Mount Si’s boys basketball team is in a transition phase this winter, as local resident Steve Helm takes over for former head coach Jeff D’Ambrosio. The Wildcats, who had a strong season last year, return one key piece from last year’s successful squad, senior Dallas Smith.

“The biggest thing Dallas can bring to us is leadership and I’ve seen it,” the coach said.

Smith is ready to live up to his responsibilities.

“Just lead by example, work hard, make sure everybody’s working hard out there and start talking on defense, getting our jobs done,” he said.

Smith’s primary role last year, which earned him a second-team All-Kingco postseason honor, was as an outside shooter capable of shooting three-pointers; this year, as the top returning senior, he will be the go-to guy on offense. He has been busy improving his game.

“In the offseason, I really worked on taking it to the rack more, getting fouled, getting to the free throw line a lot,” Smith said. “We do have big guys, so when I do shoot, they get a lot of rebounds. Taking it to the rack will open up my outside game.”

There are a good number of post players on this season’s Wildcat team, and inside play will be a big factor for Mount Si. Leading that group is junior Anthony McLaughlin, but other players who could see time in the paint include seniors Alec Deichman and Joe Farmer, and junior Miles Zupan.

Bellevue, Lake Washington, Mercer Island and Sammamish are expected to be the favorites in the league. Smith says for Mount Si to have success, defense is key

Helm hopes fans are in it for the long haul.

“Expectations are high, but be patient,” he said.

Mount Si opens its season this week, and plays over the holidays in Boston.