**Flagg Issue Highlights Duke's Need For Depth**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 09, 2024

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Flagg Issue Highlights Duke's Need for Depth

The Blue Devils' recent struggles, highlighted by the absence of freshman forward Dereck Lively II due to a right calf strain, have shone a bright light on a crucial need for Duke: depth. While the team boasts a talented starting lineup, the lack of reliable contributors off the bench has become a major obstacle. This issue, exemplified by the recent performance against Miami, underscores the importance of having a robust roster.

The Miami Game: A Case Study

The game against Miami saw Kyle Filipowski and Mark Mitchell shoulder a heavy load in Lively's absence. While they both performed admirably, the lack of reliable backup options forced them to play extensive minutes, leading to fatigue and ultimately, a 78-74 loss. This scenario serves as a stark reminder of the importance of depth. A team that can rely on consistent contributions from multiple players is better equipped to handle injuries and maintain momentum throughout a grueling season.

The Impact of Depth on Performance

Having depth on the roster translates to numerous benefits:

• Reduced fatigue: Players can share the workload, minimizing the risk of burnout and injury.
• Increased versatility: A deep bench allows coaches to experiment with different lineups and match-ups.
• Elevated competition: Having talented players vying for minutes pushes everyone to improve.
• Greater resilience: A deeper roster can weather the storm of injuries and maintain competitiveness.

Looking Ahead: Addressing the Depth Concerns

The Blue Devils are aware of the need to bolster their bench. Coach Jon Scheyer has emphasized the importance of developing young players and providing opportunities for them to gain experience. The addition of talented freshmen like Tyrese Proctor and Jaden Schutt offers hope for the future, but their immediate impact remains to be seen.

Furthermore, the team will need to prioritize roster construction in the upcoming years, ensuring that they consistently add players who can contribute at a high level.

Conclusion

While the Blue Devils have displayed flashes of brilliance, the absence of depth remains a persistent challenge. The team's success in the long run will heavily depend on their ability to develop a reliable bench unit. As Duke continues its journey through the season, the importance of depth will only become more apparent. The team must learn from these experiences and prioritize building a roster that can weather the storms and consistently compete at the highest level.