In an affair not televised on NLL Network, the Edmonton Rush were defeated by the Rochester Knighthawks, 15-11. There will be a series of scrimmages in the Iroquois Lacrosse Arena. The scoring started for Edmonton three minutes in with Brodie Merrill beating new K-Hawks goaltender Matt Vinc. Gavin Prout, Andy Secore, and Alex Kehoe Hill scored goals to extend the Rush first quarter lead by four goals.
The Knighthawks rushed right back into the game, with three unanswered goals by Shawn Evans, Joel McCready and Marty Hill. At the 4:05 mark of the second quarter, Pat O'Tooke entered the game for Rochester.
Edmonton greeted the new goaltender with two straight short handed goals from Scott Tining and Merill to make the score 7-3. Evans trimmed the lead with a delayed penalty, but Edmonton did not sit still.
Edmonton was able to score four straight goals by Dane Stevens, Prout, Hill, and Dean Hill. Bobby McBride got a late goal for Rochester, but it wasn't enough as Edmonton went to halftime with twelve goals.
Aaron Bold entered the game for Rochester after the half, and they also changed their lineup. Craig Point entered the game and scored. But Stevens and Hill were able to extend the Rush lead.
Point scored again for Rochester, but it was all for naught. Edmonton continued their scoring attack on the Knighthawks goaltenders, and came home with a win.
Notes-
- Matt Vinc appeared in a K'Hawks uniform for the first time.
- Alex Kehoe Hill had a hat trick for the Rush.
- Rochester did not dress Jordon Hall, Cody Jaimeson, Shawn Williams, or Chris Schiller.
- Marty Hill registered four points for Rochester.
- Brodie Merrill scored two goals for Edmonton.
- Brandon Atherton served as the Edmonton backup goaltender for Edmonton.
Showing posts with label Rush. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rush. Show all posts
Monday, December 6, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Games of the Year #8- Washington vs Edmonton
In what was one of the matchups of the year in the NLL, the Washington Stealth faced off vs the Edmonton Rush in a game to determine the best of the west. Washington was coming off a first round blowout of Minnesota, and Edmonton a win over Calgary. Edmonton and Washington had fought all season for the #1 spot in the west, and while Washington ended up there Edmonton fell to third. But positioning did not matter in this game, as they were two of the best in the NLL, facing off for a berth in the Champions Cup.
Washington started the game off on a high note, with Paul Rabil scoring 3:39 into the game, followed by goals from Jeff Zywicki and two from Luke Wiles. Washington was able to hold a 4-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Cam Sedgewick and Rabil scored quickly into the second quarter, giving them a strong 6-1 advantage over the Rush. But Edmonton would not go away, scoring three unanswered goals in the second to cut the lead for Washington with 1:46 left. Rhys Duch of Washington was able to give the Stealth a bit more breathing room with his late period goal.
The Rush were motivated going into the third, scoring two straight goals to open the new half. But once again the Stealth had an answer, with Zywicki opening up the score to 8-6. Duch scored again seconds later, to make the score 9-6 going into the pivotal fourth quarter.
The Rush had beaten the Stealth twice in their three matchups this season, their two wins one goal wins. The Stealth knew the Rush had the ability to come back late in games. The Rush and Stealth traded goals to start the period, with Luke Wiles scoring his third of the night. Brodie Merrill was able to make the score 11-9 with 3:39 left in the quarter. The Rush pulled their goaltender Matt Disher for the final two minutes, and 55 seconds in Corey Small scored to make the score 11-10. With 20 seconds left Andy Secore tied the score at 11, and the final buzzer sounded with a tie. “I thought we were a little unlucky in the last four minutes,” said Stealth Head Coach Chris Hall. “We talked at halftime about it getting scrappy and intense down the stretch. We managed to stay poised and battle through it.”
Overtime lasted a mere eight seconds, as the Rush watched their hope melt away at the stick of Paul Rabil. Jamison Koesterer won a big faceoff for Washington, which trickled to Rabil who scored past Disher for the Washington win, and a chance to compete in the Champions Cup.
Media
Stealthlax.com
The Lacrosse Blog
Washington started the game off on a high note, with Paul Rabil scoring 3:39 into the game, followed by goals from Jeff Zywicki and two from Luke Wiles. Washington was able to hold a 4-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Cam Sedgewick and Rabil scored quickly into the second quarter, giving them a strong 6-1 advantage over the Rush. But Edmonton would not go away, scoring three unanswered goals in the second to cut the lead for Washington with 1:46 left. Rhys Duch of Washington was able to give the Stealth a bit more breathing room with his late period goal.
The Rush were motivated going into the third, scoring two straight goals to open the new half. But once again the Stealth had an answer, with Zywicki opening up the score to 8-6. Duch scored again seconds later, to make the score 9-6 going into the pivotal fourth quarter.
The Rush had beaten the Stealth twice in their three matchups this season, their two wins one goal wins. The Stealth knew the Rush had the ability to come back late in games. The Rush and Stealth traded goals to start the period, with Luke Wiles scoring his third of the night. Brodie Merrill was able to make the score 11-9 with 3:39 left in the quarter. The Rush pulled their goaltender Matt Disher for the final two minutes, and 55 seconds in Corey Small scored to make the score 11-10. With 20 seconds left Andy Secore tied the score at 11, and the final buzzer sounded with a tie. “I thought we were a little unlucky in the last four minutes,” said Stealth Head Coach Chris Hall. “We talked at halftime about it getting scrappy and intense down the stretch. We managed to stay poised and battle through it.”
Overtime lasted a mere eight seconds, as the Rush watched their hope melt away at the stick of Paul Rabil. Jamison Koesterer won a big faceoff for Washington, which trickled to Rabil who scored past Disher for the Washington win, and a chance to compete in the Champions Cup.
Media
Stealthlax.com
The Lacrosse Blog
Monday, October 18, 2010
Top 15 Lax Games of the Year... Plus Lax Links
Starting this week, we will be counting down the top 15 college and pro lacrosse games of the year. If you have any recommendations, please post them in the comments.
We will also have a player feature on Matt Benesch and have an NLL season preview. For now, Lax Links.
Who is Ben Davies?- NLL Insider
Seven questions until college lacrosse- Lacrosse Magazine
Rush get new lease- NLL.com
Stealth add new coaches- NLL.com
We will also have a player feature on Matt Benesch and have an NLL season preview. For now, Lax Links.
Who is Ben Davies?- NLL Insider
Seven questions until college lacrosse- Lacrosse Magazine
Rush get new lease- NLL.com
Stealth add new coaches- NLL.com
Friday, September 24, 2010
Roughnecks trade Wray to Rush
The Calgary Roughnecks have traded long time Roughneck Devan Wray to the Edmonton Rush for a sixth round pick in the 2011 draft.
Wray was acquired by Calgary in 2003 from Vancouver for a first round pick. President and General Manager, Brad Banister expresses, “It is a sad day for the Roughnecks as Devan has been with us for a long time. He has always been a tireless work horse and a great leader for the team, on and off the floor.”
"It came to the point where he wasn’t going to get a whole bunch of playing time with us, due to the addition of Geoff Snider and still having Nolan Heavenor in the line-up. We really wanted Devan to stay within the organization, but he still wishes to continue his playing career.”
Wray stacked up 41 loose balls last season, but saw his playing time decrease. “We would have loved to have had him aboard the coaching staff, but realistically he is going to be a great addition for Edmonton, as he was born and raised there. It will be nice for him to go back to his roots and play professional lacrosse in Edmonton and we wish him all the best.”
Wray was acquired by Calgary in 2003 from Vancouver for a first round pick. President and General Manager, Brad Banister expresses, “It is a sad day for the Roughnecks as Devan has been with us for a long time. He has always been a tireless work horse and a great leader for the team, on and off the floor.”
"It came to the point where he wasn’t going to get a whole bunch of playing time with us, due to the addition of Geoff Snider and still having Nolan Heavenor in the line-up. We really wanted Devan to stay within the organization, but he still wishes to continue his playing career.”
Wray stacked up 41 loose balls last season, but saw his playing time decrease. “We would have loved to have had him aboard the coaching staff, but realistically he is going to be a great addition for Edmonton, as he was born and raised there. It will be nice for him to go back to his roots and play professional lacrosse in Edmonton and we wish him all the best.”
Thursday, September 23, 2010
NLL Preview Minnesota Swarm
The Swarm had a very disappointing year, going 5-11 but making the playoffs due to Colorado's horrendous season. But Minnesota could not have been happy with their efforts as they try to regain their form again.
Minnesota barely made the playoffs, losing their last six games of their season, they made it only when Colorado lost their second to last game of the season. It's no surprise either, they were tied for the worst goals again est average in the league. Both their goaltenders, Nick Patterson and Eric Croswell, had GAA's over 12.
One of the bright spots in the Swarm season was the play of Callum Crawford. Crawford had bounced around in his first five seasons, playing on five different teams. His 96 points were his career high by a large margin, his previous high being 41 the season before. It was also the first time Crawford had played a full season, playing only 13 games before with Edmonton, and before that 12, 13, and 5 games per season. The Swarm look for Crawford to continue off his breakout season and be their catalyst on offense.
The next leading scorer for Minnesota was Ryan Benesch. Benesch scored 81 points in his first year in Minnesota, also a career high for him. His previous high had been 58 in his rookie year with Toronto. The Swarm also acquired Benesch from Edmonton, was traded for Ryan Ward, who turned out to be Edmonton's leading scorer. Benesch had been traded from Toronto to Edmonton previous of that.
The Swarm's next leading scorer is Tim Campeau, with 48 points. Acquired from Portland in the dispersal draft, Campeau scored twenty more points than the previous year and picked up 51 more loose balls.
I'm going to look at one more player here from Minnesota, one I expect big things from in the future. Zack Greer was just a rookie last season, and played in 13 games and picked up 13 points. Greer is one of the top scorers on the MLL's Long Island Lizards, and I think a big year may in the waiting for Greer in Minnesota.
Minnesota had enough scoring to go by. In fact, they scored more than Edmonton, Boston, and Buffalo, who all made the playoffs with a better record. But their issue once again leads to goaltending. They gave up 201 goals on the year. Nick Patterson was 13th in the league in goals against. His save percentage was the third lowest in league, only Andrew Leyshon and Matt King was a lower save percentage. Patterson has been a long time member of the Swarm, coming over from the Vancouver Ravens in 2005. In that time period his best GAA was in 2006 when he had a 10.16 GAA, and the year after that it was 10.88. Patterson has been good in the past, but his GAA has gone up every year since then. But the one thing that stands out about Patterson is his playoff numbers. His career GAA in the playoffs is 14.01. His save percentage is only .713. And he has never had a playoff win, holding a record of 0-4.
I really think the Swarm can make the playoffs again, but they need an all around better year from their goaltenders.
The next and final preview: Buffalo
Minnesota barely made the playoffs, losing their last six games of their season, they made it only when Colorado lost their second to last game of the season. It's no surprise either, they were tied for the worst goals again est average in the league. Both their goaltenders, Nick Patterson and Eric Croswell, had GAA's over 12.
One of the bright spots in the Swarm season was the play of Callum Crawford. Crawford had bounced around in his first five seasons, playing on five different teams. His 96 points were his career high by a large margin, his previous high being 41 the season before. It was also the first time Crawford had played a full season, playing only 13 games before with Edmonton, and before that 12, 13, and 5 games per season. The Swarm look for Crawford to continue off his breakout season and be their catalyst on offense.
The next leading scorer for Minnesota was Ryan Benesch. Benesch scored 81 points in his first year in Minnesota, also a career high for him. His previous high had been 58 in his rookie year with Toronto. The Swarm also acquired Benesch from Edmonton, was traded for Ryan Ward, who turned out to be Edmonton's leading scorer. Benesch had been traded from Toronto to Edmonton previous of that.
The Swarm's next leading scorer is Tim Campeau, with 48 points. Acquired from Portland in the dispersal draft, Campeau scored twenty more points than the previous year and picked up 51 more loose balls.
I'm going to look at one more player here from Minnesota, one I expect big things from in the future. Zack Greer was just a rookie last season, and played in 13 games and picked up 13 points. Greer is one of the top scorers on the MLL's Long Island Lizards, and I think a big year may in the waiting for Greer in Minnesota.
Minnesota had enough scoring to go by. In fact, they scored more than Edmonton, Boston, and Buffalo, who all made the playoffs with a better record. But their issue once again leads to goaltending. They gave up 201 goals on the year. Nick Patterson was 13th in the league in goals against. His save percentage was the third lowest in league, only Andrew Leyshon and Matt King was a lower save percentage. Patterson has been a long time member of the Swarm, coming over from the Vancouver Ravens in 2005. In that time period his best GAA was in 2006 when he had a 10.16 GAA, and the year after that it was 10.88. Patterson has been good in the past, but his GAA has gone up every year since then. But the one thing that stands out about Patterson is his playoff numbers. His career GAA in the playoffs is 14.01. His save percentage is only .713. And he has never had a playoff win, holding a record of 0-4.
I really think the Swarm can make the playoffs again, but they need an all around better year from their goaltenders.
The next and final preview: Buffalo
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
NLL Preview Edmonton Rush
The NLL Draft will be soon upon us. The NLL season is now only a few months away, and it's time to preview them.
The Edmonton Rush made their first apperence in playoff history last season, and made it to the western division finals. The Rush were able to beat the defending champion Roughnecks on the road before falling to the Washington Stealth. The Rush ere one of the most dangerous teams in the NLL last season, getting hot down the stretch and one of the favorites to win the cup.
The Rush have goaltender Matt Disher returning after an up and down season. His reguler season GAA was at the bottom of the pack, but he stepped it up down the stretch. They also had great years from the likes of Gavin Prount, Brodie Merrill and Ryan Ward, their leading goal scorer. Ward was also their leading scorer in the playoffs, coming up clutch with 12 assists.
Edmonton had only one runner in the top 20 scorers, and that was Ward. But after that was Gavin Prount, Andy Secore, and Ryan Powell. Prount, though a solid season, scored the least amount of points in his career. With the Mammoth, Prount scored 91, 78, 93, 89, 92, and 78 points. In his first year in Edmonton only 67 while playing the full season. Prount is 32, maybe we are seeing a decline in him.
Now let's look at Ryan Powell. Powell has always been a good player, but his brother Casey has always been the superstar. Powell last year played his first season with the Rush, scoring 51 points. Powell was aquired by Edmonton in the Portland Lumberjaxx dispersal draft, where Powell had spent the bulk of his career. Powell had some really good seasons with the Lumberjaxx before moving to the Rush, so maybe he is starting to get on a roll. The Rush would love some better contribuations from Powell and Prount to get that championship.
There is a lot of parody in the west this year. Washington will still be good, as will Calgary, and Colorado has improved. The Rush will be among that class, and have a good of shot as any at the Champions cup this season.
The Edmonton Rush made their first apperence in playoff history last season, and made it to the western division finals. The Rush were able to beat the defending champion Roughnecks on the road before falling to the Washington Stealth. The Rush ere one of the most dangerous teams in the NLL last season, getting hot down the stretch and one of the favorites to win the cup.
The Rush have goaltender Matt Disher returning after an up and down season. His reguler season GAA was at the bottom of the pack, but he stepped it up down the stretch. They also had great years from the likes of Gavin Prount, Brodie Merrill and Ryan Ward, their leading goal scorer. Ward was also their leading scorer in the playoffs, coming up clutch with 12 assists.
Edmonton had only one runner in the top 20 scorers, and that was Ward. But after that was Gavin Prount, Andy Secore, and Ryan Powell. Prount, though a solid season, scored the least amount of points in his career. With the Mammoth, Prount scored 91, 78, 93, 89, 92, and 78 points. In his first year in Edmonton only 67 while playing the full season. Prount is 32, maybe we are seeing a decline in him.
Now let's look at Ryan Powell. Powell has always been a good player, but his brother Casey has always been the superstar. Powell last year played his first season with the Rush, scoring 51 points. Powell was aquired by Edmonton in the Portland Lumberjaxx dispersal draft, where Powell had spent the bulk of his career. Powell had some really good seasons with the Lumberjaxx before moving to the Rush, so maybe he is starting to get on a roll. The Rush would love some better contribuations from Powell and Prount to get that championship.
There is a lot of parody in the west this year. Washington will still be good, as will Calgary, and Colorado has improved. The Rush will be among that class, and have a good of shot as any at the Champions cup this season.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
More Orlando Titans Aftermath
As expected, there is a lot more in the aftermath of the folding of the Orlando Titans, including the draft order in tomorrow's dispersal draft. However as it was expected tomorrow, it may be held out into next week because of the players wanting to terminate their contract. The order of the draft is expected to look like this:
Colorado (expected to select Casey Powell)
Boston (via the Max Seibald trade)
Rochester
Minnesota
Philadelphia
Buffalo
Edmonton
Calgary
Toronto
Washington.
Philadelphia and Boston will flip-flop their positioning in later rounds due to trades and acquisitions that allow Boston to currently be ahead of Philadelphia.
It is also believed now that Matt Vinc may terminate his contract with Orlando.
Colorado (expected to select Casey Powell)
Boston (via the Max Seibald trade)
Rochester
Minnesota
Philadelphia
Buffalo
Edmonton
Calgary
Toronto
Washington.
Philadelphia and Boston will flip-flop their positioning in later rounds due to trades and acquisitions that allow Boston to currently be ahead of Philadelphia.
It is also believed now that Matt Vinc may terminate his contract with Orlando.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Lax Links for 6/10
Here are today's Lax Links:
Keenan signs extension with Rush- NLL Insider
Colin Doyle traded in Canadian BoxLax- NLL Insider
Cannons vs Denver to be on ESPN2- MLL.com
And to followers of NLL Blog: We need your support. If you are a follower, comment on posts and help build the community, we need it to be on SBN.
Keenan signs extension with Rush- NLL Insider
Colin Doyle traded in Canadian BoxLax- NLL Insider
Cannons vs Denver to be on ESPN2- MLL.com
And to followers of NLL Blog: We need your support. If you are a follower, comment on posts and help build the community, we need it to be on SBN.
Friday, May 14, 2010
NLL Champions Cup Preveiw: Stealth vs Rock
It's time for the National Lacrosse League Champions Cup. This years matchup features the team with the best regular season, the Washington Stealth. They face a team in the Toronto Rock who look to tie the Philadelphia Wings record of six championships. Fresh off his rookie of the year, Stephen Leblanc look to knock off Rhys Duch and the Washington Stealth.
Leading Point Scorer(Playoffs): Was:Rhys Duch, 14 pts
Tor: Stephen LeBlanc, 12 pts
Goaltender: Was: Tyler Richards
Tor: Bob Watson
Injuries: Was: Travis Gillspie
Tor: None
Game Notes:
* The Rock look for their sixth championship in a year that was meant for rebuilding.
* A sub-plot in this game will be the return of Colin Doyle to the Stealth. Both Lewis Ratcliff and Doyle, the two center pieces in that deal, have not done much these playoffs
* The Stealth held the Rush to one goal in thirteen shots on Saturday
* The Rock were 0-4 on their power play
* The game can be seen Saturday night at 10:30 on NLL.com, or Sunday at 2pm on Versus. I will have an open thread to chat tomorrow night and Sunday.
Leading Point Scorer(Playoffs): Was:Rhys Duch, 14 pts
Tor: Stephen LeBlanc, 12 pts
Goaltender: Was: Tyler Richards
Tor: Bob Watson
Injuries: Was: Travis Gillspie
Tor: None
Game Notes:
* The Rock look for their sixth championship in a year that was meant for rebuilding.
* A sub-plot in this game will be the return of Colin Doyle to the Stealth. Both Lewis Ratcliff and Doyle, the two center pieces in that deal, have not done much these playoffs
* The Stealth held the Rush to one goal in thirteen shots on Saturday
* The Rock were 0-4 on their power play
* The game can be seen Saturday night at 10:30 on NLL.com, or Sunday at 2pm on Versus. I will have an open thread to chat tomorrow night and Sunday.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
NLL Final Scores
Last night the Toronto Rock beat the Orlando Titans to clinch a trip to the Champions Cup. The Rock went up early, 3-1, before Orlando stormed back to take a 5-3 lead. The Rock swarmed back and scored seven goals in the third quarter alone. The Rock dominated play in the second half and picked up the 15-10 win.
It was a much tighter game in Everett as the Washington Stealth beat the Edmonton Rush 12-11 in overtime, ironically the same score when these two teams met for the last time in the regular season. The Rush scored two goals in the final 56 seconds to tie it and came back from a fourth quarter three goal deficit. The Stealth would lead by five in the second quarter, but the Rush resiliently came back. The Stealth scored eight seconds into the OT, a goal from Paul Rabil to beat Matt Disher.
Next week the Washington Stealth will host the Toronto Rock for the Champions Cup. The game will be Saturday, May 15 at 10:30 pm. You can watch the game on Versus at 2 pm the next day.
It was a much tighter game in Everett as the Washington Stealth beat the Edmonton Rush 12-11 in overtime, ironically the same score when these two teams met for the last time in the regular season. The Rush scored two goals in the final 56 seconds to tie it and came back from a fourth quarter three goal deficit. The Stealth would lead by five in the second quarter, but the Rush resiliently came back. The Stealth scored eight seconds into the OT, a goal from Paul Rabil to beat Matt Disher.
Next week the Washington Stealth will host the Toronto Rock for the Champions Cup. The game will be Saturday, May 15 at 10:30 pm. You can watch the game on Versus at 2 pm the next day.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Controversy?
There was some controversy in last week's Bandits-Rock game. Blaine Manning and Steve Hoar went down with injuries late in the fourth quater, but came right back out before an offical stoppage of play. Here is the rule:
Rule 28: INJURED PLAYERS
INJURED PLAYER DEFINITION – An injured player shall be defined as a player hurt requiring the official to stop play. The injured player may not return to the floor until the next non technical stoppage of play. Violation will result in a bench minor penalty
When Hoar came back onto the field, it was after the 30 second shot clock violation. Is that an offical stoppage of play? The refs thought so, and Hoar was able to come back out.
In Manning's case, he was hurt on a cross-check penalty. He needed the help of an athletic trainor to get off the field, but was back 28 seconds later to assist on Stephen LeBlanc's game winning goal.
You make the call.
Other news: Tomorrow the divison finals games between the Rock and Titans, and Rush and Stealth will air on NLL.com. You can follow and chat about the games here.
Help me get this blog on SBNation! Comment and become a follower to grow the community!
Rule 28: INJURED PLAYERS
INJURED PLAYER DEFINITION – An injured player shall be defined as a player hurt requiring the official to stop play. The injured player may not return to the floor until the next non technical stoppage of play. Violation will result in a bench minor penalty
When Hoar came back onto the field, it was after the 30 second shot clock violation. Is that an offical stoppage of play? The refs thought so, and Hoar was able to come back out.
In Manning's case, he was hurt on a cross-check penalty. He needed the help of an athletic trainor to get off the field, but was back 28 seconds later to assist on Stephen LeBlanc's game winning goal.
You make the call.
Other news: Tomorrow the divison finals games between the Rock and Titans, and Rush and Stealth will air on NLL.com. You can follow and chat about the games here.
Help me get this blog on SBNation! Comment and become a follower to grow the community!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
NLL Playoffs Round One: Recaps
What an exciting night in the NLL! I was there first hand to see the Orlando Titans beat out the Boston Blazers in a thriller, 12-11. Here are your recaps:
* Toronto beat Buffalo, 13-11
* Edmonton beat Calgary 11-7.
* Washington beat Minnesota 14-10
* The Titans did a great job of containing Dan Dawson all night, only allowing one goal from the Blazers superstar. Meanwhile, Casey Powell scored five goals and lit up the Blazers defense.
* Matt Disher stopped 60 shots for Edmonton, leading them to their first playoff win ever.
* Ryan Ward had eight assists for the Rush
* Rhys Duch scored six goals for the Stealth.
* Stehphen LeBlanc scored five goals for Toronto.
* Games next week will be Toronto @ Orlando at 7:35 pm and Edmonton @ Washington at 10:30.
* Predictions: Edmonton and Toronto win.
* Toronto beat Buffalo, 13-11
* Edmonton beat Calgary 11-7.
* Washington beat Minnesota 14-10
* The Titans did a great job of containing Dan Dawson all night, only allowing one goal from the Blazers superstar. Meanwhile, Casey Powell scored five goals and lit up the Blazers defense.
* Matt Disher stopped 60 shots for Edmonton, leading them to their first playoff win ever.
* Ryan Ward had eight assists for the Rush
* Rhys Duch scored six goals for the Stealth.
* Stehphen LeBlanc scored five goals for Toronto.
* Games next week will be Toronto @ Orlando at 7:35 pm and Edmonton @ Washington at 10:30.
* Predictions: Edmonton and Toronto win.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
NLL Playoffs Scehdule and more
The NLL playoffs begin Saturady and I will be at the Blazers-Titans game, so the live thread will be without me this week.
Here is your playoff schdule:
Rush @ Roughnecks 3:00 pm
Blazers @ Titans 7:35 pm
Bandits @ Rock 7:35 pm
Swarm @ Stealth 10:30 pm
Here are my picks for these games, you can make yours in the comments:
Blazers over Orlando- The Blazers have the Titans number all season
Rush over 'Necks- I really like the Rush this year
Rock over Buffalo- This pick seems easy
Stealth over Swarm- Another gimmie
I pick the Rush to beat the Rock for the NLL championship game, which, by the way, will be aired on Versus according to an NLL press release.
Here is your playoff schdule:
Rush @ Roughnecks 3:00 pm
Blazers @ Titans 7:35 pm
Bandits @ Rock 7:35 pm
Swarm @ Stealth 10:30 pm
Here are my picks for these games, you can make yours in the comments:
Blazers over Orlando- The Blazers have the Titans number all season
Rush over 'Necks- I really like the Rush this year
Rock over Buffalo- This pick seems easy
Stealth over Swarm- Another gimmie
I pick the Rush to beat the Rock for the NLL championship game, which, by the way, will be aired on Versus according to an NLL press release.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Brad Bannister not happy
Last week the Calgary Roughnecks beat the Colorado Mammoth, clinching a home game in the playoffs. However, The Roughencks GM and owner, Brad Bannister, is not happy. Because of a Simon and Garfunkel concert at the SaddleDome, plus the WHL playoffs, the Roughencks NLL playoff game vs the Edmonton Rush will be played at 1pm MST. Here is the quote from Bannister:.
“The time for the game is brutal, and I’m not sure if we can withstand the blow… In the past, afternoon games held at 3 p.m. have brought half the attendance as opposed to evening games. Backing the game up to an even earlier time of 1 p.m., when 3 p.m. games are proven to disappoint, how will we fare?.. The NHL, WHL and NLL playoffs are always at the same time each season and the Roughnecks have a proven track record when it comes to the post-season. That said, why wasn’t more attention paid to scheduling issues?.. Either the Flames had no intention of making the playoffs on their own, or they had no intention of giving us a playoff spot. How did the Flames expect to potentially hold their own playoff game? Did they think they would be playing at 1 p.m. on a Saturday?.. How does a taxpayers’ building fall into the hands of self-proclaimed billionaires? The Flames should build their own arena. Instead of leveling the ‘Dome, the City of Calgary should take it back. I am disgusted. I grew up in this city. I went to school here, I have businesses here, and I’m the lowest person on the totem pole as far as the Flames are concerned… We’ve won two Championships, and we are trying to win a third. Home playoff dates are key to the survival of the franchise… Our guys know the importance of hosting a home playoff game. They have fulfilled their obligation expecting the Saddledome to be behind them – unfortunately that’s not the case. There comes a time when you have to stand up to bullies – that time is now"
Hours after blasting the Flames, Bannister apologized.
This is what VP of building operations for the Flames had to say:
“We are disappointed with Brad’s comments. As he is aware, we have made considerable concessions to support the Roughnecks as tenants. We fulfil the complex obligation of booking the facility for all purposes — sporting, cultural and community — often a difficult juggling task.”
“The time for the game is brutal, and I’m not sure if we can withstand the blow… In the past, afternoon games held at 3 p.m. have brought half the attendance as opposed to evening games. Backing the game up to an even earlier time of 1 p.m., when 3 p.m. games are proven to disappoint, how will we fare?.. The NHL, WHL and NLL playoffs are always at the same time each season and the Roughnecks have a proven track record when it comes to the post-season. That said, why wasn’t more attention paid to scheduling issues?.. Either the Flames had no intention of making the playoffs on their own, or they had no intention of giving us a playoff spot. How did the Flames expect to potentially hold their own playoff game? Did they think they would be playing at 1 p.m. on a Saturday?.. How does a taxpayers’ building fall into the hands of self-proclaimed billionaires? The Flames should build their own arena. Instead of leveling the ‘Dome, the City of Calgary should take it back. I am disgusted. I grew up in this city. I went to school here, I have businesses here, and I’m the lowest person on the totem pole as far as the Flames are concerned… We’ve won two Championships, and we are trying to win a third. Home playoff dates are key to the survival of the franchise… Our guys know the importance of hosting a home playoff game. They have fulfilled their obligation expecting the Saddledome to be behind them – unfortunately that’s not the case. There comes a time when you have to stand up to bullies – that time is now"
Hours after blasting the Flames, Bannister apologized.
This is what VP of building operations for the Flames had to say:
“We are disappointed with Brad’s comments. As he is aware, we have made considerable concessions to support the Roughnecks as tenants. We fulfil the complex obligation of booking the facility for all purposes — sporting, cultural and community — often a difficult juggling task.”
Sunday, April 25, 2010
NLL Playoffs Set
The NLL playoffs where finalized last night, with Buffalo and Boston getting the final bids. Buffalo beat Boston 13-9, clinching them a playoff spot and a shot at the Toronto Rock. The Blazers clinched when the Washington Stealth beat Rochester 14-9, knocking the K'Hawks out. The matchups are as they follow:
Buffalo(3) @ Toronto (2) Saturday
Boston(4) @ Orlando (1) TBA
Edmonton(3) @ Calgary(2) Saturday
Minnesota(4) @ Washington (1) Saturday
The Edmonton Rush made the playoffs for the first time in their history. The Roughnecks are the defending champions, and the Titans the defending East Division champs.
Buffalo(3) @ Toronto (2) Saturday
Boston(4) @ Orlando (1) TBA
Edmonton(3) @ Calgary(2) Saturday
Minnesota(4) @ Washington (1) Saturday
The Edmonton Rush made the playoffs for the first time in their history. The Roughnecks are the defending champions, and the Titans the defending East Division champs.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
NLL Inside the Teams- Toronto Rock
The Rock started off this season 6-1 and soaring. Then they went on a five game losing streak, and everything went downhill. The bandits and Blazers overtook them in the Eastern Division. Now after clinching a playoff spot, the Rock have a good shot to go far. They will play either the Knighthawks, Blazers, or Bandits. Here is an in-depth look at the Toronto Rock:
Season schedule: January 9: Win @ Boston
1/15: OT win vs Boston
1/23: win vs Rochester
1/30: Loss at Rochester
2/5: win vs Philadelphia
2/6: Win @ Buffalo
2/12: win vs Edmonton
2/14: Loss @ Calgary
2/12: loss @ Edmonton
2/27: loss vs Orlando
3/12: OT loss vs Buffalo
3/27: loss @ Orlando
4/2: Win vs Calgary
4/3: Win @ Philadelphia
4/10: Loss @ Buffalo
4/16: Win vs Rochester
Rock Roster:
Jeff Gilbert F
Sandy Chapman F
Colin Doyle F
Creighton Reid F
Brandan Doran F
Pat McCready F
Mike Hobbins F
Anthoney Lackey F
Garret Billings F
Rob Marshall F
Blaine Manning F
Stephn LeBlanc F
Phil Sanderson F
Cam Woods F
Josh Wasson F
Kasey Beirnes F
Scott Campbell F
Stephan Hoar F
Geoff McNulty F
Drew Petkoff F
Mike Hominuck F
Bob Watson G
Steve Dietrich G
Rock facts:
Bob Watson was goalie of the year in 2008
The Rock have won championships in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005
They are formerly the Ontario Raiders
Season schedule: January 9: Win @ Boston
1/15: OT win vs Boston
1/23: win vs Rochester
1/30: Loss at Rochester
2/5: win vs Philadelphia
2/6: Win @ Buffalo
2/12: win vs Edmonton
2/14: Loss @ Calgary
2/12: loss @ Edmonton
2/27: loss vs Orlando
3/12: OT loss vs Buffalo
3/27: loss @ Orlando
4/2: Win vs Calgary
4/3: Win @ Philadelphia
4/10: Loss @ Buffalo
4/16: Win vs Rochester
Rock Roster:
Jeff Gilbert F
Sandy Chapman F
Colin Doyle F
Creighton Reid F
Brandan Doran F
Pat McCready F
Mike Hobbins F
Anthoney Lackey F
Garret Billings F
Rob Marshall F
Blaine Manning F
Stephn LeBlanc F
Phil Sanderson F
Cam Woods F
Josh Wasson F
Kasey Beirnes F
Scott Campbell F
Stephan Hoar F
Geoff McNulty F
Drew Petkoff F
Mike Hominuck F
Bob Watson G
Steve Dietrich G
Rock facts:
Bob Watson was goalie of the year in 2008
The Rock have won championships in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005
They are formerly the Ontario Raiders
NLL Power Rankings
Here are your NLL Blog power rankings going into the last week of the season:
1. Orlando Titans: The Titans clinched the #1 seed in the East this week with a win over the Bandits.
2. Washington Stealth: The Stealth missed out on a chance to clinch #1 seed in the west, with Edmonton still in the hunt.
3. Calgary Roughnecks: The Roughnecks defeated Edmonton in OT to have a chance to finish second or even first.
4. Toronto Rock: The Rock won last week to clinch a playoff spot. They have come a long way from their 1-6 start.
5. Edmonton Rush: The Rush won one of their games this weekend, meaning they still have a chance at the #1 seed in the west.
6. Boston Blazers: The Blazers won a huge game vs the Mammoth to keep their playoff hopes alive. Props to Nick Rose for finishing the game in net.
7. Buffalo Bandits: The Bandits lost a heartbreaker to Orlando, meaning next weeks game vs the Blazers is a must win.
8. Rochester Knighthawks: The K'Hawks lost to the Rock, meaning that a win and Boston loss gets them into the playoffs.
9. Philadelphia Wings: The Wings beat a struggling Minnesota team, but have not shot at the playoffs.
10. Minnesota Swarm: The Swarm have been losing lately, but Colorado's loss means they back into the playoffs.
11. Colorado Mammoth: The Mammoth lost their game to Boston, so they are now out of playoff contention.
1. Orlando Titans: The Titans clinched the #1 seed in the East this week with a win over the Bandits.
2. Washington Stealth: The Stealth missed out on a chance to clinch #1 seed in the west, with Edmonton still in the hunt.
3. Calgary Roughnecks: The Roughnecks defeated Edmonton in OT to have a chance to finish second or even first.
4. Toronto Rock: The Rock won last week to clinch a playoff spot. They have come a long way from their 1-6 start.
5. Edmonton Rush: The Rush won one of their games this weekend, meaning they still have a chance at the #1 seed in the west.
6. Boston Blazers: The Blazers won a huge game vs the Mammoth to keep their playoff hopes alive. Props to Nick Rose for finishing the game in net.
7. Buffalo Bandits: The Bandits lost a heartbreaker to Orlando, meaning next weeks game vs the Blazers is a must win.
8. Rochester Knighthawks: The K'Hawks lost to the Rock, meaning that a win and Boston loss gets them into the playoffs.
9. Philadelphia Wings: The Wings beat a struggling Minnesota team, but have not shot at the playoffs.
10. Minnesota Swarm: The Swarm have been losing lately, but Colorado's loss means they back into the playoffs.
11. Colorado Mammoth: The Mammoth lost their game to Boston, so they are now out of playoff contention.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
NLL Game Recaps
The Blazers won a key game this weekend with Rochester and Buffalo losing. A win or Rochester loss next week gets them into the playoffs. The Orlando Titans clinched the number one seed in the east, while The Mammoth where officially eliminated. The rock clinched a playoff berth.
Notes:
* The Rush beat the Stealth in OT, which means a Roughnecks and Stealth loss next week gives them the number one seed in the west. They finish their season 10-6.
* Geoff Snider scored four goals for the Wings in their win over the Minnesota Swarm. John Christmas had the hat trick for Minnesota.
* Buffalo suffered a tough loss to Orlando, which means next week's game vs Boston is a must win.
* Toronto absolutely dominated Rochester, which means they clinch a playoff spot. A win and a Buffalo loss, and the Knighthawks make the playoffs.
* Nick Rose, the backup goalie for Boston, was spectacular at the end of the game. Anthony Cosmo was ejected for illegal equipment in the third quarter.
*Josh Sanderson scored the hat trick and a game winner in OT for the roughnecks vs the Rush.
Next week is the last week of the regular season! Boston plays Buffalo, Orlando plays Philly, Calgary plays Colorado, Rochester plays Washington, and Orlando plays Minnesota.
Notes:
* The Rush beat the Stealth in OT, which means a Roughnecks and Stealth loss next week gives them the number one seed in the west. They finish their season 10-6.
* Geoff Snider scored four goals for the Wings in their win over the Minnesota Swarm. John Christmas had the hat trick for Minnesota.
* Buffalo suffered a tough loss to Orlando, which means next week's game vs Boston is a must win.
* Toronto absolutely dominated Rochester, which means they clinch a playoff spot. A win and a Buffalo loss, and the Knighthawks make the playoffs.
* Nick Rose, the backup goalie for Boston, was spectacular at the end of the game. Anthony Cosmo was ejected for illegal equipment in the third quarter.
*Josh Sanderson scored the hat trick and a game winner in OT for the roughnecks vs the Rush.
Next week is the last week of the regular season! Boston plays Buffalo, Orlando plays Philly, Calgary plays Colorado, Rochester plays Washington, and Orlando plays Minnesota.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Week 15 NLL Picks
Here are my predictions for this week's games:
Buffalo Bandits @ Orlando Titans
This is an interesting game. Buffalo could use the win, and Orlando can clinch a playoff spot. I say Buffalo pulls this out. Bandits
Boston Blazers @ Colorado Mammoth
Again, this is a game the Blazers need. Colorado is fighting Minnesota for a playoff spot though. I say Boston wins. Blazers
Rochester Knighthwaks @ Toronto Rock
The Knighthawks could easily find themselves in a playoff position with a win. I say Toronto wins a tough game in OT. Rock
Calgary Roughnecks @ Edmonton Rush
I love the Rush. They've played well, so I'll take them over the newly clinched Roughnecks. Rush
Philadelphia Wings @ Minnesota Swarm
The Swarm are falling out of playoff contention fast. I say they're swoon continues with a loss to Philly. Wings
Edmonton Rush @ Washington Stealth
A good matchup here. I think the Stealth win here. Stealth
Make your predictions at the comments.
Buffalo Bandits @ Orlando Titans
This is an interesting game. Buffalo could use the win, and Orlando can clinch a playoff spot. I say Buffalo pulls this out. Bandits
Boston Blazers @ Colorado Mammoth
Again, this is a game the Blazers need. Colorado is fighting Minnesota for a playoff spot though. I say Boston wins. Blazers
Rochester Knighthwaks @ Toronto Rock
The Knighthawks could easily find themselves in a playoff position with a win. I say Toronto wins a tough game in OT. Rock
Calgary Roughnecks @ Edmonton Rush
I love the Rush. They've played well, so I'll take them over the newly clinched Roughnecks. Rush
Philadelphia Wings @ Minnesota Swarm
The Swarm are falling out of playoff contention fast. I say they're swoon continues with a loss to Philly. Wings
Edmonton Rush @ Washington Stealth
A good matchup here. I think the Stealth win here. Stealth
Make your predictions at the comments.
Monday, April 12, 2010
This Week's NLL Schedule
Here is this week's NLL Schedule:
Friday: Rochester @ Toronto 7:30
Buffalo @ Orlando 7:35
Boston @ Colorado 9:00
Calgary @ Edmonton 9:00
Saturday: Philadelphia @ Minnesota 8:35
Edmonton @ Washington 10:30
There will be game previews for each game throughout the week. You chat about all the games at the NLL GameNight Chat Thread.
Friday: Rochester @ Toronto 7:30
Buffalo @ Orlando 7:35
Boston @ Colorado 9:00
Calgary @ Edmonton 9:00
Saturday: Philadelphia @ Minnesota 8:35
Edmonton @ Washington 10:30
There will be game previews for each game throughout the week. You chat about all the games at the NLL GameNight Chat Thread.
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