Ready for prime time

Keep an eye on these three once the season tips off:

Derek Raivio, G: Bigger things were expected last season, but the senior guard’s numbers slipped in the wake of some physical and personal problems. There will be no deferring to Adam Morrison this year, so look for Raivio to regain his confidence.

Josh Heytvelt, F: The Zags desperately need the oft-injured sophomore forward to stay healthy and become a force inside. Heytvelt’s physical ability is unquestioned. Now its simply a matter of him proving he’s mentally ready for a lead role.

Sean Mallon, F: There is no one on the roster more reliable than Mallon, who brings great effort and a calming influence. The Bulldogs need the fifth-year senior from Ferris High School to shed his role-player image and become a first-line scoring option.