Without Tyrese Proctor, Duke’s projected starting five could include Jaden Schutt, Jeremy Roach, Dariq Whitehead, Mackenzie Mgbako, Filipowski.

The Duke Blue Devils are gearing up for the 2024-25 season with high expectations, and even though Tyrese Proctor is expected to be a crucial part of the squad, what if he’s unavailable or not starting for some reason? Coach Jon Scheyer, in his second year as head coach of the Blue Devils, has plenty of talent at his disposal, with several players capable of stepping up and assuming starting roles. Without Proctor, Duke’s lineup would likely shift, but it would still feature an array of talented players capable of competing at the highest levels of college basketball.

If Proctor doesn’t start or is sidelined, the projected starting five for Duke could include Jaden Schutt, Jeremy Roach, Dariq Whitehead, Mackenzie Mgbako, and Kyle Filipowski. This combination brings together elite shooting, versatile defense, size, and leadership — all key elements for a team looking to make a deep NCAA tournament run. Let’s take a deeper dive into how each of these players could contribute to a Proctor-less starting lineup.

Jaden Schutt (Sophomore Guard)

Jaden Schutt, a sophomore guard, could very well slot into a starting role in the absence of Proctor. Schutt’s greatest asset is his elite shooting ability, particularly from beyond the arc. Coming out of high school, Schutt was known for his proficiency as a shooter, and while he had a limited role as a freshman, his shooting stroke has continued to be his defining characteristic.

Offensive Role

With Tyrese Proctor not in the starting lineup, Schutt’s three-point shooting would be even more crucial for Duke’s spacing and offensive flow. Schutt’s ability to knock down open shots from the perimeter could help open up driving lanes for other players like Jeremy Roach and Mackenzie Mgbako. Duke would need to rely on Schutt’s shooting to keep the floor spaced, especially if they are facing a team with a strong interior defense.

Schutt’s potential to grow as a creator off the dribble should not be overlooked, though his primary role will likely be as a catch-and-shoot option early on in his career. If he can develop his playmaking skills and become more comfortable as a secondary ball handler, Schutt could elevate his game to become a multi-dimensional offensive threat.

Defensive Contributions

Defensively, Schutt’s focus will be on becoming a reliable perimeter defender. As a sophomore, he will have gained experience defending some of the top guards in the ACC, which could allow him to hold his own against quicker, more experienced players. His defensive development will be key to securing a consistent spot in the rotation, particularly in a starting role.

While Schutt isn’t known for elite athleticism or lockdown defense, his ability to play with discipline and fight through screens will be important as Duke faces off against the top teams in the ACC.

Jeremy Roach (Senior Guard)

Jeremy Roach is one of the most experienced players on the Duke roster, and his leadership in the backcourt will be critical, especially without Tyrese Proctor. Roach is a steady presence on the floor, known for his ability to handle the ball, facilitate for teammates, and take over in clutch situations.

Offensive Role

Roach is a talented scoring guard who has shown the ability to create his own shot and facilitate the offense for others. His scoring ability will be crucial in the absence of Proctor, as Roach has proven to be capable of stepping up when needed. Averages of 13.6 points and 4.4 assists per game during his junior year indicate that Roach has the capability to handle the load offensively.

As the lead ball handler, Roach will be tasked with running the offense and making sure the Blue Devils stay organized. His ability to distribute the basketball and get his teammates involved will help elevate the play of players like Filipowski, Mgbako, and Whitehead. Roach’s poise under pressure is also something that will make him invaluable in close games, particularly in the NCAA tournament.

Defensive Contributions

Roach’s defense has improved throughout his time at Duke, and he has the quickness and length to guard multiple positions. As Duke’s primary ball handler, he will likely be matched up against opposing point guards, and his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers will be a key component of Duke’s defensive identity.

Roach’s leadership and defensive presence in the backcourt will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the team. If he can consistently guard the ball and provide defensive pressure, it will elevate Duke’s overall defensive effort.

Dariq Whitehead (Freshman Forward)

Dariq Whitehead is one of the most highly anticipated freshmen on the Duke roster, and his impact will be felt immediately. At 6’7” and with a versatile skill set, Whitehead is expected to be a major contributor on both ends of the floor. His ability to play both the small forward and shooting guard positions makes him a valuable asset for Coach Scheyer.

Offensive Role

Whitehead is an excellent all-around scorer who can attack the basket, hit mid-range jump shots, and even knock down three-pointers. His scoring versatility will be especially important in a lineup without Tyrese Proctor, as Duke will need offensive creators who can create their own shots. Whitehead’s ability to drive to the basket with his strong frame and finish in traffic will give Duke another option to complement Jeremy Roach and the frontcourt players.

Additionally, Whitehead’s length and athleticism will allow him to get out in transition, where he could thrive in fast-break opportunities. Duke will look to maximize his potential as a two-way player who can score in a variety of ways and defend multiple positions.

Defensive Contributions

Defensively, Whitehead’s length and athleticism give him the tools to guard both wings and guards effectively. His versatility will allow him to switch on screens and contribute to Duke’s team defense. As a freshman, Whitehead may still need to adjust to the speed and physicality of college basketball, but his raw potential on the defensive end should allow him to be a reliable contributor from the start.

Duke’s ability to create mismatches on defense with Whitehead’s length and athleticism will make him an asset, especially in lineup rotations where he can defend multiple positions.

Mackenzie Mgbako (Freshman Forward)

Mackenzie Mgbako, another highly ranked freshman, is one of the most versatile players in Duke’s 2024 recruiting class. Mgbako brings size, athleticism, and an impressive offensive game that will allow him to thrive as both a forward and wing. At 6’8” and with the ability to stretch the floor, Mgbako has the potential to be a game-changer for Duke.

Offensive Role

Offensively, Mgbako’s versatility is his biggest asset. He has the ability to score in the post, shoot from the perimeter, and attack off the dribble. With Tyrese Proctor absent from the starting five, Mgbako’s offensive contributions become even more important. His ability to space the floor with three-point shooting and create mismatches on the block will be critical for Duke’s offense.

Mgbako’s ability to play inside and out makes him an ideal fit in the modern college basketball game, and he can create opportunities for himself and others. Whether it’s as a wing player or power forward, Mgbako’s offensive tools make him a dynamic threat on the floor.

Defensive Contributions

Defensively, Mgbako is a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. His size and athleticism allow him to defend wings and big men, and his ability to move his feet and stay in front of quicker players will help Duke’s defensive schemes. He has the potential to be one of the better defenders on the team, and his defensive presence will be important as Duke looks to build a championship-caliber defense.

Kyle Filipowski (Sophomore Forward)

Kyle Filipowski, coming off a standout freshman campaign, will be one of the most important players on the 2024-25 squad. Standing at 7 feet tall, Filipowski is an elite scorer and rebounder who will be tasked with anchoring both the offense and defense.

Offensive Role

Filipowski’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and play in the post will be a major asset for Duke. With his size, he’s able to dominate in the paint and can hit mid-range shots or three-pointers. His ability to space the floor and create mismatches with smaller defenders will make him difficult to defend. Without Proctor, Filipowski may take on a more prominent role in Duke’s offensive sets, with the ball being run through him on occasion.

His rebounding ability, averaging 9.2 rebounds per game as a freshman, will be crucial in controlling the glass and creating second-chance opportunities. Filipowski’s presence as a floor-spacing big man and interior scorer will be indispensable to Duke’s offensive attack.

Defensive Contributions

Defensively, Filipowski’s length and skill set make him an important shot blocker and rebounder. His ability to protect the rim and defend in the post will give Duke a solid defensive presence inside. As a sophomore, Filipowski will look to improve his footwork and consistency on defense, but his raw skills make him an important piece of the team’s defensive scheme.