The probable Duke basketball starting five against Michigan State
By Matt Giles
A probable Duke basketball starter versus Michigan State: Matthew Hurt
The sophomore version of Matthew Hurt was by no means spectacular as a starter at the five-spot against Coppin State. But the 6-foot-9, 235-pound stretch-four, who started 22 of 31 games last season at the four-spot as a freshman, did display some encouraging improvements to his game.
More aggressive. More confident. Stronger. Crisper. Wiser. If not for foul trouble, Hurt probably would have contributed more than 12 points, seven rebounds, one assist, and one steal in his first game as a second-year Blue Devil.
Besides, his stroke looked to be on the verge of seriously heating up on Saturday after a few early misses. Hurt, whose 42 makes from three led all Blue Devils last season, ended up 5-for-11 from the field, including 2-for-5 from beyond the arc.
As was the case versus the Eagles, the former heralded five-star from Minnesota is likely to finish among the top three on the squad in points, rebounds, and minutes per game. And barring an injury, Hurt is likely to start every game for Duke this season, whether at the four or five (possibly even at the three when facing opponents with loads of physical bigs).
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