By Patrick Hayes

Michigan State is tasked with replacing a player in Draymond Green who was not only one of the most respected leaders in the Tom Izzo era, but a significant portion of the team’s offensive identity and one of the best rebounders in the country. At MSU’s Media Day this week, many scenarios were discussed about which players would replace the on-court production and who would fill the leadership void.

Michigan State basketball will certainly look different this season, but the good news is there is plenty of intriguing talent on the roster that could show significant growth this season. From Steve Grinczel of MSU’s athletics website:

For a quick minute, Tim Bograkos took off his young alumni coordinator for the MSU Alumni Association hat and was back in the No. 30 he wore as a hard-nosed Spartans guard from 2000-05.

“He came to practice last Friday,” Izzo said during Michigan State’s media day at the Breslin Center Tuesday. “And Timmy’s sitting there and he’s half the old school and half the new school. He was here when those practices looked like wars and he’s been here when they’ve been like prom dancing.

“And he said to me, `Hey Coach, looks like old-time practices are back, huh?’ And I looked back at him and said, `Hey Tim, that’s the best compliment you could give me.’ Our guys are gonna practice hard, our guys are gonna play hard, our guys are going to appreciate this university and the things in it and what they’ve got.

“That’s why I feel better. That’s why I’m more ready to go. I’m at peace with that and ready to have a great year.”

And, if you’re interested in the monster roundup post I did of MSU media day coverage, head over to The Only Colors to check it out.

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