No rush on Perth’s Finals Wildcard

It has been 40 days since David Duke Jr. last suited up for the Perth Wildcats, but with Finals assured and the next generation getting it done, John Rillie is content to keep his star import on ice.

Duke Jr. is working his way back from an elbow injury and has returned to full training, but will sit out at least one more game as the Wildcats manage his reintegration.

Rillie expects Duke Jr. to be available before Finals, potentially in a limited capacity as he builds back into game shape.

“We can just bring him along at a nice speed. He shouldn’t come back feeling like he’s got to solve the world’s problems. He can just fit back in with the group,” Rillie said on Thursday.

The form of Elijah Pepper and Ben Henshall gives the Wildcats flexibility, with the team winning seven of their past eight games, despite the absence of Duke Jr. and Jaron Rillie (hamstring).

“My history would show that if you’re doing your job on the court, I’m not a creature of change,” the Perth coach said.

“I’m a creature of habit. Having David Duke back on the roster will give us more flexibility. His defence and his athleticism and all of that stuff will be a welcome return. But I am mindful of how well we are playing as a team right now.”

Perth faces Cairns on Friday night and, while the matchup may appear favourable on paper, the Taipans’ recent improvement suggests it is far from a foregone conclusion.

“They’re (the Taipans) coming out and starting games really well,” Rillie added.

“They’re dangerous in transition and three-point shooting. They can be disruptive defensively when they switch. They’ve certainly got our attention.”

The Wildcats and Taipans from 9.30pm AEDT on Friday night, live on ESPN.