Michigan State Basketall: Key rotation players entering 2019-20 season

The Glue Players

Name: Thomas Kithier

Year: Sophomore

Position: Power Forward

Projected 10th Man

Kithier contributed more than expected after having to sit out his senior year of high school due to transfer rules and regulations in the state of Michigan.  He was considered the less unheralded recruit from the five man 2018 recruiting class for the Spartans. He somewhat like Henry, played with more confidence and composer than expected for a true freshmen who did not play his senior year in high school.

However, how much better can Kithier get? Could he become the next Goran Suton who played well for Michigan State over a decade ago or will be end up more like former Spartan Adam Ballinger who was dependable and reliable but never really made a major impact? Time will tell and Kithier needs to get the benefit of the doubt but Spartan fans shouldn’t expect a major impact from him next season.

Name: Malik Hall

Year: Freshmen

Position: Power Forward/Small Forward

Projected 11th Man

Hall can easily be the next Kenny Goins but with a higher ceiling. He like Goins, is versatile where as he can play either the 3 or 4 spot. Due to need, you can expect him to play power forward as a true freshmen and then play more small forward his sophomore year. He may not be the strongest and biggest player but against teams not play more of a small ball system, you can easily see Hall playing up to 10 minutes in those games. He was recruited for a reason and he can turn in to the next Raymar Morgan or Durrell Summers for the green and white.  He has a bright future and will more than likely be a starter by his junior year.

Name: Foster Loyer

Year: Sophomore

Position: Point Guard

Projected 12th Man

Could Loyer red-shirt or even transfer due to lack of playing time? The problem with social media and sports message boards is that everyone has a theory or some inside information. It is completely unfair to the student-athlete and what ever Loyer decides to do should be respected by fans and alums alike. If as expected he plays and does not red-shirt, minutes may be hard to come by unless Michigan State has a string of injuries.

In his defense, he is a better three-point shooter than many may think and he can handle the ball as a capable back up to Winston if need be. He like Bingham needs to get bulkier and stronger and work on his defense. However, Izzo and him will have a plan for this off-season.