Top 10 teams: metro area
1. Edina
Loaded and poised to win three consecutive big-school titles for first time since Bloomington Jefferson (1992-94).
2. Lakeville North
Six Division I-committed players make Panthers something special.
3. Hill-Murray
Pioneers boast perhaps the state’s best collection of defensemen.
4. Elk River/Zimmerman
Two future Division I players and the Elite League’s top goal scorer are a good place to start.
5. St. Thomas Academy
Skilled enough to reach the Class 2A state tournament.
6. Eden Prairie
Young, talented team should provide coach Lee Smith’s 400th victory and then some.
7. Wayzata
Defensive-minded system works, but more scoring needed for a deep run.
8. Benilde-St. Margaret’s
Should score a lot but better defense and goaltending are neded. 9. Maple Grove
No star players but solid throughout the lineup, especially in goal.
10. Blaine
New coach hopes to instill more mental toughness into a talented team.
DAVID La VAQUE