3 bold predictions for Michigan State basketball vs. Northwestern

Riding a three-game losing streak, Michigan State basketball only has two more regular-season opportunities to right the ship before postseason play (potentially) begins.

The Spartans will play host to Northwestern on Wednesday night in one of those games that could lock in an NCAA Tournament bid. Michigan State is 17-12 and it has lost three straight games and two of those should have been wins. Heck, there were even a couple of instances on Saturday night against Purdue that looked like the Spartans were the better team.

Now they'll have to overcome Northwestern and Boo Buie who have had their number over the past few years. Can they end the home schedule on a high note?

Let's dive into my bold predictions for the matchup.

3. Malik Hall records a double-double

In the past five games, Malik Hall has recorded two double-doubles. He has been one of the best players on the team this season and arguably the most consistent. But he remembers what happened the first time these two teams matched up back on Jan. 7. Heck, we all do.

If you don't remember, it was the worst game of Malik's season -- and potentially his career -- as he played 25 minutes and scored 0 points with 0 rebounds and 0 assists. He did record some stats, though -- two turnovers and a foul. It was just a horrendous performance after posting 24 points the game before.

Now, after a somewhat quiet game against Purdue, he's going to rebound in a big way and make everyone forget what happened the first time he faced Northwestern this year.

Not only will Hall have a double-double (his third in six games), but he'll score 20 points.