Northern Lakes League (NLL) Preview

<p>Not a single First Team All-NLL player returns in 2019-20. </p> <p>The Northview team that went undefeated in the regular season brings back just two contributors.</p> <p>Anthony Wayne, last year's second place finisher, lost their top two guys from a year ago. </p> <p>There are unknowns all over the place.</p> <p>Here, we will offer our predictions on how one of the top leagues in the Toledo-area will shake out. But, shoot, it's wide open this season — and that's maybe our most confident prediction.</p> <h5><span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>First Team</strong></span></h5> <h6><strong><a href="https://prephoops.com/player/zachary-szul/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Zachary Szul</a> (2020) | 6-3 PG | Anthony Wayne</strong></h6> <p>Szul is the resounding reason we've picked Anthony Wayne to finish second in the conference. He will be highlighted, bolded, and circled on scouting reports all season by AW opponents. Collapses the defenses as a slasher. Very productive in the paint — draws fouls, finishes, and makes smart kick-outs to shooters. Versatile defender. </p> <h6><strong><a href="https://prephoops.com/player/jackson-sizemore/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jackson Sizemore</a> (2020) | 6-8 C | Perrysburg</strong></h6> <p>The only returning Second Team All-NLL player, Sizemore and the Jackets appeared poised to win most of their conference games this season. His role is vital. Sizemore is an elite communicator on the back-end of a defense. He's their go-to scorer with his post moves and spot-up shooting ability that will pull away opposing fives. Good rebounder and screener. Experienced. </p> <h6><strong>David Walker (2020) | 6-0 G | Maumee</strong></h6> <p>Averaging 12.6 points per game as a junior, Walker is the NLL's top returning scorer. Pure shot-creator who likes to attack the rim with quickness. Finishes in traffic. Expect Maumee's offense to be focused on creating opportunity for Walker.</p> <h6><strong><a href="https://prephoops.com/player/sean-craig/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sean Craig</a> (2022) | 6-5 PF | Northview</strong></h6> <p>The lone returning starter from last year's dominate team, Craig's responsibility for the Wildcats has probably tripled. Extremely skilled face-up forward who can pass, attack, or shoot from the triple threat. Will force the league's opposing bigs to defend in space. Guards multiple positions. Rebounds outside of his area.  </p> <h6><strong><a href="https://prephoops.com/player/deon-key/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Deon Key</a> (2020) | 6-5 C | Holland Springfield</strong></h6> <p>Low-post specialist with rebounding ability and a soft touch. Key is very tough to keep away from the glass and he creates second chance points often. One of the most physically imposing players in the area. Key could jump from 8.4 rebounds as a junior into double-digits this season.</p> <h5><span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>Second Team</strong></span></h5> <h6><strong>Grant Hartnett (2020) | 5-9 PG | Northview</strong></h6> <p>After waiting in the wings behind four-year starter Alek West — one of the best players to come out of Northview all decade — Hartnett is very equipped to hit the ground running as their starting point guard. Provides perimeter scoring while being able to facilitate offense, too. Handles the ball with pace. Shoots it well. Will take care of the ball. </p> <h6><strong>Drew Paule (2020) | 5-10 G | Perrysburg</strong></h6> <p>Paule is simultaneously one of the least flashy and most active players in the area. His production is often a byproduct of tempo and energy. Active defender who makes ball-handlers uncomfortable. Knocks down open shots and can finish. Pretty athletic. Returning starter. </p> <h6><strong><a href="https://prephoops.com/player/garret-white/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Garret White</a> (2020) | 6-8 C | Maumee</strong></h6> <p>Big body with impressive feet and burst off the floor. White proved to be a productive rebounder at 6.0 per game last year — expect that number to go way up this season, too, with Sam LaChapelle no longer grabbing 7.5 a game. Scores on put-backs and other short-range opportunities. Provides rim protection. </p> <h6><strong><a href="https://prephoops.com/player/aj-jump/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AJ Jump</a> (2022) | 6-6 C | Southview</strong></h6> <p>A Toledo St. John's transfer, the promising sophomore is big enough to defend inside while being a good outside shooter. Stretches the floor on pick-and-pops. Shows good touch over the left shoulder on post moves. </p> <h6><strong>Grant Pahl (2021) | 6-2 SG | Southview</strong></h6> <p>Outside shooting specialist who will space the floor. Frequently gets hot from deep and is money with his feet set. Pahl flashes the ability to attack closeouts and finish in the paint. Went for 10.4 points per game as a sophomore. </p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>Honorable Mention:</strong></span> Denzel Stuart (S'Field), Bo Bucher (S'Field), Harrison Hossler (P'burg), Zach Miller (P'burg)</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h5><span style="text-decoration: underline"><strong>Predicted Finish:</strong></span></h5> <p>1. Perrysburg — Confidence should be high after their postseason run that included upsets over Northview and Toledo St. John's. They have a selfless star in Sizemore to go with a group of high-motor, disciplined, and experienced role players. As always, the Jackets will be physical, too. </p> <p>2. Anthony Wayne — The Generals can surround Szul with shooters. They should knock-down the 3 better than any team in the conference while being able to throw speedy defenders at opponents. Lacking size, whereas every other team in the top six has one productive 6-foot-5 or larger post.</p> <p>3. Northview — If Craig and Hartnett are able to take a major leap, they could compete for the no. 2 spot. Depth, though, is very concerning. </p> <p>4. Southview — One year away from being very intriguing. This year, we expect the Cougars to come on strong in the second half of the season as their new pieces gel at the varsity level. </p> <p>5. Springfield — The separation between Springfield and Anthony Wayne isn't siome wide gulf. They're in contention for a top two finish. </p> <p>6. Maumee</p> <p>7. Bowling Green</p> <p>8. Napoleon</p>