Learning to live without varsity mainstay Donavon Dempsey (68 points in 2016) will be a process for Lakeville South, but the Cougars return numerous pieces from last season's squad that outscored its first two Section 1 playoff opponents 37-15 en route to the title match. 

One of those unlucky teams that lined up opposite of Lakeville South was Northfield. The Raiders will open the season with another effort to contain Lakeville South standouts: junior midfielder David Byers (27-16-43 in 2016), senior attacker Burk Substad (25 goals) and defensive stalwart Shane Corcoran. 

Back for Northfield is senior midfielder Chase Marlenee (34-11-45) and senior attacker Griffin Loecher (19-18-37). Loecher is coming off a hockey season which saw him guide the Raiders to their first state tournament appearance.

Can the Cougars take the next step without Dempsey? Can Loecher bring some of his ice magic to the lacrosse field? 

We'll find out when the Top Game of the Week takes place on Thursday. 

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