The NLL has had some very good goaltenders over the years. Start with Dallas Eluik, who may be the best of all time. After that you look at Bob Watson, who is the current goaltender of the Toronto Rock. Currently, you would also talk about Anthony Cosmo, Matt Vinc, and Pat O'toole. But who is the best goaltender iin lacrosse? The worst? Who can lead his team to the Champions Cup?
#13 on our list of goaltenders is Andrew Leyshon of the Colorado Mammoth.Last in goals against average last season, he was the reason Colorado wanted Matt Vinc. In his career, he has a GAA of 13.05. Last season his mostly backed up Chris Levis, but he was not exactly a goaltender of the year either. He also previously backed up Curtis Palidwor, who returns to Colorado. Leyshon's future is unclear right now, with Palidwor returned and Matt King now on the Colorado roster. But one thing is for certain; He is not a starting goaltender.
#12 Mike Thompson of the Buffalo BanditsThompson came into the league in 2001 and then took a six year absence. In 2007, he returned to a 12.08 goals against average in all 16 games. In 2008 and 2009 he had some better seasons, and in 2010 he did a terrific job playing while Ken Montour was out. Unfortunately, that may be all that he is. A backup.
#11 Aaron Bold of the Rochester KnighthawksAaron Bold is probably the best backup goaltender in the league. Last season in Rochester, he had a 11.12 GAA in 16 games and 313 minutes. He had an offseason in 2009 with a GAA over 15, but he was also injured and played only seven games. In the years before that, he average a goals against average of under 11, with minutes around 145 per season.
#10 Matt King of the Colorado MammothKing played most of his career in Calgary before being traded to the Colorado Mammoth. He started off in Calgary, and then was traded to the Anaheim Storm. After they dispersed, King played backup goaltender for the Portland Lumberjaxx, backing up Aaron Bold and Dwight Maetche. In 2008, The Edmonton Rush acquired King to be their starting goaltender. But they traded him to Calgary late in the season. Since the move to Calgary, King has had GAA os 10.38 and 11.27. Now he looks to replace Vinc in Colorado.
#9 Nick Patterson of the Minnesota SwarmPatterson started his career with the Vancouver Ravens as a backup goaltender. He was traded to Minnesota in 2005, and had a GAA of 15.51. He was later made the Swarm's starting goaltender, where he put up better numbers to lower his career GAA to 12.90.
#8 Tyler Richards of the Washington StealthRichards was drafted in the fourth round of the 2007 NLL entry draft. He found himself in their in 2009 as a backup goaltender, where he had a GAA of 10.48. The Stealth made him their starter in 2010, where he helped get them to the Champions Cup. Richards also has a playoff record of 4-1, his loss coming in the 2009 loss in the Western Conference Championship to the Calgary Roughnecks.
#7 Ken Montour of the Buffalo BanditsMontour missed some of the 2010 season due to injury, but when in there he had a GAA under 11. Before that season, Montour has been the Bandits starting goaltender in 2009 and 2008. In 2009, Montour had a GAA of 9.57.
#6 Matt Disher of the Edmonton RushDisher was drafted in 1999 by the Buffalo Bandits and became their backup goaltender. In his first four seasons, his lowest GAA was 14.00. After being traded to Anaheim and then Minnesota, Disher turned his game around, excusing the 17 GAA in 2007. In his move to Edmonton, he had a career low in GAA and then Portland and Edmonton again. He helped Edmonton get to the Western Conference finals last season.
#5 Brandon Miller of the Philadelphia WingsMiller began his career in Albany/San Jose backing up Rob Blasdell and Anthony Cosmo. He was later traded to Chicago where he became the starting goaltender. Miller was successful in San Jose before moving to Chicago, with GAAs of 12.06, 10.46, and 11.45. After being traded to Philadelphia, Miller's success returned, though the Wings missed the playoffs.
#4 Bob Watson of the Toronto Rock
Read about Watson here.
#3 Pat O'toole of the Rochester Knighthawks
Read about O'toole here.
#2 Anthony Cosmo of the Boston Blazers
Read about Cosmo here.
#1 Matt Vinc of the Rochester Knighthawks
Read about Vinc here.
Showing posts with label Swarm. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Swarm. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
NLL Season Preview- October
The NLL is still months away, but a lot has happened this offseason to shape the season already. Every month we will have an NLL preview, talking about different aspects that will matter this season.
NLL Preview- Scoring
A lot of prime offensive players switched teams this offseason. Including last season's MVP Casey Powell. The Boston Blazers offense has been well documented this offseason, acquiring Powell and Josh Sanderson from the Calgary Roughnecks.
But those were not the only players to switch teams. Geoff Snider was traded to Calgary, and Jeff Zwycki left the Washington Stealth. And with Colin Doyle being traded last offseason, this looks to be the norm in the NLL.
Who will lead?In the east, I think Boston. I've talked about them a lot so far already, so how about the west. If Calgary didn;t trace everybody, I would have said them, but I am going to go with Washington for now, the defending champs. Paul Rabil leads that team obviously, so I believe as of right now Washington will lead the West in scoring.
Who is in the cellar?Philadelphia. They lost Snider, which really hurts their offense. I don't see them even making the playoffs as of right now. In the west, I'm going with Colorado, though I do see them making the playoffs with Vinc. I think Minnesota will score more, but I do not believe they are good enough to make the playoffs this season.
Lead the league?I think Josh Sanderson will lead the league again. With playmaker Casey Powell playing with him, I can see a repeat for Sanderson.
Top 5?My top 5 point getters this season, in no order, would be Sanderson, Powell, Lewis Ratcliff, Colin Doyle, and Callum Crawford. Honorable mention: Paul Rabil
NLL Preview- Scoring
A lot of prime offensive players switched teams this offseason. Including last season's MVP Casey Powell. The Boston Blazers offense has been well documented this offseason, acquiring Powell and Josh Sanderson from the Calgary Roughnecks.
But those were not the only players to switch teams. Geoff Snider was traded to Calgary, and Jeff Zwycki left the Washington Stealth. And with Colin Doyle being traded last offseason, this looks to be the norm in the NLL.
Who will lead?In the east, I think Boston. I've talked about them a lot so far already, so how about the west. If Calgary didn;t trace everybody, I would have said them, but I am going to go with Washington for now, the defending champs. Paul Rabil leads that team obviously, so I believe as of right now Washington will lead the West in scoring.
Who is in the cellar?Philadelphia. They lost Snider, which really hurts their offense. I don't see them even making the playoffs as of right now. In the west, I'm going with Colorado, though I do see them making the playoffs with Vinc. I think Minnesota will score more, but I do not believe they are good enough to make the playoffs this season.
Lead the league?I think Josh Sanderson will lead the league again. With playmaker Casey Powell playing with him, I can see a repeat for Sanderson.
Top 5?My top 5 point getters this season, in no order, would be Sanderson, Powell, Lewis Ratcliff, Colin Doyle, and Callum Crawford. Honorable mention: Paul Rabil
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Player Preview: Ryan Benesch
Ryan Benesch was always a player that sparked my interest. This year for Minnesota he was 11th in the NLL ins scoring, scoring a career high 83 points. So we are going to look over Benesch's career so far, and tell what to expect this upcoming 2011 season.
Benesch was the first overall pick of the San Jose Stealth in the 2006 draft. He was soon traded to the Toronto Rock with two other players for 2005 MVP Colin Doyle. That season, Benesch was named rookie of the month in the month of May, and he also made the first-team all rookies.
In the offseason, Benesch was traded to the Edmonton Rush along with Derek Suddons. Benesch was later traded to the Minnesota Swarm along with Scott Self for Ryan Ward.
Last season on three occasions he scored the hat trick. He broke two Swarm records with 11 points in a game and nine assists in a game. He was the 2007 rookie of the year, and he led the Swarm in scoring in the playoffs last season. His career high in points before last season was 58, his rookie year in Toronto.
Benesch is a terrific young player and i would expect an even better year this season, maybe 90-100 points.
Benesch was the first overall pick of the San Jose Stealth in the 2006 draft. He was soon traded to the Toronto Rock with two other players for 2005 MVP Colin Doyle. That season, Benesch was named rookie of the month in the month of May, and he also made the first-team all rookies.
In the offseason, Benesch was traded to the Edmonton Rush along with Derek Suddons. Benesch was later traded to the Minnesota Swarm along with Scott Self for Ryan Ward.
Last season on three occasions he scored the hat trick. He broke two Swarm records with 11 points in a game and nine assists in a game. He was the 2007 rookie of the year, and he led the Swarm in scoring in the playoffs last season. His career high in points before last season was 58, his rookie year in Toronto.
Benesch is a terrific young player and i would expect an even better year this season, maybe 90-100 points.
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
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
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Lax Links- 9/22
Sorry I haven't posted in a while, the combination of computer problems and another project are the reason for that. I promise to get a Minnesota Swarm preview up before next week. but let's do Lax Links for now.
Great article here from Lax Magazine- Lacrosse Magazine
Inside Lacrosse podcast talks to Tom Ryan- NLL Insider
Rabil added to Bowhunter cup- NLL Insider
Great article here from Lax Magazine- Lacrosse Magazine
Inside Lacrosse podcast talks to Tom Ryan- NLL Insider
Rabil added to Bowhunter cup- NLL Insider
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
NLL Deals
Some trades in the NLL the last few days will be recapped.
The Minnesota Swarm traded Kevin Buchanan to the Boston Blazers for Mat Giles. Giles was acquired from Philadelphia in the middle of last season to sure up the power play. Buchanan on the other hand was the first round pick for Minnesota in the 2008 draft and led rookies in scoring in 2009 and made the all NLL-rookie team. Buchanan will fit in with the Blazers, he is also a player on the Boston Cannons.
Meanwhile the Rock and restricted free agent drama continues with them claiming Kyle Ross from the Roughnecks. Ross was in the deal that sent Josh Sanderson to Boston and Calgary is on the clock to match the deal. This is the third time the Rock have claimed a RFA free agent, the first two being Paul Dawson and John Orsen.
The Buffalo Bandits have acquired Scott Self and Jay Thorimbert fro the Minnesota Swarm for their second round pick and a first rounder in 2012.
Also a notice: The NLL Entry Draft is September 8th in Toronto. It will be broad casted at NLL Network at NLL.com, but stay at The Lacrosse Blog as we will Live Blog the draft here. There will be an open thread, so feel free to join.
The Minnesota Swarm traded Kevin Buchanan to the Boston Blazers for Mat Giles. Giles was acquired from Philadelphia in the middle of last season to sure up the power play. Buchanan on the other hand was the first round pick for Minnesota in the 2008 draft and led rookies in scoring in 2009 and made the all NLL-rookie team. Buchanan will fit in with the Blazers, he is also a player on the Boston Cannons.
Meanwhile the Rock and restricted free agent drama continues with them claiming Kyle Ross from the Roughnecks. Ross was in the deal that sent Josh Sanderson to Boston and Calgary is on the clock to match the deal. This is the third time the Rock have claimed a RFA free agent, the first two being Paul Dawson and John Orsen.
The Buffalo Bandits have acquired Scott Self and Jay Thorimbert fro the Minnesota Swarm for their second round pick and a first rounder in 2012.
Also a notice: The NLL Entry Draft is September 8th in Toronto. It will be broad casted at NLL Network at NLL.com, but stay at The Lacrosse Blog as we will Live Blog the draft here. There will be an open thread, so feel free to join.
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.
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.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
NLL Week 16 Picks
I missed last night's games, with Orlando and Calgary winning. I would have picked those two teams anyways.
Tonight- Boston @ Buffalo- Boston
Orlando @ Minnesota- Orlando has nothing to play for, and they can't risk injury, while Minnesota would look to enter the playoffs on a high note- Minnesota
Rochester @ Washington- Rochester
Chat about the Games here!
Tonight- Boston @ Buffalo- Boston
Orlando @ Minnesota- Orlando has nothing to play for, and they can't risk injury, while Minnesota would look to enter the playoffs on a high note- Minnesota
Rochester @ Washington- Rochester
Chat about the Games here!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
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.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Game Preveiw: Boston @ Colorado
photo credit: NLL.com 
Preview: Boston faces another must win in Colorado tonight, tied with the Bandits and Knighthawks for the final playoff spot. The good news is Buffalo is playing the east's top team, the Orlando Titans. The Knighthawks play the Rock tonight, with the winner clinching a playoff berth. Meanwhile, Colorado needs a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. They are only a game back of the Minnesota Swarm for the last spot in the west.
Leading Scorer: Boston: Dan Dawson, 73 pts
Colorado: Jamie Shewchuk, 62 pts
Goaltender: Boston: Anthony Cosmo, 9.47 GAA, .801 S%
Colorado: Andrew Layshon, 13.38 GAA, .716 S%
Injuries: Boston: None
Colorado: Ilija Gajic (Illness)
Game Notes: * The Mammoth power play is 2 for it's last 10 attempts.
* The Mammoth can clinch a playoff spot with two wins and two Minnesota losses.
* The Mammoth win over Edmonton last week was their first in regulation.
* The Blazers can clinch a playoff spot with two wins, a win and two Rochester losses, or beating Buffalo next week and Buffalo losing this week to Orlando.
* 17% of the Blazers goals this season have come on the power play.
* The game can be seen at NLL.com at 9pm.
Preview: Boston faces another must win in Colorado tonight, tied with the Bandits and Knighthawks for the final playoff spot. The good news is Buffalo is playing the east's top team, the Orlando Titans. The Knighthawks play the Rock tonight, with the winner clinching a playoff berth. Meanwhile, Colorado needs a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. They are only a game back of the Minnesota Swarm for the last spot in the west.
Leading Scorer: Boston: Dan Dawson, 73 pts
Colorado: Jamie Shewchuk, 62 pts
Goaltender: Boston: Anthony Cosmo, 9.47 GAA, .801 S%
Colorado: Andrew Layshon, 13.38 GAA, .716 S%
Injuries: Boston: None
Colorado: Ilija Gajic (Illness)
Game Notes: * The Mammoth power play is 2 for it's last 10 attempts.
* The Mammoth can clinch a playoff spot with two wins and two Minnesota losses.
* The Mammoth win over Edmonton last week was their first in regulation.
* The Blazers can clinch a playoff spot with two wins, a win and two Rochester losses, or beating Buffalo next week and Buffalo losing this week to Orlando.
* 17% of the Blazers goals this season have come on the power play.
* The game can be seen at NLL.com at 9pm.
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.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
NLL Game Preveiws and Chat Post
Here are your NLL games for today:
Minnesota Swarm @ Boston Blazers
The Blazers are looking for a win today to stay in the playoff chase. With a loss Rochester would jump into the playoff picture, and they play the Wings today, a chance for a win, so the Blazers need to win to stay afloat.
Minnesota lost to the Knighthawks last night, so they need a win and Colorado loss to clinch a playoff berth.
Toronto Rock @ Buffalo Bandits
The Bandits could use a win as well, in the same situation as Boston. The Rock look to clinch a playoff berth with a win.
Washington Stealth @ Orlando Titans
The two top teams in each division, the Stealth look to clinch a first round home game. The Titans look to clinch a spot in the playoffs.
Philadelphia Wings @ Rochester Knighthawks
The Wings need a win to keep their small playoff hopes alive, while the Knighthawks can put themselves in a good position.
Colorado Mammoth @ Calgary Roughnecks
A win here would get the 'Necks in the 2010 NLL playoffs. But a loss would keep the Mammoth in it.
Talk about the games here tonight!
Minnesota Swarm @ Boston Blazers
The Blazers are looking for a win today to stay in the playoff chase. With a loss Rochester would jump into the playoff picture, and they play the Wings today, a chance for a win, so the Blazers need to win to stay afloat.
Minnesota lost to the Knighthawks last night, so they need a win and Colorado loss to clinch a playoff berth.
Toronto Rock @ Buffalo Bandits
The Bandits could use a win as well, in the same situation as Boston. The Rock look to clinch a playoff berth with a win.
Washington Stealth @ Orlando Titans
The two top teams in each division, the Stealth look to clinch a first round home game. The Titans look to clinch a spot in the playoffs.
Philadelphia Wings @ Rochester Knighthawks
The Wings need a win to keep their small playoff hopes alive, while the Knighthawks can put themselves in a good position.
Colorado Mammoth @ Calgary Roughnecks
A win here would get the 'Necks in the 2010 NLL playoffs. But a loss would keep the Mammoth in it.
Talk about the games here tonight!
Friday, April 9, 2010
NLL Game Preveiw: Knighthawks @ Swarm
photo credit: NLL.com 
Preview: The K'Hawks travel to Minnesota, desperate for a win after last week's loss to Calgary. Again, with a Buffalo or Boston loss, they can sneak into the playoff picture. Meanwhile, the Swarm look to clinch a spot in the 2010 NLL playoffs with a win and Colorado loss.
Leading Scorer: Minnesota: Callum Crawford 73 pts
Rochester: John Grant 60 pts
Goaltender: Minnesota: Nick Patterson 12.28 GAA, .754 S%
Rochester: Pat O'Toole 10.36 GAA, .767 S%
Injuries: Minnesota: None
Rochester: Gary Gait (leg)
Notes: * The Swarm is 0-3 when scoring first in a game.
* Nick Patterson made 53 saves last week in a losing cause
* The Knighthawks have lost four straight, all at home
* 24 of the Knighthawks 26 penalty minutes last game came in the first half
* You can listen to the game on WZNE 94.1 FM in Rochester. You can watch the game at NLL.com
Preview: The K'Hawks travel to Minnesota, desperate for a win after last week's loss to Calgary. Again, with a Buffalo or Boston loss, they can sneak into the playoff picture. Meanwhile, the Swarm look to clinch a spot in the 2010 NLL playoffs with a win and Colorado loss.
Leading Scorer: Minnesota: Callum Crawford 73 pts
Rochester: John Grant 60 pts
Goaltender: Minnesota: Nick Patterson 12.28 GAA, .754 S%
Rochester: Pat O'Toole 10.36 GAA, .767 S%
Injuries: Minnesota: None
Rochester: Gary Gait (leg)
Notes: * The Swarm is 0-3 when scoring first in a game.
* Nick Patterson made 53 saves last week in a losing cause
* The Knighthawks have lost four straight, all at home
* 24 of the Knighthawks 26 penalty minutes last game came in the first half
* You can listen to the game on WZNE 94.1 FM in Rochester. You can watch the game at NLL.com
NLL Game Preveiw: Mammoth @ Rush
photo credit: NLL.com 
Preveiw: The Edmonton Rush, who last week clinched a playoff spot, look to the beat the Colorado Mammoth. With a win, the Rush will move ahead of the Washington Stealth in the West. Along with a Roughnecks loss, they will clinch a home game in the playoffs. For the Mammoth, a loss and a Minnesota Swarm win would eliminate them from playoff contention.
Leading Scorer: Edmonton: Ryan Ward 60 pts
Colorado: Jamie Shrewchuk 48 pts
Goaltender: Edmonton: Matt Disher 12.84 GAA, .754 S%
Colorado: Andrew Layshon 13.39 GAA, .716 S%
Injuries: Edmonton: Chris McElroy (Questionable)
Colorado: Ilija Gajic (Illness)
Notes: * The Mammoth are 0-5 in games where they score less than 10 goals
* The Mammoth have lost four one-goal games this season
* Edmonton penalty killers gave up four goals on five Stealth PP attempts last week
* The game can be heard on CFRN 1260 AM in Edmonton. You can watch the game at NLL.com
* The game is in Rexell place in Edmonton
* The Rush lost the lose ball battle in Minnesota, 105-85
Preveiw: The Edmonton Rush, who last week clinched a playoff spot, look to the beat the Colorado Mammoth. With a win, the Rush will move ahead of the Washington Stealth in the West. Along with a Roughnecks loss, they will clinch a home game in the playoffs. For the Mammoth, a loss and a Minnesota Swarm win would eliminate them from playoff contention.
Leading Scorer: Edmonton: Ryan Ward 60 pts
Colorado: Jamie Shrewchuk 48 pts
Goaltender: Edmonton: Matt Disher 12.84 GAA, .754 S%
Colorado: Andrew Layshon 13.39 GAA, .716 S%
Injuries: Edmonton: Chris McElroy (Questionable)
Colorado: Ilija Gajic (Illness)
Notes: * The Mammoth are 0-5 in games where they score less than 10 goals
* The Mammoth have lost four one-goal games this season
* Edmonton penalty killers gave up four goals on five Stealth PP attempts last week
* The game can be heard on CFRN 1260 AM in Edmonton. You can watch the game at NLL.com
* The game is in Rexell place in Edmonton
* The Rush lost the lose ball battle in Minnesota, 105-85
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
This week's NLL Blog Power Rankings
Here are this week's Power Rankings:
1. Edmonton Rush-- The Rush won both games of a weekend series, beating the West leader Washington Stealth and the playoff contender Minnesota Swarm.
2. Toronto Rock-- The Rock won both their games, beating the Roughnecks and Wings.
3. Orlando Titans-- The Titans won a big game vs the Boston Blazers to separate a little.
4. Washington Stealth-- The Stealth are still the league's top team, but the Rush have tied them, leaving some Stealth fans worried. The loss of Jeff Zywicki does not help them either.
5. Minnesota Swarm-- The Swarm lost a heart breaker to the Rush, but still look for that playoff spot.
6. Calgary Roughnecks-- The Roughnecks lost a tough one to Toronto, but rebounded nicely vs the K'Hawks.
7. Boston Blazers-- The Blazers needed a win, but didn't get. The lack of scoring in the second half has to be a concern.
8. Buffalo Bandits-- With a win the Bandits could've moved ahead of Boston, but could not beat Colorado.
9. Rochester Knighthawks-- The K'Hakws could've used a win vs Calgary, as it would've moved them into a playoff spot.
10. Philadelphia Wings-- After a nice win vs Boston a week ago, the Wings could not keep the momentum going against the Rock.
11. Colorado Mammoth-- Even with a win vs the Bandits, the Mammoth will not be a playoff contender this year.
1. Edmonton Rush-- The Rush won both games of a weekend series, beating the West leader Washington Stealth and the playoff contender Minnesota Swarm.
2. Toronto Rock-- The Rock won both their games, beating the Roughnecks and Wings.
3. Orlando Titans-- The Titans won a big game vs the Boston Blazers to separate a little.
4. Washington Stealth-- The Stealth are still the league's top team, but the Rush have tied them, leaving some Stealth fans worried. The loss of Jeff Zywicki does not help them either.
5. Minnesota Swarm-- The Swarm lost a heart breaker to the Rush, but still look for that playoff spot.
6. Calgary Roughnecks-- The Roughnecks lost a tough one to Toronto, but rebounded nicely vs the K'Hawks.
7. Boston Blazers-- The Blazers needed a win, but didn't get. The lack of scoring in the second half has to be a concern.
8. Buffalo Bandits-- With a win the Bandits could've moved ahead of Boston, but could not beat Colorado.
9. Rochester Knighthawks-- The K'Hakws could've used a win vs Calgary, as it would've moved them into a playoff spot.
10. Philadelphia Wings-- After a nice win vs Boston a week ago, the Wings could not keep the momentum going against the Rock.
11. Colorado Mammoth-- Even with a win vs the Bandits, the Mammoth will not be a playoff contender this year.
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