As touched on in last week’s Five CHSAA AA Predictions piece, Almodovar’s playmaking ability has already made a significant difference in the Scanlan offense. A heady lead guard who plays with impressive pace and vision for his age, Almodovar has shown a natural feel for getting his teammates involved and keeping the offense flowing. His ability to distribute the ball among the handful of capable scorers on the roster gives Scanlan another dimension offensively, allowing others to play to their strengths without having to create everything for themselves. For a team with the talent to emerge as a legitimate title dark horse, having a freshman capable of running the show with that level of maturity could make a major difference.

A true point guard in every sense, Almodovar already displays special passing instincts and an advanced ability to put his teammates in position to score. The freshman routinely connected on long outlet passes and located cutters shortly after crossing half court. He is a capable enough shooter to keep defenses honest but clearly prefers creating for others first. Keep an eye on both Almodovar and Scanlan during what should be a wide-open season in the CHSAA.

Undersized guard who plays with pace, vision, and confidence. He has a quick first step that allows him to turn the corner and create advantages, while his ability to operate off the probe keeps the defense constantly reacting. Comfortable absorbing contact, finishing through traffic, and creating scoring opportunities in tight spaces. A young guard with toughness, creativity, and plenty of fight in his game.

The youngest player on this list, Almodovar’s skill as a creator likely helps him to play significant minutes in his first year. With a great handle, IQ, and vision, his ability to run the show will allow All-CHSAA candidate Akeem McLaren Akeem McLaren 6'2" | PG Monsignor Scanlan | 2028 State NY to shoulder more of the scoring load this season. Scanlan appears to be in line to compete near the top of the NY/Bronx division this season, and Almodovar should play a real role.