Badgers catch a break as Illini announces key injury ahead of Big Ten matchup

The Wisconsin Badgers take on the Fighting Illini of Illinois tomorrow in an important rematch for the Badgers. They lost earlier this year against the Illini when the Badgers were on the road, but now they get to face off against them at home in the Kohl Center. It's an important matchup for both teams as Wisconsin is making a push for the Big Ten title and needs a 2-0 week, while the Illini are scrambling to stay relevant in both the Big Ten and the NCAA Tournament pictures.

Illinois will now have to do it without Morez Johnson Jr. one of the key big-men both for the Ilini scoring and rebounding.

Morez Johnson Jr. is out indefinitely ahead of important matchup with the Wisconsin Badgers

Johnson averages 7.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per game this season. He also has 29 blocks on the season and is an absolute defensive force for Illinois. That is exactly how he got injured in the last game against Michigan State. He may have had one of the most impressive blocks in college basketball this season, however, he came down very hard on his hand and caused his wrist to break. Watch the replay:

While this is a big blow for the Illini, they basically beat Wisconsin without Johnson last time. He only played 13 minutes and went 0-3 from the floor. He didn't have any points but did pull down four rebounds. If Wisconsin is to beat Illinois this time around, it won't be because Johnson isn't on the floor, as Illinois did it basically without him last time.

The Badgers seem to be getting hot at the right time, while Illinois has been up and down all season. Most recently losing to Michigan State 79-65 in a night that was frustrating for Illini fans and players.