When one thinks of the upcoming season for the Halifax Raiders, one can only feel optimistic. The rookie stuffed team that just missed the playoffs last season is now full of veteran presence which includes the number one and two picks of the most resent SHL draft. Eleven of the now-seasoned Raiders were taken in the first three rounds of that draft, four in the first round alone. This incredibly active and ambitious class of skaters have improved tremendously since making their debut in the SMJHL. In addition to a strong class of skaters returning, Halifax also had the first overall pick of this most recent SMJHL draft and used it to draft Rainbow Dash. Dash is joined by fellow first round pick Ray Bork and ninth overall pick Michael Choybuk. The Raiders enjoy a large amount of young players that have seen substantive ice time and new depth in each position. The competition for lineup positions should bring the very best out of an already competitive squad. Expect this young squad to improve upon their last season and quite possibly a deep playoff run.