Dismantling of Duke by Michigan State shows it might be time to recalibrate expectations for Blue Devils

Key Points:

• Duke, ranked No. 2, was decisively defeated 79-73 by No. 5 Michigan State in the Champions Classic, with Duke coach Jon Scheyer expressing frustration over the team's lack of toughness, connectivity, and poor guard play.
• Michigan State's strong defense, led by sophomore Jordan Scott's nine rebounds and six blocks, and the controlled point guard play of Jeremy Fears Jr., dominated Duke's frazzled offense, which scored just 0.75 points per possession in the first half.
• Duke's guards, including Cayden Boozer and Caleb Foster, struggled significantly, with Foster shooting only 2 of 10, and the much-hyped 17-year-old Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje was quiet, scoring just five points and four rebounds.
• Scheyer acknowledged the need for Duke to improve ball movement and shot selection, emphasizing a return to team-oriented "we" basketball and better utilization of key players like Boumtje Boumtje.
• Michigan State demonstrated the physicality and toughness characteristic of their program, positioning themselves as a serious contender for March, especially if they can combine their defense with improved shooting from freshmen Carlos Medlock Jr. and Jasiah Jervis.