Michigan Basketball: 3 players that need breakout seasons in 2019

David DeJulius

No matter who ends up starting, Michigan basketball is going to need quality depth this season and that means guys like DeJulius need to step up.

The 6-foot-1 point guard saw action in 25 games and showed some flashes but now it’s time for him to take the next step in his development too.

While I believe Johns would be a great fit in the starting lineup, DeJulius is another guy that makes sense. He’s not quite the defender Eli Brooks is, at least from what we have seen, but he has an opportunity to improve in that area.

If he can and if he can become a consistent scorer, he would bring some much-needed stability to the backcourt. DeJulius may not be best playing next to Zavier Simpson, because he is probably at his best with the ball in his hands, however, he was a good 3-point shooter in high school and also has shown a nice ability to get to the hoop.

If he can show himself to be a reliable option on both ends of the floor, there are some serious minutes to be had, even if it’s off the bench. Michigan basketball has had strong six men in Duncan Robinson and Livers the past two years and another stellar option off the bench would be ideal.

And ultimately, if Livers can take a big leap this season, in addition to the growth expected from DeJulius, Johns and even others like Castleton, Brooks and Nunez, this Michigan basketball team could be a force and certainly much better than many around the country are projecting.