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Michigan State Basketball: 10 bold predictions for 2016-17 season

By Connor Muldowney

Mar 7, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans coach Tom Izzo watches his team warm up before the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Assembly Hall. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans coach Tom Izzo watches his team warm up before the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Assembly Hall. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 26, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds All American guard Joshua Langford (25) poses for photos on portrait day at the Marriott Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds All American guard Joshua Langford (25) poses for photos on portrait day at the Marriott Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Josh Langford evolves into best all-around player

On a team that features Cassius Winston, Nick Ward, Eron Harris and Miles Bridges, it’s interesting to think that Josh Langford might be the best of the bunch. No, I’m not talking best offensive threat as that will likely go to Bridges, but the best all-around player.

There’s chatter around the Spartans’ camp that Langford has one of the highest basketball IQs on the team and he could be the team’s best performer. He can pass, shoot, drive to the basket, defend, rebound well for a guard and make smart hustle plays. This kid could be the most underrated in the 2016 class.

The McDonald’s All-American doesn’t receive the same amount of hype as Bridges, but he definitely has a skill set that is intriguing. He isn’t going to drop jaws with alley-oop dunks every night, but he’s going to play smart ball and get the job done without as much praise.

Need someone to defend the perimeter if Harris is out or just struggling? Langford will be that guy. He could evolve into a Gary Harris type of player who can knock down big shots as well as play defense.

Watching this kid on both sides of the floor will provide fans with a pleasant surprise. It will be hard to keep him around for multiple seasons.

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