The Blue Devils reached the Sweet 16 thanks to an outstanding performance by Jared McCain.
McCain was unconscious in Duke’s win over James Madison, starting the game 6-for-6 from 3-point range to lead the Blue Devils to a double-digit lead in an instant. His hot hand never cooled down and he finished with 30 points on 8-of-11 shooting from 3 to help Duke to the victory.
McCain was already a projected first-round pick before the NCAA Tournament began, but the freshman star helped his stock through the first two games.
What is it about McCain’s game that makes him a potential 2024 lottery pick? The Jugo Mobile breaks down his prospect profile below.
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Jared McCain Statistics
| statistics | Average |
| Points | 14.0 |
| Rebounds | 5.0 |
| Assists | 1.9 |
| steal | 1.1 |
| Field goal % | 46.5 |
| % of 3 points | 41.5 |
| Free shot % | 86.8 |
Jared McCain’s Strengths
McCain’s height may not scream “NBA guard” at 6-3, but he has a strong 197-pound frame with solid burst and athleticism.
McCain projects as a combo guard, but plays more of a wing role on this Duke team. As you may have seen in the round of 32, the star of the first year is a sharpshooter. His form is consistent and compact, capable of scoring shots off the catch, screens or off the dribble.
Jared McCain is Duke’s best shooter since ____?pic.twitter.com/rfXQz1ebzn
– Blue Devils (@BlueDevils) March 24, 2024
BENDER: ACC makes sweet statement with four teams still in NCAA
McCain is a confident ball handler who has no problem attacking overly aggressive closeouts. He is a connective playmaker with an elite feel for the game. He always plays within himself, knowing when to shoot or when to swing the ball to find better vision.
Through two NCAA Tournament games, McCain had 63 assists and just 41 turnovers on the season. He could take on more lead guard responsibilities, but he plays alongside senior Jeremy Roach and sophomore Tyrese Proctor.
McCain is a smart, physical defender with quick hands and feet. He is a pest at the point of attack and can control any defensive position. He is also a good rebounder for his size.
Jared McCain’s Weaknesses
McCain isn’t a negative athlete by any means, but he also lacks the explosive athleticism you’d expect to see from an undersized guard. He plays under the basket and doesn’t have much movement in his rebounding game.
Because of this, you won’t see McCain break down defenders in isolation to create his own shot. He’s more of a read-and-react player than someone who can get you a cube at will.
He’s a true combo guard, but his height leads him to be more of a point guard at the next level, while his skill projects more as a shooting guard. He will need more reps playing with the ball in his hands on offense and will be restricted to defending his own position on defense.
Jared McCain NBA Mock Draft Projection
Mock Draft Projection: Selection among the first 20
In my pre-NCAA tournament mock draft, I projected McCain to go 16th overall to the 76ers. However, the Duke freshman certainly helped his case during March Madness. It is not unreasonable to think that he could win the lottery.
Even the best 2024 draft prospects have glaring flaws. Few players will make it into an NBA rotation right away. So don’t be surprised to see teams choosing based on form and need rather than taking the best player approach available.
That could help McCain’s case because he has a clear track record for the type of role he will play in the NBA.
It’s worth noting that there’s no guarantee McCain will declare for the 2024 NBA Draft. The star freshman is one of the most popular players in the country and would surely continue to benefit from name, image and likeness deals. (NIL) of the NCAA if he stayed.
Additionally, Duke will bring in a loaded recruiting class led by No. 1-ranked Cooper Flagg. Given how well McCain would fit into the Blue Devils’ projected lineup next season, there’s a chance he could become a certified lottery pick if he remains in school.
MORE NBA 2024 DRAFT: Top 60 great boards | The best prospects in March Madness
NBA Player Comparison to Jared McCain
Play like: Donte Di Vincenzo
A 3 and D combo guard who can transform into different roles depending on what is needed from his team; That’s exactly what DiVincenzo and McCain have in common.
DiVincenzo weighs 6-4, 203 pounds, which is almost identical to McCain’s 6-3, 173-pound build. DiVincenzo could fit on any roster because of his fluidity on offense as a reliable perimeter shooter, ball handler, and playmaker while playing smart, energetic defense.
McCain’s prospective profile projects the same way at the NBA level. DiVincenzo’s plan to become one of the NBA’s best role players also seems tangible to McCain.
