Alex O'Connell: Depth Gives Team "a Free Mindset"

Not having set roles are good for the team

Duke had to play without team leader and defensive stalwart Tre Jones on Tuesday. The sophomore point guard left the game against Central Arkansas early after colliding with an opposing player.

Alex O’Connell said the experience was good for the team, since they had to step up to fill the vacancy left by Jones.

“It shows if Tre’s not in the game, we have to pick up the defensive intensity,” he said. “Sort of pick up the slack where he’s left off, because he’s such a great on-ball defender. If we can pick up that intensity when he’s out, that will make us an even better defensive team.”

The team’s depth means that players will be expected to play in several different roles, depending on the lineup on the floor. Versatility helps coach Mike Krzyzewski mix and match to match up with opponents.

“Definitely, not having a strict role, everybody knows what they can do,” O’Connell said. “We try to make sure we do what we do to the best of our abilities. It gives you a more free mindset, and it gives you more confidence going into the game.”

The plan is for Duke to be a deep, dangerous team ready to make a run in the NCAA tournament when March rolls around.

“Come the postseason, that’s what you work all season for,” he said. “That’s why you play the tough games, play road games. Our big focus is to prepare each game like we do all the time, no matter who we’re playing or who our opponent is.”