Move over, Cooper Flagg — you’re not the only Blue Devil making NBA teams drool.
In a shocking twist that’s starting to ripple through NBA scouting circles, another Duke star is generating serious buzz as a potential top-5 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. While all eyes have been glued to Flagg’s meteoric rise, this other Blue Devil has been making noise in his own way — and insiders say he’s no longer flying under the radar.
Meet Khaman Maluach — the 7’2″ South Sudanese sensation who’s about to explode onto everyone’s big board.
THE HYPE IS REAL — AND IT’S GROWING FAST
Let’s get this straight: Cooper Flagg is a generational talent. He’s the projected No. 1 pick, the face of Duke’s stacked roster, and already has NBA GMs clearing cap space for him.
But while Flagg dominates headlines, Khaman Maluach is dominating paint, perimeter, and everything in between.
Just 18 years old, Maluach has the size of Rudy Gobert, the instincts of Jaren Jackson Jr., and flashes of offensive shot-making that remind some of a young Chris Bosh — but taller. Much taller.
Scouts who’ve seen him at practice say the kid is unguardable in the pick-and-roll and can already defend 1 through 5. Oh — and did we mention he’s knocking down three-pointers like it’s nothing?
FROM UNKNOWN TO UNDENIABLE
Six months ago, Maluach wasn’t even on the average fan’s radar. Now?
He’s getting private looks from NBA teams, and multiple scouts are now saying he’s a lock for the lottery — and might even crash the top 5 if his freshman season at Duke goes according to plan.
One anonymous NBA exec told us:
“Everyone’s talking about Flagg, and rightfully so. But Maluach is a freak of nature. If he figures out his offensive rhythm this season, he’s going to skyrocket.”
WHY MALUACH’S DRAFT STOCK IS SURGING
Here’s why Maluach is making serious noise with NBA decision-makers:
1. Elite Size and Length
At 7’2″ with a 7’8″ wingspan, he’s already built like an NBA center — but moves like a small forward. He covers an absurd amount of ground in two steps, and blocks shots from angles most players can’t even reach.
2. Modern Skillset
Forget traditional big man limitations. Maluach can handle the ball, shoot the three, and is already a natural passer out of the post. Think Victor Wembanyama lite — with a stronger frame.
3. Defensive Versatility
He doesn’t just protect the rim — he shuts down entire offensive schemes. Maluach can hedge on guards, recover to the paint, and switch onto wings without missing a beat. He’s basically a human cheat code on defense.
SCOUTS SAY: “DON’T BE SHOCKED IF HE OUTSHINES FLAGG”
Yes, you read that right.
A small but growing group of scouts believe Khaman Maluach could have a better freshman season than Cooper Flagg — especially if Flagg faces double-teams or injury setbacks.
While Flagg enters the year with sky-high expectations, Maluach enters with nothing to lose — and everything to prove.
That pressure-free environment could be the perfect storm for Maluach to thrive and put up jaw-dropping numbers, especially if Duke unleashes him as a stretch-five with offensive freedom.
A ONE-TWO PUNCH THAT COULD DOMINATE COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Make no mistake — Duke’s duo of Flagg and Maluach might be the most terrifying freshman combo college basketball has seen in over a decade.
Think Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett.
Think Anthony Davis and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.
Now imagine taller, more versatile versions — with a nastier edge on defense.
If Maluach keeps up his current pace, it won’t just be Flagg going in the top 5.
It could be two Duke players hearing their names called in the first five picks.
NBA TEAMS ARE WATCHING CLOSELY
Multiple league sources confirm that at least five NBA teams are tracking Maluach as closely as they’re watching Cooper Flagg.
Why?
Because in a draft that’s deep but doesn’t yet have 5 clear franchise-changers, Maluach’s ceiling might be higher than anyone’s not named Flagg.
We’re talking elite rim protection, offensive stretch potential, and the kind of two-way dominance that every NBA team covets.
COULD MALUACH LEAPFROG FLAGG?
This may sound wild now, but if Maluach comes out of the gate putting up double-doubles, hitting corner threes, and locking down the paint, it’s not impossible that he becomes the more NBA-ready prospect.
Flagg may still go No. 1 due to star power and polish, but if Maluach shows he can anchor a defense and space the floor, don’t be shocked if a team in the top 3 pulls the trigger early.
In fact, one GM was overheard saying:
“If we end up with the No. 2 pick and Flagg is gone… we’re taking Maluach.”
FINAL TAKE: THIS DRAFT CLASS MIGHT BELONG TO DUKE
Duke fans, get ready. You’re not just watching one superstar in the making — you’re watching a double-pronged nuclear weapon in Flagg and Maluach.
And NBA fans?
You better learn to pronounce “Maluach” fast.
Because come draft night, he’s not just going to shake Adam Silver’s hand…
He might just break the Top 5 — and break the internet in the process.
Stay tuned — because the Khaman Maluach takeover is coming.
And if you blink, you’ll miss the BOOM.
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