Road to Minneapolis: Spotlight games
January 18, 2019 at 4:28AM
Saturday: 5 p.m. ESPN
Talk about the worst timing for Duke to be without point guard Tre Jones, out indefinitely because of a shoulder injury. Jones is arguably Coach K's most important player. The Cavaliers' D is No. 2 in efficiency, per KenPom.
No. 2 Michigan at Wisconsin
Saturday: 11 a.m. ESPN
The Wolverines haven't found their match in the Big Ten, but this is a tricky road test in Madison. Wisconsin has lost two straight at the Kohl Center, but the Badgers have historically been tough to beat at home for anyone.
TRENDS TO WATCH
Trending up: Buzzer-beaters. How about a taste of March Madness in January? That happened last week with three buzzer-beaters that might not be topped again this season: Cam Reddish's shot let Duke escape Florida State; UTEP's Jordan Lathon nailed a baseline jumper; and Texas A&M's T.J. Starks hit a three to beat Bama.
Trending down: Indiana and Ohio State. Two Big Ten sleeper teams have not just fallen out of that race — they have lost a combined six straight games. Indiana's third straight loss came in blowout fashion at home to a rising Nebraska team. The Buckeyes better not drop a fourth consecutive game Friday against Maryland.
PLAYER TO WATCH
De'Andre Hunter, forward, Virginia
The 6-7 sophomore is averaging 14.4 points on 44 percent shooting from three, to go with 5.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists. His 21-point performance helped beat No. 9 Virginia Tech on Tuesday. He could be the difference vs. Duke on Saturday.
about the writer
A former Gophers player, Taylor Landfair, helped the No. 2 Huskers hand No.16 Minnesota its third consecutive loss.
