The No. 2 Michigan State Spartans have started off (4-1) with it's only loss coming to the Connecticut Huskies on a neutral court. However, their (4-1) record could easily be (2-3).
The No. 2 touted team in the nation has not lived up to the preseason hype, despite the depth, leadership, and future Hall of Fame coach Tom Izzo pacing the sidelines.
After opening the season with a blowout performance against Eastern Michigan 96-66, the Spartans have been tested. In the next four games the Spartans allowed 70-plus to opponents, and their lack of containing teams on the offensive glass became evident.
All four of the Spartans opponents had a successful night on the offensive glass; South Carolina (13), Chaminade (10) UConn (18) and Washington (7).
Not to mention, the Spartans as a team are struggling from the foul line. As a team, the Spartans are shooting 64 percent from the charity stripe, while turning the ball over 16 times per game.
Now, combine the flaws and that could spell disaster for any team, but Michigan State has been able to commend their mistakes thanks to a returning junior. Draymond Green has become Michigan State's most consistent player, and is the key piece to the puzzle for the Spartans.
He is the scoring leader averaging 15.5 points, rebounding leader with 10.5 rebounds, and assist leader acquiring 4.5 assist per game. Need I remind you, Green comes off the bench for the Spartans.
Not to mention, shooting 60 percent from the field, and three. Green has been in double-figures for the Spartans in every game, while stepping up in big time games.
Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo has said Green has made great strides to become a wing threat. He worked on both his jump shot, and ball handling skills, which flows very well on the court.
In their last game against the Huskies Green came up with a steal, and came up with an assist after watching Kalin Lucas make the layup that gave the Spartans their second lead of the second half.
Green also came up big in the second half against Chaminade after being tied at half. Green scored five points, but grabbed seven rebounds, and threw two key assist that helped open the game.
In their only loss on the season, Green came away with 22 points, 12 rebounds five assist and three blocks, but watched his desperation attempt bounce off the backboard.
However, thanks to his performance, he was able to keep the Spartans in the game. His ability to attack the offensive glass in the second half was beneficial for the Spartans. However, the free-throws is what ultimately loss the game for Michigan State.
Green failed to convert at the line, and watched Kemba Walker and UConn walk off the court winners.
Nonetheless, when you think of the Spartans, Lucas or Izzo might come to mind. However, this year, Green should be the name most noted. He has been consistent throughout the first five games, and is one of the reason why the Spartans were able to pull away from many upset bids.
For more CoHoops news follow us on Twitter (@Collegiate_Hoop) or subscribe via email
