Atlas Lacrosse Club
Ben Rubeor is gone, but Mike Pressler was able to reap the rewards and continue a legacy of strong drafts. Atlas immediately addressed its defense with a pair of premium defenders in the top three.
Cornell’s Gavin Adler became the first defenseman taken first overall since 2001, but the feisty long pole is worthy of that status. He gives the Bulls a genuine top cover defenseman that fits the timeline of the roster.
Maryland star Brett Makar slipped in some mock drafts, but Pressler still took the Terps’ No. 1 with a top three selection. Makar’s pedigree is stellar, and he has the makeup to eventually succeed captain Tucker Durkin when he opts to hang up the cleats.
The additions on defense give Atlas needed depth and will hopefully assist one of the most inconsistent defenses from a year ago.
The Bulls made three more picks in this draft — and in typical Atlas fashion — look like they added more contributors for now and the future. Virginia attackman Xander Dickson is an excellent complementary offensive piece for the Atlas offense. He’ll likely start his career out of the box before, but he’s a perfect heir apparent to Eric Law around the crease.
Pressler also rounded out the rope unit by selecting Loyola’s Payton Rezanka in the third round. The San Diego product was seen as a potential first-round talent heading into the draft, and he’ll join one of the best short-stick groups in the league when he returns from injury.
Atlas rounded out its draft with Maryland midfielder Kyle Long in the fourth round. He’s probably not a future star, but the Terps all-time midfield assist leader brings experience, depth and playmaking to the Bulls midfield.
This is probably my favorite draft class of any team this year. No weakness went truly unaddressed, and the influx of talent should bolster a roster looking to finally break through in the playoffs.
Best Pick: Xander Dickson (Attack), Virginia (2nd Round)
Overall Grade: A+
