The future of Duke basketball’s NBA hopefuls has taken an intriguing twist as three of the program’s standout players remain unsigned heading into 2027. According to sources, at least one $1.5 million deal has already been tabled, but negotiations are far from settled, leaving fans and analysts eagerly watching how the situation unfolds.
The unsigned trio has been instrumental in Duke’s recent success, providing scoring power, defensive grit, and leadership on and off the court. Yet with their contracts expiring at the end of the 2026 season, the program now faces tough decisions about how to balance its roster and salary commitments.
The challenge is compounded by the looming presence of three frontline players whose contracts also expire beyond 2026. This means management will have to prioritize who stays and who goes, with retention calls that could define the team’s trajectory for years to come. The uncertainty has sparked speculation over whether Duke will be able to keep its core intact or risk losing key contributors to rival programs willing to invest heavily.
Amid the uncertainty, all eyes are on one rising star in particular — a player tipped to become Duke’s next $1 million man. With his breakout performances, raw talent, and ability to influence games at both ends of the floor, he has positioned himself as the program’s future cornerstone. Securing his signature could ease fan concerns and stabilize the team’s plans moving forward.
Still, the clock is ticking. While a $1.5 million offer is on the table, the negotiations highlight the financial juggling act ahead for Duke. For now, the question remains: who will emerge as the program’s long-term star, and who will be forced to move on?