A lot to talk about in the world of lacrosse yesterday. First off, the Washington Stealth signed transition player Paul Rabil to a three year extension. “Paul is truly developing into a fantastic indoor lacrosse player,” said Stealth Head Coach Chris Hall. “He’s an explosive player and virtually impossible to handle one-on-one. He really adds another dimension to our team and in just his third NLL season, he is on the verge of becoming one of the best in the game.”
Meanwhile the Calgary Roughnecks are having their problems. Hours after learning they will not hold training camp due to disciplinary behavior, they announced camp was back on in Calgary. Here is the statement from the Roughnecks: " Yesterday an alleged incident was brought to the attention of the Calgary Roughnecks organization that may have occurred during last weekend’s training camp. The conduct alleged was not of a criminal nature but would have violated team policy and expectations. In order to emphasize to the team that their behavior is expected to represent the Roughnecks properly at all times, management determined that the proportionate response was to cancel training camp this weekend.
Upon further investigation, it was determined that cancellation of camp would be a disproportionate response to the conduct that may have actually occurred. As a result training camp has been reinstated for this weekend.
Upon the conclusion of the continuing investigation, the one player involved will be appropriately disciplined if found to be at fault. The Roughnecks will not tolerate objectionable conduct by players, staff or management."
Meanwhile, top Roughnecks player Curtis Manning will miss the entire 2011 season. The reason behind this is he will be attending a medical school. The Roughnecks will also be without Rob Van Beek, who is pursuing a career as a firefighter.
One final transaction in the NLL world; The Rochester Knighthawks traded Matt Danowski to the Philadelphia Wings for a conditional draft pick. Danowski dressed for just one game with Rochester last season, after playing nine for the Mammoth the year before.
Showing posts with label Knighthawks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Knighthawks. Show all posts
Friday, December 10, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Edmonton falls to Rochester in Scrimmage
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
NLL Goaltenders; The Best, The Worst, and Matt Vinc
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.
#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.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Boston Blazers.. Is This Their Year?
(photo credit: NLL.com)
When the Boston Blazers first acquired Casey Powell, I thought they became the favorites in the East. When they acquired Josh Sanderson, I thought so even more. The Blazers certainly have what looks to be a powerhouse offense, with those additions along with Dan Dawson. But did the Blazers address their biggest need? And are there more teams to worry about in the East?
Looking at the Blazers roster up-to-down, it looks pretty solid. Along with their big three they have Scott Campbell, John Orsen, Greg Downing, Gary Bining, Kevin Buchanan, Sean Morris, and Dan Teat. Those are some pretty good complementary players to Sanderson, Dawson and Powell. And on the goaltending front, you cannot go wrong with Anthony Cosmo. So again, on paper this team looked solid.
I feel they did address their biggest problem, which was second half scoring. After teams would adjust to Dan Dawson, the Blazers did not have enough players to pick up the slack. They tried to fix this by acquiring Mat Giles, and he was ok, but he was also not their scoring solution.
By getting Powell and later Sanderson, that should solve the issue. Teams cannot double cover all three players. Especially Powell, who has had a history of good second halves.
While credit to Boston for improving the issue, Powell kind of fell right into their lap. Thanks to the Giles trade of the previous season, Boston was left with the #2 pick of the Titans dispersal. With Colorado snatching up Matt Vinc, Powell was left open for the Blazers. They did have to surrender a few players for Sanderson, but it was well worth getting the former MVP.
The rest of their additions look like good support players, like Dan Teat, who is 20th all time in NLL scoring. And then Kevin Buchanan, who looks to score a few goals.
But other teams are improving too. Toronto has a really solid roster, with Blaine Manning, Colin Doyle, Garret Billings and Wade LeBlanc. The Rock, I have always thought, would be able to contend with Boston. But with the recent additions of Rochester, the Knighthawks might jump into that mix. And it is not so much Vinc, as they always had Pat O'Toole in net.
But even with the loss of John Grant, they have Cody Jaimeson, Jordon Hall, Craig Point, Steve Toll, Shawn Evans, and Matt Zash. With a few more roster moves, they also have Brad Self and Matt Danowski.
So with the Knighthawks and Rock in the mix, that leaves the Blazers with some tough opponents. Back to the Blazers, is their still a weakness on this team? They improved their problems from last year, but that does not mean they won't have problems somewhere else.
I think the Blazers acquired some good defensive players with Orsen and Campbell, but they lost Paul Dawson, who is one of the best in the league. While those two may make up for the loss, the acquisition of Kyle Rubisch was supposed to as well. However he remains unsigned, and it is unknown if Boston will have to trade him.
When the Boston Blazers first acquired Casey Powell, I thought they became the favorites in the East. When they acquired Josh Sanderson, I thought so even more. The Blazers certainly have what looks to be a powerhouse offense, with those additions along with Dan Dawson. But did the Blazers address their biggest need? And are there more teams to worry about in the East?
Looking at the Blazers roster up-to-down, it looks pretty solid. Along with their big three they have Scott Campbell, John Orsen, Greg Downing, Gary Bining, Kevin Buchanan, Sean Morris, and Dan Teat. Those are some pretty good complementary players to Sanderson, Dawson and Powell. And on the goaltending front, you cannot go wrong with Anthony Cosmo. So again, on paper this team looked solid.
I feel they did address their biggest problem, which was second half scoring. After teams would adjust to Dan Dawson, the Blazers did not have enough players to pick up the slack. They tried to fix this by acquiring Mat Giles, and he was ok, but he was also not their scoring solution.
By getting Powell and later Sanderson, that should solve the issue. Teams cannot double cover all three players. Especially Powell, who has had a history of good second halves.
While credit to Boston for improving the issue, Powell kind of fell right into their lap. Thanks to the Giles trade of the previous season, Boston was left with the #2 pick of the Titans dispersal. With Colorado snatching up Matt Vinc, Powell was left open for the Blazers. They did have to surrender a few players for Sanderson, but it was well worth getting the former MVP.
The rest of their additions look like good support players, like Dan Teat, who is 20th all time in NLL scoring. And then Kevin Buchanan, who looks to score a few goals.
But other teams are improving too. Toronto has a really solid roster, with Blaine Manning, Colin Doyle, Garret Billings and Wade LeBlanc. The Rock, I have always thought, would be able to contend with Boston. But with the recent additions of Rochester, the Knighthawks might jump into that mix. And it is not so much Vinc, as they always had Pat O'Toole in net.
But even with the loss of John Grant, they have Cody Jaimeson, Jordon Hall, Craig Point, Steve Toll, Shawn Evans, and Matt Zash. With a few more roster moves, they also have Brad Self and Matt Danowski.
So with the Knighthawks and Rock in the mix, that leaves the Blazers with some tough opponents. Back to the Blazers, is their still a weakness on this team? They improved their problems from last year, but that does not mean they won't have problems somewhere else.
I think the Blazers acquired some good defensive players with Orsen and Campbell, but they lost Paul Dawson, who is one of the best in the league. While those two may make up for the loss, the acquisition of Kyle Rubisch was supposed to as well. However he remains unsigned, and it is unknown if Boston will have to trade him.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
What Will the Knighthawks do with Pat O'Toole?
(photo credit: Knighthawks.net)
The Knighthawks may be one of the most improved teams in the NLL this season. But they also may have helped other teams improve. They traded their star player John Grant to Colorado with Mac Allen for Matt Vinc, Matt Zash and Brad Self. The case with Vinc has always been; What do you do with Pat O'Toole?
O'Toole is a very good goaltender in his own right. He was one of the best back in the 1990's and still is today. But with the K'Hawks likely committed to Vinc (they signed him to a three year deal) it seems O'Toole will soon be on the move. What teams are out there willing to take on O'Toole?
First off, the Knighthawks offense may take a hit with the loss of Grant and Allen. They did add on some good scoring players this offseason with Cody Jaimeson, Jordon Hall, Matt Zash and Brad Self. But Allen was one of the better transition players in the league and Grant a scorer. If O'Toole is to be moved, I imagine the price for a scorer would be high. Don't get me wrong, Rochester has scoring potential. But I just think they could probably add a big name if O'Toole is moved.
What teams may be interested? The Calgary Roughnecks may be, after trading Matt King their projected starting goaltender is Mike Poulin. They may be interested in O'Toole, but with a depleted roster from so many moves, they may not be a trade fit.
The Swarm a certainly a team Rochester could fish from. Minnesota's starting goaltender, Nick Patterson, ranked near the bottom of the league in all goaltender stats. They still do have Kevin Croswell, but with a pretty good offensive team they might be willing to trade a player for O'Toole.
An unlikely trade partner my be Buffalo, as they already have Mike Thompson and are going to compete with Rochester, but it might turn out to be a possibility. Another team in this category may be Philadelphia. But after a season in which Brandon Miller was awful, I can see the Wings willing to deal for O'Toole.
This will be a fascinating season of Knighthawks lacrosse, in a vastly improved east division. Now with Vinc to lead them, O'Toole may have a new home outside of Rochester, for the first time in 13 years.
The Knighthawks may be one of the most improved teams in the NLL this season. But they also may have helped other teams improve. They traded their star player John Grant to Colorado with Mac Allen for Matt Vinc, Matt Zash and Brad Self. The case with Vinc has always been; What do you do with Pat O'Toole?
O'Toole is a very good goaltender in his own right. He was one of the best back in the 1990's and still is today. But with the K'Hawks likely committed to Vinc (they signed him to a three year deal) it seems O'Toole will soon be on the move. What teams are out there willing to take on O'Toole?
First off, the Knighthawks offense may take a hit with the loss of Grant and Allen. They did add on some good scoring players this offseason with Cody Jaimeson, Jordon Hall, Matt Zash and Brad Self. But Allen was one of the better transition players in the league and Grant a scorer. If O'Toole is to be moved, I imagine the price for a scorer would be high. Don't get me wrong, Rochester has scoring potential. But I just think they could probably add a big name if O'Toole is moved.
What teams may be interested? The Calgary Roughnecks may be, after trading Matt King their projected starting goaltender is Mike Poulin. They may be interested in O'Toole, but with a depleted roster from so many moves, they may not be a trade fit.
The Swarm a certainly a team Rochester could fish from. Minnesota's starting goaltender, Nick Patterson, ranked near the bottom of the league in all goaltender stats. They still do have Kevin Croswell, but with a pretty good offensive team they might be willing to trade a player for O'Toole.
An unlikely trade partner my be Buffalo, as they already have Mike Thompson and are going to compete with Rochester, but it might turn out to be a possibility. Another team in this category may be Philadelphia. But after a season in which Brandon Miller was awful, I can see the Wings willing to deal for O'Toole.
This will be a fascinating season of Knighthawks lacrosse, in a vastly improved east division. Now with Vinc to lead them, O'Toole may have a new home outside of Rochester, for the first time in 13 years.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Knighthawks Lock up Vinc
NLL Insider has confirmed that the Rochester Knighthawks locked up their goaltender Matt Vinc to a three year deal.
Vinc was traded two weeks ago from Colorado for John Grant and Mac Allen. The salary figures were not revealed, but Vinc's agent, Chaka Bainbridge has confirmed it makes him one of the highest payed players in the National Lacrosse League. “He is excited to help bring Rochester back as a perennial title contender,” said Bainbridge. “Curt (Styres) and the entire Knighthawk staff are serious about succeeding and winning multiple Cups and this signing shows their commitment to that.”
Vinc is coming off a busy year, being named goaltender of the year with Orlando, being drafted by Colorado in the dispersal and then traded to Rochester, and leading team Canada to the FIL championship game.
“With every team getting stronger in the off-season the Knighthawks had to make some changes to stay competitive and right now I think they would have to be considered to have leap frogged Toronto and Boston as a favourite with Buffalo to advance to the Champion’s Cup from the East,” added Bainbridge
I think I will disagree with that last statement, as I think Toronto and Boston are still the favorites. But their is no doubt Rochester has improved this offseason via draft and free agency, as well as the Vinc trade.
Vinc was traded two weeks ago from Colorado for John Grant and Mac Allen. The salary figures were not revealed, but Vinc's agent, Chaka Bainbridge has confirmed it makes him one of the highest payed players in the National Lacrosse League. “He is excited to help bring Rochester back as a perennial title contender,” said Bainbridge. “Curt (Styres) and the entire Knighthawk staff are serious about succeeding and winning multiple Cups and this signing shows their commitment to that.”
Vinc is coming off a busy year, being named goaltender of the year with Orlando, being drafted by Colorado in the dispersal and then traded to Rochester, and leading team Canada to the FIL championship game.
“With every team getting stronger in the off-season the Knighthawks had to make some changes to stay competitive and right now I think they would have to be considered to have leap frogged Toronto and Boston as a favourite with Buffalo to advance to the Champion’s Cup from the East,” added Bainbridge
I think I will disagree with that last statement, as I think Toronto and Boston are still the favorites. But their is no doubt Rochester has improved this offseason via draft and free agency, as well as the Vinc trade.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Nightly Lax Links
Lax Links for your Tuesday evening.
Bruce Alexander retires- NLL Insider
Craig Point is ready for 2011- Knighthawks.net
NHL following in NLL's footsteps?- TSN.ca
Rush re-sign key player- NLL.com
Jamieson has a lot of work to do- Examiner.com
Bruce Alexander retires- NLL Insider
Craig Point is ready for 2011- Knighthawks.net
NHL following in NLL's footsteps?- TSN.ca
Rush re-sign key player- NLL.com
Jamieson has a lot of work to do- Examiner.com
Player Preview: John Grant
With the bloackbuster trade of Matt Vinc and John Grant last week, we had a Vinc player preview with his new team in upstate New York. Now, we look at the player moving from the only franchise he's ever known to Denver.
Grant was originally a third round pick for the Buffalo Bandits in 1995, but opted not to sign and to stay in college. He re-entered the draft four years later in 1999, and was selected first overall by the Rochester Knighthawks, and was named rookie of the year. In the next three years in Rochester, Grant scored 95, 105, and 99 points. The year where he scored 105 came in a 14 game season, and the year he scored 95 was in 12 games.
The next season, 2004, Grant was injured most of the year and was only able to score 35 points in 5 games.
In 2007, Grant set a National Lacrosse league record with 15 points in a single game in a win over the New York Titans. Grant was also named MVP that season, as well as Champions Cup MVP with the championship in Rochester. The record does not hold, as Mark Steenhius of the Buffalo Bandits broke it.
Grant missed the entire 2009 season with emergency knee surgery. He returned to play 15 out of the Knighthawks 16 games in 2010, but they did not make the playoffs after falling to the Washington Stealth in the last game of the season.
In the MLL, Grant was a member of the Rochester Rattlers in their inaugural season. He finished second in the league with 59 points, and won offensive player of the year.
He skipped the 2002-2004 seasons, but returned to the Rattlers in 2005. In 2007, he broke the single season points record with 71, and was again named offensive player of the year, and also the MVP. He again led the league in scoring in 2008, and was again names MVP.
With the Rattlers folded, Grant now plays on the Toronto Nationals. He has been to two championship games, one in Rochester and one in Toronto.
Grant also played in the Ontario Lacrosse Association, with the Peterbourogh Lakers in the junior OLA. He was the league's top scorer in 1993, 1994, and 1995, as well as MVP in 1994. In 1995, Grant moved up to Major Series Lacrosse, also with the Lakers, and won the Rookie of the Year award. In 2000, he won the league's MVP. In 2002 and 2003, Grant moved to the Western Lacrosse Association, with the Coquitlam Adanacs.
Grant returned to Peterbourough in 2005, and led his team to the Mann Cup Championship. He also won the championship with the Lakers in 2006 and 2007. Grant surprisingly played in 2009, after his knee surgery that kept out of the Knighthawks lineup. In 2010, the Lakers won the championship again.
Grant is about to write a whole new chapter to his lacrosse legacy in Colorado now, hoping to lead the Mammoth the the playoffs, and the Champions Cup.
Grant was originally a third round pick for the Buffalo Bandits in 1995, but opted not to sign and to stay in college. He re-entered the draft four years later in 1999, and was selected first overall by the Rochester Knighthawks, and was named rookie of the year. In the next three years in Rochester, Grant scored 95, 105, and 99 points. The year where he scored 105 came in a 14 game season, and the year he scored 95 was in 12 games.
The next season, 2004, Grant was injured most of the year and was only able to score 35 points in 5 games.
In 2007, Grant set a National Lacrosse league record with 15 points in a single game in a win over the New York Titans. Grant was also named MVP that season, as well as Champions Cup MVP with the championship in Rochester. The record does not hold, as Mark Steenhius of the Buffalo Bandits broke it.
Grant missed the entire 2009 season with emergency knee surgery. He returned to play 15 out of the Knighthawks 16 games in 2010, but they did not make the playoffs after falling to the Washington Stealth in the last game of the season.
In the MLL, Grant was a member of the Rochester Rattlers in their inaugural season. He finished second in the league with 59 points, and won offensive player of the year.
He skipped the 2002-2004 seasons, but returned to the Rattlers in 2005. In 2007, he broke the single season points record with 71, and was again named offensive player of the year, and also the MVP. He again led the league in scoring in 2008, and was again names MVP.
With the Rattlers folded, Grant now plays on the Toronto Nationals. He has been to two championship games, one in Rochester and one in Toronto.
Grant also played in the Ontario Lacrosse Association, with the Peterbourogh Lakers in the junior OLA. He was the league's top scorer in 1993, 1994, and 1995, as well as MVP in 1994. In 1995, Grant moved up to Major Series Lacrosse, also with the Lakers, and won the Rookie of the Year award. In 2000, he won the league's MVP. In 2002 and 2003, Grant moved to the Western Lacrosse Association, with the Coquitlam Adanacs.
Grant returned to Peterbourough in 2005, and led his team to the Mann Cup Championship. He also won the championship with the Lakers in 2006 and 2007. Grant surprisingly played in 2009, after his knee surgery that kept out of the Knighthawks lineup. In 2010, the Lakers won the championship again.
Grant is about to write a whole new chapter to his lacrosse legacy in Colorado now, hoping to lead the Mammoth the the playoffs, and the Champions Cup.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Player Preview: Matt Vinc
I was planing on Mark Steenhius this week but with all the commotion of the Vinc trade, I'm going to go with him this week. So, first let's take a look at his career.
Vinc played high school lacrosse with Billy Dee Smith and Craig Conn, and was the sixth overall pick in the 2005 draft by the San Jose Stealth. In 2006, Vinc played in only four games for the Stealth, with a 6.34 GAA.
In the 2006 New York Titans expansion draft, Vinc was selected. He became the starting goaltender in 2007.
In 2008, he put up a 11.35 GAA, his career high. In 2009, he led the Titans to 10-6, and a three way tie with Buffalo and Boston. The Titans, however, got first place due to tiebreakers.
In the eastern conference championship, Vinc held Buffalo to three goals, saving 41 of 44 shots to lead New York into the National Lacrosse League championship. New York went on to lose to the Calgary Roughnecks.
The next season to franchise moved to Orlando to become the Orlando Titans. Orlando made it to the eastern conference final, to lose to Toronto.
Vinc won goaltender of the year, and was selected by the Colorado Mammoth with the first overall pick in the dispersal.
Vinc was later traded to the Rochester Knighthawks for John Grant and Mac Allen. This trade did not make sense for some people, but Vinc is a teacher in Ontario, and did not want to play on the west coast.
However, you still wonder why Colorado selected him when Casey Powell was next.
Vinc played high school lacrosse with Billy Dee Smith and Craig Conn, and was the sixth overall pick in the 2005 draft by the San Jose Stealth. In 2006, Vinc played in only four games for the Stealth, with a 6.34 GAA.
In the 2006 New York Titans expansion draft, Vinc was selected. He became the starting goaltender in 2007.
In 2008, he put up a 11.35 GAA, his career high. In 2009, he led the Titans to 10-6, and a three way tie with Buffalo and Boston. The Titans, however, got first place due to tiebreakers.
In the eastern conference championship, Vinc held Buffalo to three goals, saving 41 of 44 shots to lead New York into the National Lacrosse League championship. New York went on to lose to the Calgary Roughnecks.
The next season to franchise moved to Orlando to become the Orlando Titans. Orlando made it to the eastern conference final, to lose to Toronto.
Vinc won goaltender of the year, and was selected by the Colorado Mammoth with the first overall pick in the dispersal.
Vinc was later traded to the Rochester Knighthawks for John Grant and Mac Allen. This trade did not make sense for some people, but Vinc is a teacher in Ontario, and did not want to play on the west coast.
However, you still wonder why Colorado selected him when Casey Powell was next.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Mammoth trade Vinc
The Colorado Mammoth have traded Orlando Titans dispersal pick Matt Vinc and forward Matt Zash to the Rochester Knighthawks for John Grant and Mac Allen, reported by NLLInsider.
Vinc had been the subject of trade rumors for a few weeks, but I still cannot understand why. The Mammoth committed to Vinc in the dispersal with the #1 overall pick, when last year's MVP Casey Powell went second. I also do not understand Rochester wanting Vinc, as they have recently signed Pat O'Toole to an extension.
Grant and Allen will supply Colorado with a lot of offense, but Colorado's issue last season was not scoring, but goaltending.
There were also rumors of Grant being traded to Buffalo for rookie defenseman Travis Irving. Colorado has acquired Matt King from Calgary, but Colorado needed an elite goaltender in Vinc.
There is also the possibility of Rochester trading Vinc somewhere else with a bigger deal in the works as well.
This was probably not the greatest deal for both parties. Rochester loses their points leader in Grant, but Colorado loses their goaltender. But Colorado may have come out with the better deal after acquiring King.
More to come.
Vinc had been the subject of trade rumors for a few weeks, but I still cannot understand why. The Mammoth committed to Vinc in the dispersal with the #1 overall pick, when last year's MVP Casey Powell went second. I also do not understand Rochester wanting Vinc, as they have recently signed Pat O'Toole to an extension.
Grant and Allen will supply Colorado with a lot of offense, but Colorado's issue last season was not scoring, but goaltending.
There were also rumors of Grant being traded to Buffalo for rookie defenseman Travis Irving. Colorado has acquired Matt King from Calgary, but Colorado needed an elite goaltender in Vinc.
There is also the possibility of Rochester trading Vinc somewhere else with a bigger deal in the works as well.
This was probably not the greatest deal for both parties. Rochester loses their points leader in Grant, but Colorado loses their goaltender. But Colorado may have come out with the better deal after acquiring King.
More to come.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
NLL Preview: Rochester Knighthawks
(Photo credit: NLL.com)
The Knigthawks have missed the post season twice in a row now, including last year in heart breaking fashion. With Boston losing to Buffalo on the final week of the season, Buffalo would just have to beat Washington, who has nothing else to play for. But they lost, and finished 7-9. On the positive side, Rochester now has the number one overall pick in Cody Jaimeson and a new head coach. So now in the final NLL Preview, here are the Knighthawks.
As we always do, let's look at their leading scorers. Last season Rochester's top scorer was ranked 9th, and it was John Grant with 83 points. That was his least amount of points since 2004, when he played only five games. The previous three years he had scored 92, 111, and 97 points. Is this the first signs on decline for Grant?
Rochester's next top scorer is Shawn Williams, who ranked 20th in the NLL with 69 points. This was also a low scoring year for Williams, who averaged 82 goals with Rochester. Williams had spent the start of his career in Toronto and then Buffalo, and scored 77 goals in his first real chance to start. He took off when he went to Rochester, scoring over 100 points twice. But he may be on the decline too, like Grant, at age 36.
We are going to look at two more Knighthawks scorers; Shawn Evans and Craig Point. Point has been in the league for four years, and two with the Knighthawks. In his two years with Rochester he has 46 and 28 points, and his career high61 in his first year in Minnesota. He played only ten games the year he scored 28 points, so maybe he can build on next year to reach his full potential.
Shawn Evans has played in Rochester since 2006, scoring his carer high in points two years ago at 79. Last year he may have took a step back, scoring only 45 points, his career low other than his rookie season. The Knighthawks look for Evans to step up this season, and be what they thought he would.
The goaltenders. Pat O'Toole started most of the games for Rochester, and finished with a 11.26 GAA. Rochester's backup, Aaron Bold, did get into every game, but had 313:00 minutes compared to O'Toole's 650:21. Bold's 11.12 GAA actually ranks ahead of O'Toole. Bold was acquired from the Stealth before last season. In San Jose, his best season came in 2008 when he got into sixteen games and put up a GAA og 10.29. O'Toole has been a Knighthawk since 1999. His best year was in 2003, when he put up a 10.21 GAA.
What is my prediction for Rochester? I think they make the playoffs. They finish as the third seed. We didn't even talk about Cody Jaimeson, the Knigthhawk's first overall pick. Thank you for reading the NLL Preview Series!
The Knigthawks have missed the post season twice in a row now, including last year in heart breaking fashion. With Boston losing to Buffalo on the final week of the season, Buffalo would just have to beat Washington, who has nothing else to play for. But they lost, and finished 7-9. On the positive side, Rochester now has the number one overall pick in Cody Jaimeson and a new head coach. So now in the final NLL Preview, here are the Knighthawks.
As we always do, let's look at their leading scorers. Last season Rochester's top scorer was ranked 9th, and it was John Grant with 83 points. That was his least amount of points since 2004, when he played only five games. The previous three years he had scored 92, 111, and 97 points. Is this the first signs on decline for Grant?
Rochester's next top scorer is Shawn Williams, who ranked 20th in the NLL with 69 points. This was also a low scoring year for Williams, who averaged 82 goals with Rochester. Williams had spent the start of his career in Toronto and then Buffalo, and scored 77 goals in his first real chance to start. He took off when he went to Rochester, scoring over 100 points twice. But he may be on the decline too, like Grant, at age 36.
We are going to look at two more Knighthawks scorers; Shawn Evans and Craig Point. Point has been in the league for four years, and two with the Knighthawks. In his two years with Rochester he has 46 and 28 points, and his career high61 in his first year in Minnesota. He played only ten games the year he scored 28 points, so maybe he can build on next year to reach his full potential.
Shawn Evans has played in Rochester since 2006, scoring his carer high in points two years ago at 79. Last year he may have took a step back, scoring only 45 points, his career low other than his rookie season. The Knighthawks look for Evans to step up this season, and be what they thought he would.
The goaltenders. Pat O'Toole started most of the games for Rochester, and finished with a 11.26 GAA. Rochester's backup, Aaron Bold, did get into every game, but had 313:00 minutes compared to O'Toole's 650:21. Bold's 11.12 GAA actually ranks ahead of O'Toole. Bold was acquired from the Stealth before last season. In San Jose, his best season came in 2008 when he got into sixteen games and put up a GAA og 10.29. O'Toole has been a Knighthawk since 1999. His best year was in 2003, when he put up a 10.21 GAA.
What is my prediction for Rochester? I think they make the playoffs. They finish as the third seed. We didn't even talk about Cody Jaimeson, the Knigthhawk's first overall pick. Thank you for reading the NLL Preview Series!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
NLL Preview Buffalo Bandits
The Bandits finished 8-8 last season, making the playoffs as the third seed. They lost to the eventual east champions Toronto Rock in the first round. The Bandits made the playoffs on the last day of the season, beating the Boston Blazers to clinch.
Buffalo had a terrific year from Mark Steenhius, who finished fourth in the league in scoring with 90 points and 36 goals. Steenhius was looking to prove himself in elite player in this league, scoring 101 goals the previous season. Steenhius was also second in the league with 175 shots on goal, second to only John Grant.
Buffalo's next leading goal scorer was 37th in the league, and it was the 42 year old John Tavares. Tavares, a Bandit since 1992 and a future hall of famer, scored 49 points and was second on the team. He scored 21 goals and 28 assits.
Buffalo's next three top scorers were Mike Accursi, Kevin Dostie, and Brett Bucktooth. Buffalo was third in the East in goals scored, scoring more than Boston, Rochester, and Philadelphia. But their goals again est was also third in the east with 170 GA. One of their goaltenders, Mike Thompson, had a 9.92 GAA. The other two goaltenders for the Bandits, Ken Montour and Angus Goodleaf, had 10.89 and 10.75 GAAs, respectively.
Buffalo played more overtime games than anyone last season in the east, winning two and losing one. Their wins were a thrilling win over Toronto, and a nailbaiter in Boston. Their loss came vs Colorado. Buffalo had only one winning streak all season, and that was a three game winning streak vs Orlando, Toronto and Boston.
Buffalo has made some good acquisitions this offseason. They signed former Boston Blazer Brenden Thenhaus and Kyle Clancy, who was the Bandits first round pick last season. Buffalo also drafted Travis Irving with their ninth overall pick, and also drafted Ben McCollough.
Buffalo is going to have a tough time in the east this season. Orlando is gone, but Toronto is still there and Boston is much improved. The Bandits will make the playoffs, but probably no higher than a third seed. Buffalo will now be three years removed from their 2008 championship, and need to start a whole new dynasty this season.
Next On Previews: Rochester Knighthawks
Buffalo had a terrific year from Mark Steenhius, who finished fourth in the league in scoring with 90 points and 36 goals. Steenhius was looking to prove himself in elite player in this league, scoring 101 goals the previous season. Steenhius was also second in the league with 175 shots on goal, second to only John Grant.
Buffalo's next leading goal scorer was 37th in the league, and it was the 42 year old John Tavares. Tavares, a Bandit since 1992 and a future hall of famer, scored 49 points and was second on the team. He scored 21 goals and 28 assits.
Buffalo's next three top scorers were Mike Accursi, Kevin Dostie, and Brett Bucktooth. Buffalo was third in the East in goals scored, scoring more than Boston, Rochester, and Philadelphia. But their goals again est was also third in the east with 170 GA. One of their goaltenders, Mike Thompson, had a 9.92 GAA. The other two goaltenders for the Bandits, Ken Montour and Angus Goodleaf, had 10.89 and 10.75 GAAs, respectively.
Buffalo played more overtime games than anyone last season in the east, winning two and losing one. Their wins were a thrilling win over Toronto, and a nailbaiter in Boston. Their loss came vs Colorado. Buffalo had only one winning streak all season, and that was a three game winning streak vs Orlando, Toronto and Boston.
Buffalo has made some good acquisitions this offseason. They signed former Boston Blazer Brenden Thenhaus and Kyle Clancy, who was the Bandits first round pick last season. Buffalo also drafted Travis Irving with their ninth overall pick, and also drafted Ben McCollough.
Buffalo is going to have a tough time in the east this season. Orlando is gone, but Toronto is still there and Boston is much improved. The Bandits will make the playoffs, but probably no higher than a third seed. Buffalo will now be three years removed from their 2008 championship, and need to start a whole new dynasty this season.
Next On Previews: Rochester Knighthawks
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Boston Blazers Preview
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 Boston Blazers bounced back last season from a devastating defeat to the Buffalo Bandits in the playoffs. They made the playoffs on the final day of the season, beating out the Rochester Knighthawks, but they barely backed in. They lost to Buffalo that night and needed Washington to defeat Rochester. Lucky for them, they did. But it once again proved Boston's inconsistencies with a season full of them.
Boston had one issue all season long; If Dan Dawson was shut down, so were the Blazers. They had some good players in Daryl Veltman and they went out and acquired Mat Giles, but it was not enough. They relied on Dawson and their goaltender Anthony Cosmo to get it done.
Boston finished fourth in the east and had to travel to Orlando for their playoff showdown. They lost similarly to the rest of their regular season: They had a lead, but Orlando adjusted to shutting down Boston's top scorer. Well, the Blazers were full aware of this flaw and used a golden opportunity to fix it.
The Blazers have lucked out on dispersal drafts their entire existence, having the number one pick to steal Dawson from Arizona and Cosmo from Chicago. This year they had a number two pick for the Orlando Titan's dispersal, and they drafted league MVP Casey Powell. Now with Dawson and Powell on offense, that was sure to fix a flawed offense. But even better, Boston made one of the bigger blockbusters of the last few years and acquired Josh Sanderson, the 2009 playoffs MVP. Similar to the Boston Celtics big three, the Blazers look to take this opportunity and win the whole thing.
With the best team in the east, Orlando, out of the league, their only real competition will be Toronto and maybe Buffalo might be a surprise team. But Boston has a real golden opportunity to make this their year.
The Boston Blazers bounced back last season from a devastating defeat to the Buffalo Bandits in the playoffs. They made the playoffs on the final day of the season, beating out the Rochester Knighthawks, but they barely backed in. They lost to Buffalo that night and needed Washington to defeat Rochester. Lucky for them, they did. But it once again proved Boston's inconsistencies with a season full of them.
Boston had one issue all season long; If Dan Dawson was shut down, so were the Blazers. They had some good players in Daryl Veltman and they went out and acquired Mat Giles, but it was not enough. They relied on Dawson and their goaltender Anthony Cosmo to get it done.
Boston finished fourth in the east and had to travel to Orlando for their playoff showdown. They lost similarly to the rest of their regular season: They had a lead, but Orlando adjusted to shutting down Boston's top scorer. Well, the Blazers were full aware of this flaw and used a golden opportunity to fix it.
The Blazers have lucked out on dispersal drafts their entire existence, having the number one pick to steal Dawson from Arizona and Cosmo from Chicago. This year they had a number two pick for the Orlando Titan's dispersal, and they drafted league MVP Casey Powell. Now with Dawson and Powell on offense, that was sure to fix a flawed offense. But even better, Boston made one of the bigger blockbusters of the last few years and acquired Josh Sanderson, the 2009 playoffs MVP. Similar to the Boston Celtics big three, the Blazers look to take this opportunity and win the whole thing.
With the best team in the east, Orlando, out of the league, their only real competition will be Toronto and maybe Buffalo might be a surprise team. But Boston has a real golden opportunity to make this their year.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Lax Links- 7/19
With the FIL currently in progress, here are your Lax Links
Team Canada blows out Germany- NLL Insider
Are the Knighthawks looking to trade for Snider?- NLL Insider
The Iroquois non-participation is a sad day for lacrosse- Inside Lacrosse
Chris Sanderson's path back into lacrosse- Lax United
Team Canada blows out Germany- NLL Insider
Are the Knighthawks looking to trade for Snider?- NLL Insider
The Iroquois non-participation is a sad day for lacrosse- Inside Lacrosse
Chris Sanderson's path back into lacrosse- Lax United
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Paul Gait to the front office, K'Hawks search for coach begins
The Rochester Knighthawks promoted Paul Gait to Vice President of Lacrosse Operations today, emptying the head coaching position. The Knighthawks have had two disappointing years in a row, finishing 7-9 and missing the playoffs.
The K'Hawks now begin their search for a head coach. There was rumors of a fit with Darris Kilgour, but he recently signed an extension with the Buffalo Bandits. Dave Huntley was let go of the very disappointing Philadelphia Wings last week, and he may be an option.
A name that might be an option for them is Jamie Batley. He currently coaches the Perterbourogh Lakers of the MSL and coaches seven current Knighthawks players. He last coached the Toronto Rock and Chicago Shamrox in the NLL.
“Paul has spent his whole life in the lacrosse business as a player, coach and manufacturer,” Knighthawks owner Curt Styres said in a statement. “He has a lot to offer the sport and will help us with the front office in Rochester.”
The K'Hawks now begin their search for a head coach. There was rumors of a fit with Darris Kilgour, but he recently signed an extension with the Buffalo Bandits. Dave Huntley was let go of the very disappointing Philadelphia Wings last week, and he may be an option.
A name that might be an option for them is Jamie Batley. He currently coaches the Perterbourogh Lakers of the MSL and coaches seven current Knighthawks players. He last coached the Toronto Rock and Chicago Shamrox in the NLL.
“Paul has spent his whole life in the lacrosse business as a player, coach and manufacturer,” Knighthawks owner Curt Styres said in a statement. “He has a lot to offer the sport and will help us with the front office in Rochester.”
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Darris Kilgour Extends Contract
Longtime Buffalo Bandits coach Darris Kilgour has signed a three year deal to stay in Buffalo through the 2013 season. Kilgour has coached the Bandits since 2003, the year he was also named coach of the year.
Last off-season Kilgour stepped down as team GM to Derek Graham so he could focus on coaching only. There was speculation of him going for the Rochester Knighthawks job with the inevitable acquisition of Cody Jaimeson in this years draft.
Kilgour has led the Bandits to eight straight playoffs appearances and a championship in 2008. the Bandits 12 win season in 2003 is the most in their history, the year he was named head coach. Kilgour began his coaching career with the Washington Power from 2000-2002. Kilgour was also a three time NLL all-star, and the Bandits first ever draft pick in 1992.
Last off-season Kilgour stepped down as team GM to Derek Graham so he could focus on coaching only. There was speculation of him going for the Rochester Knighthawks job with the inevitable acquisition of Cody Jaimeson in this years draft.
Kilgour has led the Bandits to eight straight playoffs appearances and a championship in 2008. the Bandits 12 win season in 2003 is the most in their history, the year he was named head coach. Kilgour began his coaching career with the Washington Power from 2000-2002. Kilgour was also a three time NLL all-star, and the Bandits first ever draft pick in 1992.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Prospect Previews: Cody Jaimeson
We all know the Rochester Knighthawks will use their first round pick on Syracuse star Cody Jaimeson. But why, and what exactly is his potential? I'm here to tell you.
Jaimeson won a national championship with Syracuse in 2009, but he also plays Major Series Lacrosse. Now what is that? It is a box lacrosse league with six teams, and they play the winner of the Western lacrosse Association for the championship every year.
Jaimeson played for the Onondaga Community College Lazers in his first year, leading them to an undefeated season and a national championship. He transferred to Syracuse in 2008. He was expected to enter the draft last year but did not. He was linked to the Knighthawks even back then, and with the 'Hawks holding possession of the #1 pick, (Thanks to a trade with Colorado) it looks like Jaimeson will be a K'Hawk.
Jaimeson was rookie of the year and MVP in his first year in the MSL, which was 2008. He easily lead the league in scoring with 96 points, and is considered the best #1 pick since Brodie Merril in 2005. Another reason that Jaimeson has been connected with the Knighthawks is Gary Gait, a Knighthawks player who won a championship at Syracuse and won MVP and ROY in his first year of the MSL.
Next up in our Prospect Previews: Curtis Dickson
Jaimeson won a national championship with Syracuse in 2009, but he also plays Major Series Lacrosse. Now what is that? It is a box lacrosse league with six teams, and they play the winner of the Western lacrosse Association for the championship every year.
Jaimeson played for the Onondaga Community College Lazers in his first year, leading them to an undefeated season and a national championship. He transferred to Syracuse in 2008. He was expected to enter the draft last year but did not. He was linked to the Knighthawks even back then, and with the 'Hawks holding possession of the #1 pick, (Thanks to a trade with Colorado) it looks like Jaimeson will be a K'Hawk.
Jaimeson was rookie of the year and MVP in his first year in the MSL, which was 2008. He easily lead the league in scoring with 96 points, and is considered the best #1 pick since Brodie Merril in 2005. Another reason that Jaimeson has been connected with the Knighthawks is Gary Gait, a Knighthawks player who won a championship at Syracuse and won MVP and ROY in his first year of the MSL.
Next up in our Prospect Previews: Curtis Dickson
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!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
NLL Game Reveiws
Last night five NLL games took place. The Orlando Titans beat the Boston Blazers, 13-10, the Toronto Rock beat the Philadelphia Wings, 13-6, the Calgary Roughnecks beat the Rochester Knighthawks, 11-9, The Edmonton Rush beat the Minnesota Swarm, 14-13, and the Colorado Mammoth beat the Buffalo Bandits, 12-11. Two games went to overtime, with the Rush and Mammoth prevailing. Here are the notes from a fun night in the NLL.
Current Standings after this weekend:
East:
Orlando 8-4 (4 games remaining)
Toronto 8-6 (2) 1 game back
Boston 6-7 (3) 2.5
Buffalo 6-7 (3) 2.5
Rochester 5-7 (4) 3
Philadelphia 4-9 (3) 4.5
Toronto swept their weekend, which got them out of their six game funk. They beat Calgary and Philadelphia to move ahead of Boston and one game behind the Titans. Orlando won to extend their lead over Boston. Buffalo lost in OT to the lowly Mammoth, missing an opportunity to move up in the standings. With Rochester's loss, they themselves missed an opportunity with both Boston and Buffalo losing.
West:
Washington* 9-4 (3 games remaining)
Edmonton* 9-4 (3)
Calgary 7-6 (3) 2
Minnesota 5-7 (4) 3.5
Colorado (4) 5.5
Colorado won on a night that Minnesota lost, and now move two games behind them. Minnesota and Colorado both have four games remaining, that's a game in hand over Edmonton and Washington. The Swarm losing does not help them, as they would have had a chance to clinch. Calgary split their weekend, winning last night in Rochester. Edmonton tied Washington for first place in the West.
Notes: *Dan Dawson (5) scored half of the Blazers goals himself.
* The Rush tie the Stealth for first place.
* Alex Gajic continued his tear with four goals for the Mammoth.
* Colorado won for the first time in seven games.
* The Blazers scored only one goal in the fourth quarter.
* Philadelphia did not score in the first quarter.
* The Knighthawks have lost four staright home games.
* The next action in the NLL is Friday when the Knighthawks go to Minnesota, and the Mammoth take on the Rush.
Current Standings after this weekend:
East:
Orlando 8-4 (4 games remaining)
Toronto 8-6 (2) 1 game back
Boston 6-7 (3) 2.5
Buffalo 6-7 (3) 2.5
Rochester 5-7 (4) 3
Philadelphia 4-9 (3) 4.5
Toronto swept their weekend, which got them out of their six game funk. They beat Calgary and Philadelphia to move ahead of Boston and one game behind the Titans. Orlando won to extend their lead over Boston. Buffalo lost in OT to the lowly Mammoth, missing an opportunity to move up in the standings. With Rochester's loss, they themselves missed an opportunity with both Boston and Buffalo losing.
West:
Washington* 9-4 (3 games remaining)
Edmonton* 9-4 (3)
Calgary 7-6 (3) 2
Minnesota 5-7 (4) 3.5
Colorado (4) 5.5
Colorado won on a night that Minnesota lost, and now move two games behind them. Minnesota and Colorado both have four games remaining, that's a game in hand over Edmonton and Washington. The Swarm losing does not help them, as they would have had a chance to clinch. Calgary split their weekend, winning last night in Rochester. Edmonton tied Washington for first place in the West.
Notes: *Dan Dawson (5) scored half of the Blazers goals himself.
* The Rush tie the Stealth for first place.
* Alex Gajic continued his tear with four goals for the Mammoth.
* Colorado won for the first time in seven games.
* The Blazers scored only one goal in the fourth quarter.
* Philadelphia did not score in the first quarter.
* The Knighthawks have lost four staright home games.
* The next action in the NLL is Friday when the Knighthawks go to Minnesota, and the Mammoth take on the Rush.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
NLL Game Preview: Calgary @ Rochester
photo credit: NLL.com 
Preview: The Roughnecks continue their Eastern Division road trip tonight when they take on the Rochester Knighthawks. Calgary lost to Toronto last night, but with a win and Colorado loss they can clinch a playoff spot. Meanwhile Rochester tries to fight it's way into the playoffs, but it will not be easy with Toronto winning and the Bandits playing the Mammoth tonight.
Leading Goal Scorer: Calgary: Josh Sanderson, 80 pts
Rochester: John Grant, 55 pts
Goaltender: Calgary: Mike Poulin, 9.56 GAA, 7.84 S%
Rochester: Pat O'Toole, 10.28 GAA, .773 S%
Injuries: Calgary: None
Rochester: None
Notes: * This is Calgary's second game of the weekend
* Rochester is half a game behind Boston and Buffalo for a playoff spot. With a win and Boston or Buffalo loss, the Knighthawks could be back in the playoff picture.
* Mike Poulin or Matt King could get the start for the Roughnecks
* The game is in BlueCross Arena
* The game can be seen at NLL.com Network
Preview: The Roughnecks continue their Eastern Division road trip tonight when they take on the Rochester Knighthawks. Calgary lost to Toronto last night, but with a win and Colorado loss they can clinch a playoff spot. Meanwhile Rochester tries to fight it's way into the playoffs, but it will not be easy with Toronto winning and the Bandits playing the Mammoth tonight.
Leading Goal Scorer: Calgary: Josh Sanderson, 80 pts
Rochester: John Grant, 55 pts
Goaltender: Calgary: Mike Poulin, 9.56 GAA, 7.84 S%
Rochester: Pat O'Toole, 10.28 GAA, .773 S%
Injuries: Calgary: None
Rochester: None
Notes: * This is Calgary's second game of the weekend
* Rochester is half a game behind Boston and Buffalo for a playoff spot. With a win and Boston or Buffalo loss, the Knighthawks could be back in the playoff picture.
* Mike Poulin or Matt King could get the start for the Roughnecks
* The game is in BlueCross Arena
* The game can be seen at NLL.com Network
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