As Michigan State gears up for the rest of the season, the backcourt situation is becoming a hot topic. With Denham Wojcik sidelined by a shoulder injury during the Spartans' decisive win over UCLA, head coach Tom Izzo assured fans it wasn't serious. Still, this highlights a precarious depth issue for the team.
Wojcik typically provides valuable minutes to give Jeremy Fears a breather, but his limited play against UCLA and the visible shoulder wrap during the post-game handshake line raised concerns. With Fears logging 30-35 minutes per game, the Spartans are leaning heavily on a thin backcourt.
Currently, Kur Teng, Jordan Scott, and Trey Fort are stepping up to support Fears. While these players bring talent to the floor, they aren't primary ball-handlers, which could spell trouble if Fears faces fatigue, injury, or foul trouble. The Spartans are already missing Divine Ugochukwu, who suffered a season-ending foot injury against Minnesota, further depleting their options.
Looking ahead, the arrival of Carlos Medlock and Jasiah Jervis next season promises to bolster the lineup, but the immediate focus is on navigating the current challenges. Wojcik's presence, despite his defensive shortcomings, is crucial for maintaining stability when Fears needs a break. His ability to handle the ball and minimize turnovers is a key asset.
The hope is that Wojcik's absence was precautionary and not a sign of a more severe issue. If not, Michigan State might need to consider giving Nick Sanders a more significant role. As the Spartans aim for a deep run, keeping their backcourt healthy and effective will be essential.