Duke Basketball’s Transfer Portal Needs: Three Key Areas to Address
After a strong, albeit unfinished, run to the Final Four in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, Duke basketball is looking to reload and strengthen its roster for the 2025-26 season. With the added benefit of NIL funds and a solid foundation of young talent, Coach Jon Scheyer is in an excellent position to address several key areas in the transfer portal. Here are three key needs for Duke basketball as they look to fine-tune their roster through transfers:
1. Veteran Backcourt Depth
While Duke boasts impressive talent in the backcourt, adding experienced guards via the transfer portal would provide the team with additional leadership and stability. The Blue Devils will likely need a proven point guard or shooting guard with strong ball-handling skills to complement their younger players. A veteran presence can also help manage the game, particularly in high-pressure moments, and provide a steadying influence in close matchups.
Duke’s current roster has young talent, but pairing them with a seasoned transfer guard who can run the offense, distribute the ball, and hit clutch shots would elevate the team. This addition would also provide necessary depth, as injuries and foul trouble are always concerns throughout the long college basketball season.
2. A Stretch Forward or Shooter
Duke’s ability to space the floor and create mismatches on offense could be greatly enhanced by adding a stretch forward to the roster. A player capable of knocking down consistent three-pointers and providing spacing around key interior players, such as a dominant center or athletic wings, would unlock more offensive potential for the Blue Devils.
While Duke has great talent in the frontcourt, having a forward who can shoot from range would make it difficult for opposing defenses to pack the paint and focus solely on Duke’s interior players. A versatile stretch forward who can defend multiple positions and contribute offensively would be an ideal addition to this roster and give Coach Scheyer a more dynamic lineup.
3. A Shot-Blocking Rim Protector
Even though Duke has historically been known for its defense, the 2025-26 team could benefit from adding an elite shot-blocking center or forward to protect the rim. While the Blue Devils have strong players in the paint, bolstering their interior defense with an experienced shot-blocker would provide much-needed depth and security in the post.
This type of player would not only help with rim protection but also aid in rebounding, particularly on the defensive end. A dominant defensive presence in the paint could alleviate some pressure on Duke’s guards and wings, allowing them to focus more on perimeter defense and fast breaks. Additionally, such a player would be crucial in tournament games where matchups against strong, physical teams could make a difference.
Conclusion:
As Duke looks ahead to the 2025-26 season, the transfer portal will play a key role in addressing these areas of need: veteran backcourt depth, a stretch forward or shooter, and an elite shot-blocking rim protector. With the influx of NIL funds and a top-tier coaching staff, Coach Jon Scheyer is well-positioned to strengthen the roster and build a team that is not only talented but also well-rounded and prepared for a championship run.
