Originally Posted by
scottdude8
I had an inkling this might be the case when he committed, but after three games I'm convinced. Jordan Goldwire is gonna be our next Tyler Thornton, and TBH I couldn't be happier since TT was one of my favorites. Consider the similarities:
—Both were overlooked, 3* recruits who people didn't expect much of in their freshman years, if ever
—Both also came in a recruiting class including a top PG, making them even more overlooked
—Both were known as defensive specialists in HS, including shutting down many higher ranked PG recruits
—Both have surprised by contributing very early in their respective Duke careers
I won't jinx things by mentioning the big event that happened in TT's freshman year that we all hope Goldwire's doesn't have in common.
Nonetheless, I'm of the mind that nothing but good things can come if Goldwire continues to merit 5-10 minutes of run a game. Not only does this allow Duval some rest (we all know freshman can get a little run down, especially in a K 7/8 man rotation), it will ensure Grayson doesn't have to step over and run the point, allowing him to focus on refining his role as an off-ball guard that he certainly seems to be relishing. Plus, getting that little bit of PT each game will vastly accelerate Goldwire's development (for an example, take a look at recent Michigan basketball history and all the guys who took huge leaps between their freshman and sophomore years, helped by the experience they got playing some minutes as opposed to none as freshmen), to the point that he might be a major bench contributor in years 2/3 and maybe even a senior starter and leader in year 4.
Yes, this may be way down the list of important stories to come out of the first week of the regular season, but I'm a sucker for PG's who play great D and can run an offense. I'm psyched.