As Duke prepares for the 2025 NCAA season, the Blue Devils are keeping a close eye on their roster, especially with Khaman Maluach potentially declaring for the NBA Draft. If Maluach decides to leave for the pros, it will create a hole in Duke’s frontcourt, a crucial area for any team looking to compete for a national title. Coach Jon Scheyer will need to turn to the transfer portal to fill that gap. Here are the top 5 transfer portal targets for Duke if Maluach declares for the 2025 NBA Draft.
1. Jaden Ivey (Purdue)
Jaden Ivey is an explosive 6’4″ guard with a rare combination of athleticism, speed, and scoring ability. While Ivey is likely to test the NBA Draft waters, he could return to college if he doesn’t achieve the draft expectations he’s aiming for. He’d provide immediate scoring and playmaking in the backcourt, a strong complement to any future Blue Devil stars like Tyrese Proctor. His defensive prowess and speed would allow Duke to push the pace, something they could look to do more of in 2025.
2. Adrian Wooley (Kennesaw State)
A dynamic scorer from Kennesaw State, Adrian Wooley would be a great addition to Duke’s backcourt. At 6’5″, Wooley averaged nearly 19 points per game in his freshman season and proved himself to be a reliable shooter with a 42% clip from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and create his own shot would make him a perfect fit for Duke, especially as they look to replace potential scoring voids left by players like Maluach.
3. Chris Livingston (Kentucky)
A 6’6″ forward from Kentucky, Livingston offers versatility and experience. Known for his defensive skills and ability to guard multiple positions, he would be a welcome addition to Duke’s frontcourt. While not necessarily a traditional center, Livingston’s athleticism, rebounding, and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor could help Duke overcome the absence of Maluach and provide a scoring spark when needed.
4. Zachary Perrin (France)
If Duke wants to add a true center to replace Maluach’s role, Zachary Perrin from France could be a game-changer. Perrin has impressed scouts with his ability to dominate the paint both offensively and defensively. Standing at 6’10”, he possesses the size and skill to be an immediate contributor at the college level. His ability to protect the rim and grab rebounds would be crucial for Duke, especially in a tough ACC schedule.
5. Donovan Dent (New Mexico)
New Mexico guard Donovan Dent is an intriguing option, especially for a Duke team in need of more offensive firepower. At 6’2″, Dent averaged 20.4 points per game and proved himself as a capable shooter, particularly from deep. He would provide immediate offensive depth and could help take some of the scoring load off the team’s other players. His ability to create off the dribble would be an asset in a fast-paced system.
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Duke’s strategy in the transfer portal will be pivotal, as Maluach’s departure would create a gap in both scoring and rebounding. These five players could help fill that void and make Duke a more well-rounded team moving into the 2025 season. The Blue Devils have a history of capitalizing on transfer portal acquisitions, and with these targets, they could remain competitive on a national level.
