Elliot Williams, who started 12 games as a freshman, will transfer from Duke in order to be closer to home sources confirmed to TDD.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Elliot and his family,” said head coach Mike Krzyzewski. ““We fully support him in his efforts to be closer to them during this trying time. He is a good young man with an opportunity to become an outstanding player. We wish him well as he determines his future. He will always be a part of our program and we will always be in his corner.”
The loss of Williams leaves Krzyzewski's team with just two guards - Jon Scheyer and Nolan Smith. Neither of which is a true point guard. After that, Duke will have no returning rotational player shorter than Lance Thomas at 6'8.
One option could have been fifth year senior Martynas Pocius, but he has already signed with an agent and will be playing professionally overseas next season. However, another fifth year senior - walkon Jordan Davidson - will return next season to provide additional backcourt manpower.
Before the Williams announcement Duke was expecting rising junior Kyle Singler to play exclusively on the wing. The departure of Williams will likely open up time for incoming freshman combo forward Ryan Kelly to also play more on the wing.
In addition it's likely that Duke will look to add six players in the class of 2010.