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Duke’s Jon Scheyer is still playing at a high level this season, but the Blue Devils should be concerned about his minutes, NBCSports.com contributor Ken Davis writes.

Two weeks ago Scheyer was averaging 19.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, shooting 45.1 percent from the field, 90.3 percent from the line and 39.5 from 3-point range. His assist-to-turnover ratio was the best in the nation at 4.8. People were talking about him as a national player of the year candidate.

Since Jan. 13, Scheyer has had a 9-point game against Wake Forest and an 11-point game against Clemson, his lowest since scoring 10 against Wisconsin. His scoring average is down to 18.8 and his assist-to-turnover ratio has fallen to 3.42 (now fourth in the nation). His shooting averages have dropped to 43.8, 89.9 and 39.1. Small drops maybe, but the concern is his minutes played. Scheyer averages 36.1 minutes, the most since his freshman season. He has averaged 39 minutes the past three games.

Singler, averaging 16.1 points, is playing 34.8 minutes and his shooting averages are all down from last season. He has played 40 minutes five times this season. Nolan Smith, averaging 18.1 points, is averaging 34.5 minutes — way up from 21.6 last season. How much can Coach K get from these performers if they are worn down heading into postseason play?

Then there’s the annual problem upfront. Center Brian Zoubek works hard and contributes in ways that don’t show up in the box score. But his numbers are 5.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. The Plumlee brothers, Miles and Mason, have increased their minutes and production, but they must do more.

Duke covers for a lack of size and athleticism by playing outstanding defense and hitting free throws. But eventually the size and depth problems will catch up with the Blue Devils.

Duke fans hate hearing this, but the Blue Devils haven’t won more than two games in the NCAA Tournament since 2004. And drawing a No. 1 or No. 2 seeds hasn’t helped one bit. The Blue Devils look like a No. 2 seed again this season. But somehow, I feel history is about to repeat itself.

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