Michigan State basketball: 5 questions the Spartans must answer in 2020

1. Michigan State basketball: How will the Spartans replace Cassius Winston?

The biggest question Michigan State basketball has to solve this season is how to replace Winston. One of the best point guards the school has ever seen, Winston will leave big shoes to fill going forward.

In terms of simply manning the position, the Spartans have a few options. Sophomore Rocket Watts got into the lineup late last season playing off the ball, but he is a natural point guard who could re-assume that role this season.

Hoggard could also challenge for time as a freshman while Mane would likely supplant both of them if he commits to the Spartans. Finding a functional point guard shouldn’t be a challenge for Izzo, but replacing Winston’s leadership will be much more difficult.

Winston essentially dictated the entire offense, which won’t be easy for a freshman or sophomore to do on their own. The other players also looked to Winston to make the big play or drain a clutch shot in crunch time, a role others will have to step into.

The return of Langford would certainly help in that category while Tillman or Henry could also step into that void. It will take a committee approach to fill Winston’s various roles, so finding out which guys are going to do that will be the biggest question Michigan State basketball has to answer in 2020.

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