Duke added the top player in the class of 2018, and even better he is reclassifying to the class of 2017.
Bagley made his announcement on ESPN on Monday night and first announced he'll reclassify to the class of 2017. After that, he thanked Coach K and Danny Ferry, as they will allow him to wear Ferry's retired #35 at Duke.
Bagley is a tremendous talent who is described as a point forward. NBADraft.net compares Bagley to Lamar Odom, due to his length, ability to get to the rim, and it doesn't hurt that they're both left-handed.
Strengths: 6’10.5 athletic and versatile left handed forward … Good size and length for position with a 7’0.5 wingspan … Great athlete, gifted with tremendous coordination and fluidity at his size. Plays well above the rim with great body control … Can score from multiple spots on the floor. Shows some variety; can score in a different way each possession. Has range out to the three point line as well as the ability to score in the post. Can distribute and drive out of the post as well. Good slashing ability, excels when driving to the basket. Operates well on the baseline. Has a good running hook and touch on floater.
Bagley should come in and start at the 4 right away for Duke, and will put an end to the thought of Duke using Wendell Carter and Marques Bolden in tandem. While most are now predicting Duke as preseason #1, its worth noting the same honor was given to Duke last year. Injuries and chemistry played a big factor in that team, so it remains to be seen what happens this season. Chemistry, in particular, could be challenging as Bagley will join a team that has been assembled most of the summer. Further, Coach K just had knee surgery and won't be as available as he normally is.
Those are minor issues though, and talent can solve a lot of problems. In that sense, Bagley is Mr. Fix-it because he's immensely talented and a perfect fit for this Duke system.
