AJ Griffin - Shines in first startGriffin closed with 22 points (8-11 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 3-5 FT), four rebounds, one assist and one block across 35 minutes during Wednesday's 76-64 win over Wake Forest.ImpactGriffin more than earned the opportunity to start by reaching double figures in five of his last six games off the bench, averaging 11.7 points and 4.5 rebounds over that span. Even with Coach K unavailable Wednesday due to COVID protocols, Griffin still excelled with a career-best scoring total and the Blue Devils earned a decisive victory. Griffin is a consensus four-star recruit with a body that is physically read for the next level, and his all-around skill set is only beginning to surface. An October knee injury limited his early-season practice time and availability, but he now appears more than ready to take on a larger role while putting on a show for NBA scouts. Considering Jeremy Roach -- who Griffin replaced in the starting five -- scored only five points in the contest, it's certainly possible this alignment is here to stay.
JANUARY 13, 2022•ROTOWIRE