Outlook: If Deerfield guard Ryan Hogan bounces back fully from last year’s knee injury, Deerfield might run away on Hogan’s legs and hide. Even at 90 percent, he’s probably the conference’s best talent. Glenbrook North will miss the graduated Billy Donlon but is still a threat. Highland Park returns four starters from a 16-11 team.
Top players: Maine West F Lucas Johnson, 6-4, soph.; Maine South F Matt Hermes, 6-3, sr.; Highland Park G Rob Marks, 6-3, sr., F John Pure, 6-3, sr.; Deerfield G Hogan, 6-3, jr., F Mike Casey, 6-5, sr.; Glenbrook North C Joe Hein, 6-7, sr., G Gabe Frank, 6-4, sr.
Quotable: “Lucas Johnson is one of the best sophomores around,” said Maine West coach Jim Sullivan. “He’s special.”
Key games: Highland Park at Deerfield, Jan. 12; Glenbrook North at Deerfield, Feb. 2.
Defending champion: Glenbrook North
Predicted finish: Deerfield, Highland Park, Glenbrook North, Maine West, Maine South, Niles North
