UPDATE: EAST LANSING, MI - The Spartans said goodbye to one of it's most dominant leaders in Draymond Green last season, but this year there are a few names who are looking to fill his shoes.
Also with the arrival of freshman stars like Gary Harris, the team could be spouting a fountain of youth if the team meshes well. It will have to look to younger players like sophomore Branden Dawson to flex the team's muscles, and so far, he's looking pretty reliable based on what he's shown in the pre-season.
The expectations, however, have yet to be determined as State enters the season ranked behind Indiana, Ohio State and Michigan.
Still Sparty is no stranger to playing the underdog, and one could make an argument that this is the way Head Coach Tom Izzo likes it.
Only time will tell, but number 14 Michigan State will take on Connecticut for their opening game on November 9 in the Armed Forces Classic being played in Germany.

ORIGINAL STORY: EAST LANSING, MI - The Spartans said goodbye to one of it's most dominant leaders in Draymond Green last season, but this year there are a few names who are looking to fill his shoes.