In most cases, no. And, in many respects, this game really doesn't mean a lot relative to games that loom later in the season with significantly higher stakes.
However, I think this could turn out to be a very meaningful game for several reasons.
1. Of course, the performance by Grayson Allen was as spectacular a game as anyone at Duke has had - JJ-esque ... but better. Reminded me of Reddick in a big December game in '04 against Texas in his senior season. Except this was better against a better defensive team. Has to give Allen some great confidence. If he can continue to play to his abilities Duke will be in great shape.
2. Connected to the first, is that while surely his younger teammates already respected Allen as a player/teammate and leader, when you put your team on your shoulders like that in a big, competitive game, one that counts, that raises the level of respect as a leader you will listen to on the court.
3. Zone the entire game? Whaaaat? Of course, K has employed zone here or there, but I don't remember that degree of commitment to it; and, it was probably one of the better zones we've played. The zone for this team allows them to fast break on a missed shot or or steal and I think it also plays into Duke's length and quickness in jumping the passing lanes. Evidence 12 steals, including 6 by Duval and 3 by DeLaurier. This also shows K's willingness to adjust to players.
4. What may be the most significant feature of this game, is how the young Duke team went against an older, mentally and physically tough MSU team. I felt through most of the 2nd half, this game was going to come down to mental and physical toughness and for a few minutes it looked like MSU's physicality was going to eventually win out. But, of course, Allen. Nevertheless, there was significant mental fortitude by all the young guys. Without Allen they would have lost. However, I think that they held their own, especially with Bagley out. Win or lose, I think that they would have demonstrated this to themselves. So, a great learning experience. Couple of thoughts on other players:
* Wendell Carter doesn't look bulked up, but he plays like he has a lot of bulk. That dude just knows how to rebound, plays tough, is not intimidated, and doesn't quit. Loved watching him play and he is a player I wish we could see for 2-3 seasons because of the way he plays.
* Trevin Duval ... if had a decent 3 point shot, he might be the best freshmen in the country even over Bagley or Jackson. Every other part of his game is that good.
The one thing they can't do is let up. This is a great test and gives them both confidence and some good lessons about what it will take to win in March - which means they will have to build on this game and grow in their mental and physical toughness.
However, I think this could turn out to be a very meaningful game for several reasons.
1. Of course, the performance by Grayson Allen was as spectacular a game as anyone at Duke has had - JJ-esque ... but better. Reminded me of Reddick in a big December game in '04 against Texas in his senior season. Except this was better against a better defensive team. Has to give Allen some great confidence. If he can continue to play to his abilities Duke will be in great shape.
2. Connected to the first, is that while surely his younger teammates already respected Allen as a player/teammate and leader, when you put your team on your shoulders like that in a big, competitive game, one that counts, that raises the level of respect as a leader you will listen to on the court.
3. Zone the entire game? Whaaaat? Of course, K has employed zone here or there, but I don't remember that degree of commitment to it; and, it was probably one of the better zones we've played. The zone for this team allows them to fast break on a missed shot or or steal and I think it also plays into Duke's length and quickness in jumping the passing lanes. Evidence 12 steals, including 6 by Duval and 3 by DeLaurier. This also shows K's willingness to adjust to players.
4. What may be the most significant feature of this game, is how the young Duke team went against an older, mentally and physically tough MSU team. I felt through most of the 2nd half, this game was going to come down to mental and physical toughness and for a few minutes it looked like MSU's physicality was going to eventually win out. But, of course, Allen. Nevertheless, there was significant mental fortitude by all the young guys. Without Allen they would have lost. However, I think that they held their own, especially with Bagley out. Win or lose, I think that they would have demonstrated this to themselves. So, a great learning experience. Couple of thoughts on other players:
* Wendell Carter doesn't look bulked up, but he plays like he has a lot of bulk. That dude just knows how to rebound, plays tough, is not intimidated, and doesn't quit. Loved watching him play and he is a player I wish we could see for 2-3 seasons because of the way he plays.
* Trevin Duval ... if had a decent 3 point shot, he might be the best freshmen in the country even over Bagley or Jackson. Every other part of his game is that good.
The one thing they can't do is let up. This is a great test and gives them both confidence and some good lessons about what it will take to win in March - which means they will have to build on this game and grow in their mental and physical toughness.
