Originally Posted by
JBDuke
I don't know what Chris was referring to, but I agree with his assessment, mostly.
I think this team did lack confidence or mental toughness. I think it showed on the FT line several times. I think it showed when we missed open shots or layups near the end of several games. I think it showed in turnovers under crucial circumstances.
Part of that is lacking a veteran leader who can be a calming presence. This team just had very little of that Duke swagger. That "I'm gonna make this shot and send you home" look and toughness. Or the "you're NOT scoring on me" attitude. This team would take big shots from opponents and get staggered, rather than punching back.
The chemistry showed in the lack of communication - often cited by K in his post-games as the crux of our problems on D of late, and also showing up in turnovers and other mistakes. This may not be a chemistry problem as much as a youth problem - we'll see about that. But certainly, communication was relatively poor for a Duke team.
That said, a year of experience may help a lot. The injection of new blood may help, too, especially with the talent of the three guys coming in. I remain hopeful that next year's team could return Duke to the glory to which it has become accustomed (and hopefully, shut up some of the whiners and naysayers that have come out of the woodwork...)