Depth-challenged Duke focused on toughness

DURHAM, N.C. - Even with a rash of injured players often dominating the conversation about Duke's basketball team for the first few weeks of the season, there's another identity that's more relevant for coach Mike Krzyzewski in describing the Blue Devils.

"I have tough kids," Krzyzewski said. "I have really tough kids."

That's what the No. 5 Blue Devils have been counting on as they've rung up a 7-1 record. Only six players were used in Tuesday night's victory against Michigan State.

"Playing six guys is never going to be easy," fifth-year senior forward Amile Jefferson said. "But guys have to always be tough."

A deeper bench is likely to be in use Saturday when Duke wraps up a four-game homestand by taking on Maine (2-5) at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

Krzyzewski said with Jefferson and guards Matt Jones and Grayson Allen there are enough veteran players to help the Blue Devils through rough patches.

"They've been in big-time games," Krzyzewski said. "They've had adversity. ... They've earned it. It is not inherited wealth, let's put it that way. It's stuff they've earned."

Playing with grit is something that's endearing in some ways for the Blue Devils.

"We have this inner toughness," Jefferson said. "A toughness of the heart and the spirit more than physical. Our guys have always come ready to play."

Duke owns a five-game winning streak, but Jones said the 78-69 victory against Michigan State was particularly satisfying because the Blue Devils had to dig deep.

"I think we're growing as a team, especially winning that game," he said. "It's definitely a confidence booster. We just have to keep it going."

Jones received rave reviews after the last game from Krzyzewski because of his defense. The effort on the defensive end was needed because Jones ended up with just two points for his first time short of double figures this season.

It became Duke's first game this season without five players in double-digit scoring.