Wake Forest vs. Duke: Why Betting Cooper Flagg Under 20 Points is a Smart Play

The ACC showdown between Wake Forest and Duke is set to be a high-stakes battle, with both teams looking to solidify their positions as the regular season nears its end. With star talent on both sides, this matchup has plenty of intrigue for fans and bettors alike. One of the most interesting betting angles in this game is Cooper Flagg’s point total, and why taking the under on 20 points is a strong play.

Projected Lineups

Wake Forest

  • PG: T. Johnson
  • SG: C. Hildreth
  • SF: H. Sallis
  • PF: T. Spillers
  • C: Efton Reid

Injuries:

  • F M. Hagedorn – Out for Season (OFS)
  • F M. Marion – Out for Season (OFS)
  • F V. Ricchiuti – Out for Season (OFS)
  • G W. Underwood – Out for Season (OFS)

Duke

  • PG: Sion James
  • SG: T. Proctor (GTD)
  • SF: Kon Knueppel
  • PF: Cooper Flagg
  • C: K. Maluach

Injuries:

  • G T. Proctor – Game-Time Decision (GTD)
  • F Maliq Brown – Out

Why Cooper Flagg Under 20 Points is a Good Bet

Wake Forest’s Physical Defense

Wake Forest has a strong defensive frontcourt with T. Spillers and Efton Reid, both of whom have the size and length to make things difficult for Flagg. Expect Wake to throw multiple defenders at him and contest his shots aggressively.

Limited Shot Opportunities

Flagg is a versatile player but isn’t always the primary scorer in Duke’s offense. With players like Knueppel and Maluach also needing touches, he may not get the volume necessary to surpass 20 points. If Tyrese Proctor plays, he could take on more of the scoring load, further reducing Flagg’s chances of hitting the over.

Potential Foul Trouble

With Wake Forest likely playing a physical brand of defense, there’s a chance Flagg could find himself in foul trouble, limiting his minutes. This would naturally reduce his scoring opportunities and make the under an even safer bet.

Duke’s Game Plan

Duke’s offense isn’t built around one player dominating the scoring, and they may look to exploit matchups elsewhere if Wake focuses on stopping Flagg. If Wake Forest succeeds in forcing Duke into a perimeter-heavy game, it could further limit Flagg’s production in the paint.

Betting Recommendation

Given Wake Forest’s physical defense, Duke’s balanced offensive approach, and the potential for limited shot attempts, Cooper Flagg going under 20 points is a strong betting play. Unless he has an exceptionally efficient night, the matchup suggests he will struggle to surpass this number.

Final Prediction: Duke wins, but Flagg scores under 20 points.