Ultimate X-Factor: Marshall Plumlee
After yesterday's game against Toledo, Coach K mentioned that he would consider playing Marshall Plumlee alongside Jahlil Okafor. I, for one, look forward to seeing how this might play out over the course of the conference season. Plumlee started to get consistent minutes during conference play last season. He was mostly filling a gaping hole the team had at the post position. This season, the team has a hole on the bench since Semi Ojeleye decided to transfer. If Plumlee and Okafor can coexist on the court for 5-10 minutes a game, this Duke team could take a leap forward.
On Offense
This is the biggest question; Can the two towers coexist? I think so. The offense generally runs through Okafor. Amile Jefferson doesn't get offense run for him, so Plumlee can step into his role of setting screens and rolling to the basket when the defense collapses on Okafor. He's an excellent offensive rebounder, like Jefferson, but has the added advantage of superior athleticism. Jefferson is a much better ball handler and has been showing the occasional mid-range jumper. Plumlee doesn't do those things, but you can live with him setting screens and rolling to the hoop for 5-10 minutes a game. When Okafor sits, the offense runs through the guards. We've seen it work, although it is not the prettiest thing in the world.
On Defense
Here's where having Plumlee play 20 minutes a game could really help. By virtue of being tall and a good jumper, Plumlee is a very good shot blocker. He can disrupt shots and, even though averaging a shade under 10 minutes a game, has racked up 10 blocks in 11 games. That's good for second on the team. Imagine a team having to go through Okafor and Plumlee at the rim. Just having that length out there for 10 minutes a night would shake up the defense.
I'm really looking forward to seeing a twin towers lineup out there for 5-10 minutes a game in the near future. Hopefully it works out!