3 Duke Transfer Portal Targets to Help Replace Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel
As Duke looks to fill the void left by two top-tier prospects, Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, in their 2025 recruiting class, the transfer portal will be a critical avenue for acquiring talent. Flagg, a consensus five-star recruit and one of the most hyped players in recent memory, committed to Duke in 2024, while Knueppel, a sharpshooting forward, is expected to make an impact in the program. However, with the possibility of key departures or shifts in the roster, head coach Jon Scheyer will need to turn to the transfer portal to replenish the team’s depth and talent. Here are three transfer portal targets who could play a pivotal role in helping to replace these key players:
1. Jameer Nelson Jr. (Guard, George Washington)
One of the biggest needs for Duke in the coming seasons could be a dynamic guard who can create offense and score at all three levels. Jameer Nelson Jr., who is transferring from George Washington, could be the ideal fit for the Blue Devils. Nelson, the son of former NBA star Jameer Nelson, is a proven scorer who has consistently been among the top performers in the Atlantic 10 conference. He averaged 20.6 points, 4.7 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game in the 2023-2024 season and possesses a strong all-around game with an ability to drive to the basket or knock down outside shots.
Nelson’s playmaking ability could be invaluable for Duke, helping to create more offensive opportunities in transition and set up teammates. His ability to score from anywhere on the floor and his experience as a primary ball handler would make him a strong candidate to fill the void left by any potential departures at the guard spot.
2. Matthew Cleveland (Wing, Florida State)
Duke will likely need to bring in a versatile wing player who can fill the gap left by Cooper Flagg. Matthew Cleveland, who has entered the transfer portal after a standout career at Florida State, could provide the Blue Devils with an immediate impact. Cleveland, a 6’7” athletic wing, has the length, mobility, and defensive prowess to make an immediate contribution at the ACC level. In his last season at Florida State, Cleveland averaged 14.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, proving his capability as a two-way player.
Cleveland would be a great fit in Coach Scheyer’s system, offering both scoring and defense on the perimeter. His experience in the ACC and ability to play multiple positions would be invaluable in helping to replace some of the versatility and length Duke is losing with Flagg’s departure.
3. Jordan Minor (Center, UMass)
While Duke will have returning talent in the frontcourt, adding another strong presence in the post could help fill the gap left by the departure of a top recruit like Flagg. Jordan Minor, who has entered the portal after an impressive stint at UMass, is a standout center who could provide Duke with an interior presence both offensively and defensively. Standing 6’8” with a solid frame, Minor averaged 17.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game last season, showcasing his ability to control the paint on both ends.
Minor’s rebounding and shot-blocking ability would significantly improve Duke’s defense, while his scoring ability down low could help balance their offense. Adding a player like Minor would give Duke another proven weapon in the frontcourt, and his ability to protect the rim and grab rebounds would complement their young big men as they look to make a run for a national title in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
Replacing elite talent like Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel is never easy, but with the right transfer portal additions, Duke can maintain its elite status in college basketball. Jameer Nelson Jr., Matthew Cleveland, and Jordan Minor represent three excellent options who can help fill the void left by these two key players. Coach Jon Scheyer’s ability to strategically target and land these players could keep Duke in championship contention as they navigate the future of college basketball.
