Power Rankings: Playoff Showdown Looms in PLL’s Final Weekend

The Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) enters its final weekend of the regular season with all eight teams still mathematically in the hunt for playoff spots. As the clock ticks down, the competition heats up, with Denver, New York, and Carolina already securing their postseason berths. This weekend will feature elimination matches, making every game vital for teams like Utah and Maryland, who face uphill battles to qualify for the playoffs.

Denver and New York Lead the Pack

The Denver Outlaws continue to dominate the rankings with a current record of 7-3. After a split in home games last weekend, where they lost to Carolina but bounced back to defeat New York, they remain the team to beat. Rookie goalie Logan McNaney has been instrumental in their success, showcasing a transition offense that stands out. Their key players, including Brennan O’Neill, who leads the league with 23 goals, and Jared Bernhardt, continue to deliver impressive performances.

This weekend, the Outlaws have a bye and will next take the field in the semifinals on September 1, 2023, at Subaru Park in Philadelphia.

Meanwhile, the New York Atlas hold the second spot in the rankings with a record of 6-3. Despite a disappointing overtime loss to Denver, Connor Shellenberger is turning heads as he leads the league in points, currently standing at 39. Questions linger about the team’s endurance during critical moments, particularly in fourth-quarter situations where they’ve faltered previously.

Teams Fighting for Playoff Positions

The Boston Cannons have fought back from a losing streak to stand at 4-4, having recently secured a 13-10 victory over Philadelphia. With standout performances from Asher Nolting and Matt Campbell, the Cannons have shown potential as dark horses for the championship if they can maintain their momentum. They face the California Redwoods and Maryland Whipsnakes this weekend, providing them with a critical opportunity to solidify their postseason chances.

The Carolina Chaos made headlines by clinching a playoff berth after an impressive comeback victory against Denver. With a record of 5-4, they showcased resilience by overcoming a six-goal deficit. Rookie Owen Hiltz is making waves, averaging 4.3 points per game, while goalie Blaze Riorden has proven himself in clutch situations.

In contrast, the Philadelphia Waterdogs are struggling at 4-5, having lost their last match against Boston. Despite the promising performance of rookie CJ Kirst, who scored five goals, the team has faced challenges in goaltending and midfield production. They will need a strong showing against New York to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The California Redwoods have improved their standing, also at 4-5, after a comeback win against Maryland. Led by Dylan Molloy, who scored five goals, the Redwoods are gaining momentum and will look to capitalize on their recent success this weekend.

The Maryland Whipsnakes, currently at 3-6, are in a precarious position. They need to win their final game against Boston and hope for favorable outcomes among their competitors to maintain any chance of making the playoffs.

Finally, the Utah Archers are in a difficult situation with a record of 3-6. After two consecutive championship wins, they find themselves on the brink of missing the playoffs. They face a must-win game against Carolina this weekend, needing significant shifts in goal differential to stay in contention.

As the final weekend unfolds, fans can expect high-stakes action across the league, with playoff implications hanging in the balance. The outcomes will not only determine the playoff bracket but could also reshape the future for several teams.