3 Key Duke Players to Watch in March Madness

2. Jared McCain

Often overlooked because of the highly productive upperclassmen on the team, Jared McCain will be the name that will determine the ceiling of this Duke team. The freshman guard, who was one of the top recruits in the 2023 class, has fulfilled all expectations so far, finishing the year with 13.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.

The thing that pops off the screen when you watch McCain is his ability to score. He can do it in various ways. Not only is he an elite three-point shooter (40% from three on 5.6 attempts per game), but he is also able to create his own shot. He has a mid-range game, an excellent floater, and a versatility in his jump shot that allows him to get it off on the move.

Earlier in the season, McCain scored 35 points and hit eight three-pointers against Florida State, setting all-time freshman records for Duke. His ability to take over games will come in handy when things get bogged down in the tournament.

Sometimes McCain becomes an afterthought for the Blue Devils, who have plenty of offensive weapons. But McCain's dynamism with the ball is unmatched on this team. It would benefit Duke to get him going early in games and establish a rhythm. If the Blue Devils are going far, McCain needs to be as involved as possible.