Red-hot Nick Martinelli guides Northwestern against Eastern Illinois

(Photo credit: David Banks-Imagn Images)
Nick Martinelli figured prominently into Northwestern's outlook before the season.

With running mate Brooks Barnhizer still working through a foot injury, however, Martinelli is embracing the opportunity to showcase his impact early.

When Eastern Illinois visits Northwestern on Friday in Evanston, Ill., Martinelli will enter with a 28.3 ppg average in three games on 73.8 percent