Duke getting killed

[Braves4Life]

Paulus was never an adequate point guard - that is part of the reason why they have sucked the last couple years. He can't face pressure at all and just dribbles near halfcourt with his back to the defense until he passes to more confident players. That is why he doesn't start.

I'm sorry, I don't agree. I always felt Paulus was adequate for Duke to make a run in the tournament. Duke's real problem has been that they just don't have the athletes to compete against these top caliber and athletic teams during post season play.

It's one thing when you can scout and prepare for your competition during the ACC season; Coach K is one of the best when given time to prepare and practice a game plan. However, when Duke is made to play "mano y mano" during the tournament with no time for Coach K to work his magic his Duke teams have major problems. They almost always lack quickness, size, and explosiveness on the boards.

I'm sorry bluedevil, but that's just "the book" on Duke year after year after.....

[bluedevils1]

I'm sorry, I don't agree. I always felt Paulus was adequate for Duke to make a run in the tournament. Duke's real problem has been that they just don't have the athletes to compete against these top caliber and athletic teams during post season play.

It's one thing when you can scout and prepare for your competition during the ACC season; Coach K is one of the best when given time to prepare and practice a game plan. However, when Duke is made to play "mano y mano" during the tournament with no time for Coach K to work his magic his Duke teams have major problems. They almost always lack quickness, size, and explosiveness on the boards.

I'm sorry bluedevil, but that's just "the book" on Duke year after year after.....

Like I said, Paulus is part of the reason. The rest, if you have read my many quotes on Duke, is on their lack of size and athleticism. They are basically like Bradley right now, except they go with Singler as the 5 more than we have Wilson at the 5. That simply doesn't work against bigger teams, and they get crushed on the boards and in drives in the paint. I'm definitely aware of "the book" as I have stated their weaknesses in the last few years more than anyone on this board.

Also, Coach K worked his magic in the past with little time. It's not like he suddenly chokes at coaching when the postseason comes around - only lately has the team performed below their norm because of the size issue.