Boys' hockey preview: Top 10 metro area teams

1. Edina

Skilled throughout the lineup, strong and senior-laden. The Hornets have the look of a champion in waiting. Off to a 2-0 start.

2. Benilde-St. Margaret's

Unparalleled firepower, but questions about defense and goaltending leave defending Class 2A champion with more to prove than Edina.

3. Eden Prairie

Big and strong like Edina. Relying on a tremendously talented junior class and hoping goaltending stays consistent.

4. Minnetonka

5. Hill-Murray

Class 2A runner-up is sound between the pipes and on the blue line. Needs capable scorers to produce.

6. Burnsville

Another team resting its fortunes on the Class of 2014. Blaze players make up in skating what they lack in size.

7. St. Thomas Academy (1A)

8. Blaine

Best-skating Bengals team in Dave Aus' 13 years as coach. Hungry after embarrassing section final loss.

9. Andover

Reached the section final last season and returns virtually everyone, including goaltender Chase Perry.

10. Eagan