Michigan State freshman Russell Byrd is waiting for a gap in the bone of his surgically repaired foot to close so he can begin practicing with his Spartan teammates sometime this season.
Byrd called it “frustrating” but also said doctors are sure it will close soon — and that he won’t need another surgery. In the meantime, he can start taking jumpers Saturday. He’ll have another X-ray next week, and so on until doctors see what they need to see to allow Byrd to start practicing.
Coach Tom Izzo previously stated it might not be worth it to activate Byrd even if he’s healthy by Christmas, which it looks like he won’t be. However, MSU has struggled so far this season under the duress of a tough early schedule. They’ve fallen from the top 10 in the polls and a return by Byrd to the team might be the kind of boost the team needs heading into the Big Ten schedule.