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#askcoachb what is duke back up plan if they do not land the package deal of okafor/Jones??
— Martell Burleson (@Wright_1_Card) September 11, 2013
Already committed to Duke next year is Grayson Allen, who had a fantastic summer scoring the basketball and showing some defensive toughness. Looking to join him are a few names below who would be difference-makers to say the least.
Aside from courting the package deal of ESPN No. 1 Jahlil Okafor and the No. 1 PG Tyus Jones, the Blue Devils are heavily involved with other high-level players who fit their needs on the floor and their culture off the court. Big man Myles Turner, SF Justise Winslow, PF Kevon Looney, C Goodluck Okonoboh, and now PF Reid Travis are being pursued by Duke. With the departure of seniors Tyler Thornton, and Josh Hairston and the possibility of Jabari Parker or even Rasheed Sulaimon entering the NBA draft, depending on their season and how Duke does as a team, there is plenty of space on the Duke roster.
There is not another point guard in that group, as Quinn Cook will be at the controls in what would be his senior year, so Duke does not have a dire need at that position. Looking ahead, Coach K and staff will be immediately diving into the Class of 2015 for a point guard, which they might have to do even if Jones comes, because he could be a one-and-done player.
No program is tipping its hand as to where it stands, and Okafor and Jones have said they want to finish taking all of their visits and decide together some time in November. That is the plan, but in recruiting it could change at a moment's notice.
If Duke does not get Okafor and Jones, look for the Blue Devils to land a combination of three prospects in the above group and pass on a point guard this year.
