What does Duke's newest addition to the class of 2018 add to the roster?
The addition of small forward Joey Baker, who reclassified from 2019 to 2018, is a win -win for the Blue Devils no matter what his contribution is to this years team. There are two schools of thought with Joey Baker; Baker, in this class can be the long range shot maker along with sophomore Alex O'Connell that the Blue Devils need to round out a multi-dimensional offensive group. With the 4 other freshmen not being adept outside shooters a player like Baker could make all the difference and give Coach K and company some options. Also at 6'7 Baker could be an ideal pick and pop player as a stretch 4.
The other option for Baker is a redshirt, being able to practice with the team and spend a year within the system preparing for the 2019 team could also pay huge dividends for both Bakers development and for Duke's potential roster which cold very well be much younger than the previous 2 seasons. Duke is expecting a big class in 2019 and Baker should be an integral piece on that team.
Baker is a perimeter forward with good size who can score at every level, he's a player that comes in with a nice toolbox of skills. Baker shot 40% from 3 point range as a sophomore and 43% as a junior at the high school level and has provided consistent production throughout his career.
