Louisville Cardinals vs Duke Blue Devils Picks and Predictions December 8th 2024

Louisville: Battling Injuries and Inconsistency

The Louisville Cardinals (5-3) are struggling to find their footing amidst a string of injuries and offensive inefficiencies. Coming off an 86-63 loss to No. 23 Ole Miss, the Cardinals face their second ranked opponent in a week.

Key Challenges for Louisville

1. Injuries: Louisville has been hit hard by the injury bug.
   • Kasean Pryor: The senior wing, a key contributor with 12 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, is out for the season after suffering a knee injury.
   • Koren Johnson: The freshman guard will redshirt after undergoing shoulder surgery.
   • Aly Khalifa and Kobe Rodgers: Both were ruled out for the season before it began.
   While Aboubacar Traore is expected back later this season, the team’s depth is stretched thin.
2. Shooting Woes: The Cardinals are shooting just 27.3% from beyond the arc, ranking 340th nationally. Despite averaging 31.6 attempts per game, their inability to convert has hampered the effectiveness of Pat Kelsey’s offense.

“The percentages even themselves out,” Kelsey said. “I just don’t want our guys to lose confidence.”

3. Defensive Struggles: Louisville allowed Ole Miss to shoot 56.7% from the field and dominate inside, outscoring the Cardinals 48-26 in the paint.

Players to Watch for Louisville

• Tre White: The sophomore forward leads the team in scoring (15.8 ppg) and will be tasked with anchoring the offense.
• Skyy Clark: Averaging 13.4 points and 5.0 assists per game, Clark must step up as a playmaker in the absence of key contributors.

Duke: Finding Its Groove

The No. 9 Duke Blue Devils (6-2) are coming off a statement win over No. 2 Auburn in the SEC/ACC Challenge. Duke’s balanced offense, efficient shooting, and disciplined play have the team firing on all cylinders.

Key Strengths for Duke

1. Cooper Flagg’s Leadership: The freshman phenom leads Duke in multiple categories, including scoring (16.6 ppg), rebounding (8.6 rpg), and assists (4.1 apg). His versatility and composure have been critical for the Blue Devils.
2. Supporting Cast: Freshman Isaiah Evans delivered a breakout performance against Auburn, scoring 18 points on 6 of 8 shooting from beyond the arc.

“To have that amazing courage … I’m not sure if I’ve ever been a part of something like that,” Duke coach Jon Scheyer said of Evans’ performance.

3. Turnover Discipline: Duke committed just four turnovers against Auburn, showcasing their ability to take care of the ball in high-pressure situations.

Players to Watch for Duke

• Cooper Flagg: The dynamic freshman will be the focal point on both ends of the court.
• Isaiah Evans: The sharpshooter could provide another scoring spark off the bench.
• Tyrese Proctor: A steady presence in the backcourt, Proctor adds playmaking and defensive tenacity.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Louisville’s Perimeter Shooting vs. Duke’s Defense: The Cardinals will need a strong shooting performance to stay competitive. Duke’s ability to contest shots and force low-percentage attempts will be critical.
• Tre White vs. Cooper Flagg: White must lead Louisville’s offense while also defending one of the nation’s top players in Flagg.
• Louisville’s Depth vs. Duke’s Bench: With injuries depleting Louisville’s roster, Duke’s depth and bench production could prove decisive.

What’s at Stake?

• For Louisville: A win would provide a morale boost and some much-needed momentum as the Cardinals navigate injuries and early-season struggles.
• For Duke: Continuing to build confidence and maintaining their top-10 ranking are key objectives as they begin ACC play.

Who will claim the title? Find out in College Basketball Championship Odds!

Prediction

Duke’s depth, efficiency, and star power make them overwhelming favorites in this matchup. While Louisville may put up a fight at home, the combination of injuries and offensive struggles will likely be too much to overcome.

Final Score Prediction: Duke 84, Louisville 65