Star Tribune Boys' hockey all-metro first team

FIRST TEAM

Jake Begley

Hill-Murray, goalie, senior

One of the three best goaltenders Pioneers coach Bill Lechner said he's seen in 36 years of coaching. Finalist for the Frank Brimsek Award, given to the state's top senior goalie. Went 13-5-3, allowed 1.53 goals per game and stopped 93 percent of shots faced. Undecided on college.

Noah Cates

Stillwater, forward, senior

Skilled and smooth and always a threat to create scoring opportunities. A leader for Stillwater, one of the top teams all season. Recorded 23 goals and 47 assists this winter. Committed to Minnesota-Duluth.

Nick Leivermann

Eden Prairie, defense, senior

Gifted offensive-defenseman emerged as a leader on the Eagles' blue line. Scored the game-winning goal in the section finals among his 11 goals and 27 assists. Committed to Notre Dame.

Ben Meyers

Delano, forward, senior

Mr. Hockey finalist led the Tigers to their first state tournament. Protects the puck, changes gears and can make top defensemen look average. Scored 50 goals and tallied 57 assists. Committed to Maine.

Casey Mittelstadt

Eden Prairie, forward, senior

Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year. Took every team's best shot and kept his place as Minnesota high school's best NHL draft prospect in at least a decade. Mr. Hockey finalist scored 22 goals and added 47 assists. He's averaged three points per game during the Eagles' 15-game win streak heading into the state tournament. Committed to Minnesota.

Nick Perbix

Elk River, defense, senior

Draws comparisons to former Elks standout Paul Martin. Big (6-4, 195 pounds), strong and a tireless competitor. Mr. Hockey finalist posted 12 goals and 35 assists. Committed to St. Cloud State.

David La Vaque