Luke Kennard Is An Ace Up Duke’s Sleeve

Despite high preseason expectations, Duke has not had an easy ride so far. Injuries and then Grayson Allen’s suspension have contributed to a sense of unevenness.

Yet Duke is still 12-1 and just one shot away from being undefeated.

A big reason for that is the brilliant play of Luke Kennard.

Remember that going into the season a lot of people didn’t see where Kennard was going to fit in. Other people were projected ahead of him.

Kennard’s season so far is testament to hard work and sticking to it. He’s averaging 20.4 ppg, 5.9 rpg and 2.8 apg. He’s shooting 52% - outstanding for anyone but especially for a guard - and 42.7% from three point range.

He’s also become a Player of The Year candidate and the focus of Duke’s offense.

Earlier in the year when Allen was hurt we had a puckish Star Wars moment and thought “no. There is another.”

We hope that Allen gets himself together and can go back to being an impact player. in the meantime, Duke can rely on Kennard for consistent offense and leadership.