Mason Plumlee Moving into Lottery
Slowly, but surely, Duke junior forward Mason Plumlee's offensive game is developing and his defense keeps steadily improving. Combined with his size, athleticism and ability to get up and down the floor, Plumlee's NBA Draft stock has been on the incline over the past several weeks, posting double-doubles in two of the last three games, averaging 15.6 points, 10 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 steals a game in this small sample. But he is working himself in as an integral member of the Duke offense, which has routinely been guard-oriented over the last decade. The only Blue Devil frontcourt player that had more of an impact was Shelden Williams, who demanded double-teams and helped space the floor for J.J. Redick. While Plumlee is nowhere near as dominant or efficient scoring in the blocks, he is a tremendous presence on the defensive end of the floor and a threat to get out in transition and beat his man down the floor for a dunk.
This season more than ever, the middle-Plumlee is showing off his mobility, energy and hustle, and versatility. He is becoming more comfortable putting the ball on the floor to initiate offense (though it's not always pretty) and working on his mid-range jumper in the process. His low-post game still needs some fine-tuning, but he has taken strides and will likely be considered on most teams' draft board from picks 8-15.
By President Corey Ruff - 12 - 8 - 11
