Potential Duke Transfer Target Suddenly Hits the Portal

The Blue Devils may have just gotten lucky with the latest transfer portal news.
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
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Duke will have a completely new roster next season, with most of their rotation being overturned this offseason. This includes Kyle Filipowski and Jared McCain who are going to the NBA, as well as Jeremy Roach, Mark Mitchell, and multiple bench players entering the transfer portal.

The Blue Devils obviously have one of the most talented recruiting classes in the country. Headlined by Cooper Flagg, the incoming freshmen class will play a huge part in Jon Scheyer's rotation next season.

However, they still have to fill out the rest of the roster. Duke is still light in backcourt depth, with Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster being the only reliable guards. To bolster their depth, they will need to rely on the transfer portal.

Fortunately for them, not only are there guards still available on the transfer portal, but there are more entering it every day. The latest name circulating online should excite Duke fans.

Florida Transfer Riley Kugel is an Intriguing Option for Duke

A few weeks ago, it was announced that Riley Kugel out of Florida was transferring to Kansas to play under head coach Bill Self. Now, it is being reported that Kugel will look to play elsewhere as he rescinds his commitment to the Jayhawks.

This provides an opportunity for the Blue Devils. Kugel is entering his junior year after two seasons with the Florida Gators. The combo guard started in 28 games in Florida but lost his starting spot mid-season and saw a reduction in his playing time as the season progressed.

In 2023-24, Kugel averaged 9.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.1 steals in 23.3 minutes per game. His efficiency, however, left plenty to be desired as he finished the year with 39.4% from the field and 31.2% from three.

Duke would ideally want more of a pure point guard who can also shoot the ball. However, players of that caliber don't grow on trees. Kugel might be the next best thing for Scheyer & Co.

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