Michigan State Basketball: It’s time to buy all the stock in Jaden Akins

With Max Christie deciding to head to the NBA, it’s time to officially buy all the stock in Michigan State basketball sophomore Jaden Akins.

On Monday afternoon, Max Christie’s long-awaited decision was made public as the former five-star freshman decided to remain in the NBA draft and hire an agent, leaving Michigan State basketball after one up-and-down season.

Christie’s departure hurts the outlook on the wing for next season, but there’s one player who can more than make up for that lost production: Jaden Akins.

Akins, a fellow freshman, saw action in 36 games in 2021-22 and averaged just under 15 minutes per outing. He got plenty of experience in a solid guard rotation and was able to showcase his athleticism while providing a heavy dose of defense.

Never was this more on display than against one of the best teams in the country in the Battle 4 Atlantis as Michigan State played Baylor tightly for about 30 minutes.

Akins was all over the floor, making plays at the rim, hitting jumpers, and playing tight defense. He also rebounded well, crashing the glass amongst a sea of athletic bigs from Baylor.

On the season, Akins averaged just 3.4 points and 2.4 rebounds but he shot nearly 40 percent from the field and 38 percent from 3-point range. He has the ability to score from all three levels and he should be able to bring that to the starting lineup next season, replacing Christie.

If you’re looking for Christie’s replacement and a kid who might just be the most talented player on the roster who will take a massive jump in 2022-23, look no further than Akins.

Buy stock now and jump on that bandwagon before it’s too late.