Maliq Brown's absence from Duke basketball's recent home victory over the Incarnate Word Cardinals last Tuesday night raised questions. At the time, although third-year Blue Devil head coach Jon Scheyer stated there was no timetable for his return, the fact that the 6-foot-9, 222-pound junior forward wasn't wearing a boot gave hope.

Evidently, the Signs Were Favorable

Approximately two hours before the tipoff between the No. 5-ranked Duke Blue Devils (8-2, 1-0 ACC) and the visiting George Mason Patriots (7-3, 0-0 Atlantic 10) in Cameron Indoor Stadium at 7 p.m. ET Tuesday (ACC Network), Duke basketball confirmed that Brown is officially "IN" for the contest. This is a significant boost for the team as he has been a key contributor.

Brown's Transfer and Early Performance

Brown transferred to Duke after two years at Syracuse. He has lived up to the expectations that came with his ACC All-Defensive Team selection last season. Through nine appearances as a Blue Devil, he is averaging a team-high 2.1 steals. His presence on the court brings a defensive edge that is crucial for the team.During the second half of the squad's 76-65 road win over the Louisville Cardinals in their ACC opener back on Dec. 8, Brown sustained a toe setback. But now, he is ready to make an impact.

The Impact of Injuries on the Duke Bench

While Brown is back in action, two reserves on the Duke basketball bench are out of commission against the Patriots. Graduate guard and crowd favorite Spencer Hubbard is sidelined due to a tooth-related matter. Graduate guard/forward Cameron Sheffield is out with an illness. These absences will test the depth of the Duke team.However, the team will need to adapt and find ways to compensate for their absence. Duke basketball will need to rely on the remaining players to step up and perform at a high level.Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news as the team continues to navigate through the season.