ESPN.com Preseason Power Rankings - College Basketball
12. Michigan State
Much like Ohio State, the Spartans are tasked with replacing their bona fide best player. In Michigan State's case, that player -- forward Draymond Green -- also was the most important locker room leader Tom Izzo has coached in years. From both a production and intangibles perspective, "replacing" Day-Day is a pipe dream. But the Spartans are still in very good shape. Point guard Keith Appling, now a junior, will lead the way; forwards Derrick Nix and Adreian Payne will bruise opponents up front; and Branden Dawson (on track to make a speedy recovery from ACL surgery) and Gary Harris (a top recruit and trendy freshman of the year pick) will provide athleticism on the wing. Izzo's team is deep, talented and experienced, and sure to compete for the Big Ten title yet again. -- Eamonn Brennan
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