took his team to a Final Four. Hurley was the nation's all-time assist leader when he graduated and won two national titles. That's what got them in.

[BD80]

Wan't it Kerlina that used to say a player had to be a POY to have a jersey cerimony - only for it to be revealed that ANY POY award would do, from any organization. Kinda like the early "national championships" Kerlina claims to have.

[Jumbo]

I'm not doubting what you're saying about the scouts. You know I like Scheyer's game. But are you able to share the extent of the scouts' enthusiasm for Jon? Do they see him 1st round now? Or do they see him 1st round assuming he stays and develops as expected?

If you'd rather not divulge what you've learned, I understand.

I hate to be a jerk, but there's only so much I can say. Sorry.

[pete]

Markie - will be drafted in the early second round and be in the league 5 to 7 years. No all star games or anything like that but he is a complete basketball player and has a pro body and long arms although he is smaller than the average shooting guard. Sometimes guys don't fit the cookie cutter 2 guard and then stick around for 10 years in the league. We love to pigeon hole players based on past experiences and perspectives but on occasion someone comes along and breaks the generalization of what a 2 guard should be and I believe if Markie get's a chance he will surprise some people.

Jon - will be drafted and will be a better pro than JJ although they are different players. Jon is a more complete player than JJ and is able to do two things JJ cannot get to the hole and play defense.

Gerald - Obvious 1st round draft choice in 2009 and a sixth man in the league. He needs to work on his 3 point stroke and ball handling but his raw talent is off the hinges.

Lance - No chance.

Greg- No chance

Taylor - Unless he hits 50% from 3pt range career no chance.

Nolan- I'm gonna go out on a limb and say Nolan will be the best pro out of everybody I listed.

Kyle - 1st round pick and a 15 year carrer in the league.

The rest no chance.


Obviously Markie is my favorite player.

[johnb]

The few times I've watched NBA games up close, I've been stunned by the size, power, and fluidity of virtually all the players. I agree that we have previously had teams that looked NBA caliber, but we don't currently have anybody who would wow NBA players--what we have now is a great TEAM of really good college players.

I'd guess that none of our current players is a lock to ever start on an NBA team, though, if I were to pick one, I'd choose Henderson, especially if he could develop an NBA-level outside shot. And if I were a gambling person, and the bet concerned who would get an NBA paycheck in 7 years, I'd put my money on Zoubek with the odds.

[dw0827]

I hate to be a jerk, but there's only so much I can say. Sorry.

Not a problem. I understand and appreciate your reluctance to share private communications in such a forum.

[Indoor66]

What difference does it make? Duke has yet to play a game against an NBA team and never will. Why the fascination with ranking NBA status vis-a-vis the quality of a Duke team? What does it matter?

[jzp5079]

indoor - thats what FORUMS are for. Discussions, theories, even just plain thoughts. If there is a discussion you think is un-important, don't post in it. jesus christ.

[Indoor66]

indoor - thats what FORUMS are for. Discussions, theories, even just plain thoughts. If there is a discussion you think is un-important, don't post in it. jesus christ.

And I expressed an opinion. Please watch your language.

[speedevil]

you forgot Zoubek. All 7 footers have nba potiental

[dkbaseball]

Once I post my report on Olek Czyz in a week or so, everyone here is probably going to start thinking of me as the crazy uncle who's kept in the attic. But I'm projecting him as a classic NBA three. And unless he develops a big confidence problem in Duke's Darwinian practice culture, everybody in the post rotation should start hearing footsteps, Singler included. I can't conceive of someone with this guy's collection of tools going meekly to the end of the bench and waiting a couple of years to be able to help out with rebounding and post defense. He's the wrench thrown in the works of all these projections.

[thebur]

Well I could not miss this opportunity, being a huge Duke and NBA fan, to comment on my predictions for our players' futures.

Here is my breakdown player by player:

Kyle Sinlger- Kyle will improve on this season's numbers year by year, a career capped with a Senior season where he averages 67 ppg 38 rpg 15 apg 8 spg and 12 bpg. He will be voted unanimously ACC and NCAA "Greatest Player in History" and will have his number 20 retired in all of basketball, from Youth Leagues in Des Moines to CSKA Moskow. He will also be honored as a Rhodes Scholar, for the work that he does on a stem cell line that leads to a cure for cancer. He will of course wear his number for the Seattle Supersonics, where after being drafted first overall he will team with Kevin Durant to win 4 straight Championships from 2012 to 2015. At that point, league commissioner Stephen A Smith will form a new franchise in Junueau, AK with Singler and the 13 other worst statistical players in the NBA. This will only anger the "Fiery Strawberry", or "Fresa Encendida" on the dominant sports channel of this era ESPN Deportes, urging him to win work his hardest and lead the Juneau Jackrabbits to 10 straight titles, capturing league and playoff MVP's in each season. Duke will assemble a team of it's best math, science, and engineering students to create a 10,000 foot tall holograph of Kyle on top of Cameron, his menacing stare visible from every corner of the UNC campus.

Gerald Henderson: Gerald will continue his double major in philosophy and aeronautical engineering, pioneering the Theory of the Momentary Suspension of Gravity on moving objects. American Scientist will name him Man of the Year, and call him "The greatest gravitational theorist since Isaac Newton". He will apply this knowledge on the court, leading Duke to back to back championships and leaving early for the NBA after his Junior year. He will go on to average over 32 ppg in the NBA and be a 10 time all star for the Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Hornets. Later in life, he will have a second career of Vice President in the second Shane Battier administration.

Nolan Smith: Nolan will be one of the 5 best point guards in Duke history, and will also write his first Psychology text that will be published during his Junior season. After career averages of 15 ppg and 23 apg, he will be drafted second after Kyle Singler, and lead his team to the finals only to be defeated by the "Fresa Encendida" in each trip. After his career in the NBA, he will work towards ending depression in the youth of the world, changing the face of the future for many nations.

Taylor King: Obsessive about having true "In the Gym" range, Taylor will work night in and night out on his shot, only taking breaks to study his mathematics and physics. His senior thesis "Long Distance Trajectory with Human Thrown Objects" will be celebrated by the Duke Scientific community. His range will continue to extend exponentially, until teams have to guard against his shot literally everywhere on the court. This will be highlighted by King's signature play, when in a blowout home win over Carolina at Cameron, with 1:23 to go and the Devils up 43, King jokingly shoots the ball in from the other baseline rather than take a 5 second call. The basket of course did not count, but the highlight was deemed "Play of the Millennium" by many analysts. He will lead the NBA in three point shooting for 8 of his 14 seasons, averaging 22 ppg and being an 11 time all star.

Lance Thomas: Lance will go through his career averaging 15 rebounds a game for his Junior and Senior seasons. He will be known throughout Durham and the nation as an engaging activist and volunteer for the community, helping the "City of Medicine" open 5 free children's health clinics. After graduating and having mediocre success in the NBA, he is encouraged by his friend and former teammate Greg Paulus, the Quarterback for the resurgent Atlanta Falcons to join him on the turf. Lance goes on to become one of the most successful tight ends in league history, with he and Paulus connecting for 32 touchdowns during one of their 4 Superbowl winning seasons.

Just my .02

[jzp5079]

I'm not doubting what you're saying about the scouts. You know I like Scheyer's game. But are you able to share the extent of the scouts' enthusiasm for Jon? Do they see him 1st round now? Or do they see him 1st round assuming he stays and develops as expected?

If you'd rather not divulge what you've learned, I understand.

I don't know a single player in the NBA who gets a "lot" of playing time, and never dunks the ball (at 6'5). Scheyer is a well rounded player. I think what may hurt him is not having one thing that he does ridiculously well. He will be a second round pick. He may stick, he may not.

[CDu]

Standing 6-5, Scheyer scored a good number of his points from behind the three point line. His job for much of the game was to wait for the ball rotation from the weak side and hit the jumper if left open. Though his jumper lacks elevation, Scheyer gets the ball away very quickly with a high release point. The ability to get the ball off quickly allows him to shoot with accuracy even if the defense has a chance to apply pressure. Scheyer’s three point shot was streaky at times last season, however, especially in ACC games.

I generally agree with their analysis, but I disagree with this part. If anything I've always felt there's a slight hitch in Scheyer's "windup." In my opinion, that's why we see him frequently decline to shoot a seemingly open shot. And we almost never see him shoot a perimeter shot when the defender is in his face (nearly all of his three point attempts are wide open ones). I could be wrong, but that's the impression I get when watching him shoot.

[CDu]

Wan't it Kerlina that used to say a player had to be a POY to have a jersey cerimony - only for it to be revealed that ANY POY award would do, from any organization. Kinda like the early "national championships" Kerlina claims to have.

Kerlina's jersey ceremonies are different. They have only seven jerseys that are actually retired. They do honor players with jersey ceremonies and hang the jerseys up. But the number isn't actually retired. As evidence, if you take a close look at the rafters, there are many repeated numbers up there.

[Abraxas]

your not really even close. Unless your just drastically overusing the word "poor"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfTeZ4r3Srw
Meet Andre. where are the similarities?


Lance... no way, but it reminded me of Henderson

I was around when Vince Carter was playing at Carolina. Henderson has that athleticism at the same stage of development, but I think that Henderson has better fundamentals.

Vince Carter UNC stats: http://www.ibiblio.org/craig/draft/1998_draft/Players/carter-v.htm
Gerald Henderson Duke stats: http://goduke.statsgeek.com/basketball-m/seasons/season-stats.php?season=2007-08

I truly think that he has the best chance of being the next Duke great NBA player. He is a better defender than Vince was, and if he remains to his Senior year, Henderson will be a lottery pick. Henderson is a probable All-star potential with lots of development ahead.

Singler will also be a first round - maybe lottery pick. He has talent, intelligence, insticts, etc. Needs to mature physically to take the beating from driving to the NBA lane. Possible All-Star potential.

Zoubek will be the 10th player of NBA lineups pick-up their 6 fouls to bother Duncan and other PF/Cs. Not an All-Star potential.

King, because of his size and being 3 pt specialist, might become the Brent Barry type utility player in a roster. Not an All-star potential.

I like all the other Duke players. Great hearts, great kids, great athletes. But undersized for NBA play. Remember Chris Carawell. Great Duke story, even drafted, only played in the Summer NBA league ... http://www.nba.com/jazz/news/rmr_game30_010727.html

The best three Duke NBA players are Grant Hill, Boozer and Brand.

[Jumbo]

I don't know a single player in the NBA who gets a "lot" of playing time, and never dunks the ball (at 6'5). Scheyer is a well rounded player. I think what may hurt him is not having one thing that he does ridiculously well. He will be a second round pick. He may stick, he may not.

You're basing that on, well, your own observations. (Oh, he can dunk the ball. And there are plenty of NBA guys who are 6'5" and can dunk but don't, either.) I'm basing my statements on what NBA scouts say. If you don't want to listen, that's fine. I'll be serving up hefty portions of crow to a whole bunch of people in June of 2010.

Also, this thread makes me want to vomit.

[AtlDuke72]

Kyle Singler-1st Round
Gerald Henderson-1st Round
Taylor King-1st Round
Nolan Smith-1st Round-2nd Round
Demarcus Nelson-1st Round-2nd Round
Lance Thomas-2nd Round

This may be our most NBA talented team yet.

I have reason to believe but I think Singler,King and Henderson each will have their numbers in the rafters at the end of their careers.

Have you been watching the games? While I hope Thomas develops, he is averaging 4 points a game and about 2 rebounds. The other teams bigs have had one career game after another. Somehow the team keeps winning. I think that Zoubek will be drafted and possibly Scheyer. Hard to put King in the first round since it is hard to see what position he could possibly play in the NBA.

[shadowfax336]

I'm getting that from what was said before JJ and Shelden's retirement ceremonies last year by Broadhead. Its totally possible he doesn't know what he's talking about, but he said it both times, so I took it as truth despite the rather confusing fact that Shelden didn't win a National POY (which made me think defensive count). First team AA makes more sense all in all

[MChambers]

Saratoga, I'm begging you to call him Singler, not Singlar. And you guys are killing me with the lack of Scheyer respect. I don't know how to make it any clearer, other than to get some NBA scouts to actually let me quote them on a Duke fan message board. (Hell, maybe I'll try asking.) He's going to play in the league, and play a lot.

Singler has excellent NBA potential, but whoever said he has to learn to play with his back to the basket is smoking something pretty good. He'll be mostly a perimeter player in the NBA. Think a far better version of Harpring, for example.
Henderson will be in the NBA, as will Scheyer. I think Smith and Zoubek (don't laugh) have a shot. As for the rest, let's see how they develop.
No way this team has the talent of 92, 99, or 02, at least in terms of NBA players.

[Saratoga2]

Markie - will be drafted in the early second round and be in the league 5 to 7 years. No all star games or anything like that but he is a complete basketball player and has a pro body and long arms although he is smaller than the average shooting guard. Sometimes guys don't fit the cookie cutter 2 guard and then stick around for 10 years in the league. We love to pigeon hole players based on past experiences and perspectives but on occasion someone comes along and breaks the generalization of what a 2 guard should be and I believe if Markie get's a chance he will surprise some people.

Jon - will be drafted and will be a better pro than JJ although they are different players. Jon is a more complete player than JJ and is able to do two things JJ cannot get to the hole and play defense.

Gerald - Obvious 1st round draft choice in 2009 and a sixth man in the league. He needs to work on his 3 point stroke and ball handling but his raw talent is off the hinges.

Lance - No chance.

Greg- No chance

Taylor - Unless he hits 50% from 3pt range career no chance.

Nolan- I'm gonna go out on a limb and say Nolan will be the best pro out of everybody I listed.

Kyle - 1st round pick and a 15 year carrer in the league.

The rest no chance.


Obviously Markie is my favorite player.

Markie is an excellent college player this year and maybe the most important contributor on this years wonderful team. He is very athletic, is quick and is very strong. I assume him to be no more than 6'3" in stocking feet and we know that he has a long wingspan.

To become an NBA player, he would have to take the role of a shooting guard, since his handle and passing are not good enough for the point position at Duke and certainly not going to cut it in the NBA. His shooting is average and his foul shooting is also average or below. With his capabilities, I can see him possibly getting a shot in the second round, but would not be surprised if he winds up playing overseas.

I agree that Singler has a versitile game and has the size and handling capability to be a 3 in the NBA. Everthing is pointing toward a long career there for him if he wants it.

Henderson has great athleticism and is developing his game. My guess is his handle will improve as will his defensive ability and he too will be drafted into the NBA, probably in the first round.

Smith has some developing to do, but he is quick, has a good handle and is also long. He shoots pretty well now and he is likely to improve a lot over the next year or two. Someone indicated that he is now 6'3" and may still be growing. He has the potential to be an NBA point guard.

Scheyer is also on the list of NBA possibles. At 6'5" and with his floor vision and handle, he is clearly a prospect. He gets the game and would probably wind up as a shooting guard in the NBA. Right now I see him as a borderline first round or second round. He could have a decent NBA career. We should have the advantage of seeing him develop for the full four years at Duke.

I agree that Paulus and Thomas have little chance, but then there aren't that many slots available in the NBA and there are a lot of superior players around the country and the world vying for those positions. There is no shame in missing. It is hard to see King as a prospect with his current level of play, but who knows. Same with Zoubek.

[jzp5079]

You're basing that on, well, your own observations. (Oh, he can dunk the ball. And there are plenty of NBA guys who are 6'5" and can dunk but don't, either.) I'm basing my statements on what NBA scouts say. If you don't want to listen, that's fine. I'll be serving up hefty portions of crow to a whole bunch of people in June of 2010.

Also, this thread makes me want to vomit.

i'de be willing to take a friendly bet.

[jzp5079]

http://www.nbadraft.net/Classof2010.asp


http://www.draftexpress.com/rankings/NCAA-Sophomores


any more sources?

[Jumbo]

http://www.nbadraft.net/Classof2010.asp


http://www.draftexpress.com/rankings/NCAA-Sophomores


any more sources?

Neither nbadraft.net nor draftexpress is remotely reputable. They are glorified fan sites.

Here's our bet, since you're interested in a friendly wager. When Scheyer dons and NBA uniform in November of 2010, that will be your avatar for a year. If something (short of a cataclysmic injury) happens and he doesn't make the league, I'll use his Euro team logo as my avatar for a year. Deal?

[jzp5079]

Neither nbadraft.net nor draftexpress is remotely reputable. They are glorified fan sites.

Here's our bet, since you're interested in a friendly wager. When Scheyer dons and NBA uniform in November of 2010, that will be your avatar for a year. If something (short of a cataclysmic injury) happens and he doesn't make the league, I'll use his Euro team logo as my avatar for a year. Deal?

hmm... see I think Scheyer has a chance at landing in the second round. Right now (and yes based on my observations), I don't see him cracking the top 8-9 in an NBA rotation (hense - I don't ever see him playing a lot). Heck, JJ and Sheldon are having trouble getting a lot of playing time these days (Sheldon more recently has faded off). That said, and I believe I have mentioned this before recently, Scheyer has the rest of this season to impress. He has 2 more off seasons. It will be interesting to see how his frame responds to this upcoming summer of 08'. That could be very telling on his NBA future. I think he's a great player. I see him possibly averaging 17ppg, 3.5 apg, 4 rpg for us his senior year or something along those lines. It's a matter of: Does his game translate to the NBA well? I'm not so convinced it does - I also am no expert.

How many seniors were taken in the first round last year? Just Al Thorton, Aaron Brooks, Alando Tucker, and AC Law if I remember correctly. It just seems to me if your good enough to crack an NBA rotation - or thought to have the potential to be - your being projected to go at the latest in most cases after your junior year.

[houstondukie]

no offense, but this may be the dumbest original post I have ever read on this site.

[devildeac]

http://www.nbadraft.net/Classof2010.asp


http://www.draftexpress.com/rankings/NCAA-Sophomores


any more sources?

glaring in their absence: Mayo, Love, Beasley, Hanstravel

you nba fans out there with FAR more knowledge than me, please help me out-there must be others...

[Indoor66]

glaring in their absence: Mayo, Love, Beasley, Hanstravel

you nba fans out there with FAR more knowledge than me, please help me out-there must be others...

The lists on those sites are of current SOPHOMORES. 1st 3 above are freshmen and Hans is a Junior.

[Abraxas]

Mock Draft 2009 - http://www.nbadraft.net/index.asp?content=mock2009
as updated 1.28.08

ACC Players

16. Henderson - Duke

25. Lawson - UNC
26. Ellington - UNC
30. Hansbrough -UNC
54. Ginyard - UNC

35. Rice - BC


Draft Express has a mock for 2008 - no Duke players listed
http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2008/

For 2009 - Henderson is listed at 20.
http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2009/

Draft Express has the following comments and rankings as compared to each class regading Duke players. However, their profiles are really old.
http://www.draftexpress.com/clubhouse/Duke-100/