Premier Lacrosse League Playoff Picture Takes Shape in Final Weekend

The final weekend of the 2025 Premier Lacrosse League regular season is set to unfold, marking a crucial moment as teams vie for playoff positions. With the Denver Outlaws, New York Atlas, and Carolina Chaos already securing their spots, three playoff berths remain up for grabs. The action commences with four games scheduled for March 15-16, 2025, featuring the Boston Cannons, who will play once each day as they fight for a postseason opportunity.

Key Matchups and Playoff Scenarios

The first game of the weekend pits the California Redwoods (4-5) against the Boston Cannons (4-4) on Friday at 6:30 p.m. ET. The Redwoods can clinch a playoff berth with a victory, or if they benefit from a loss by the Utah Archers on the same day. Notably, rookie Chris Kavanagh has emerged as a standout player, leading all rookies with 31 points and ranking first in two-pointers.

For the Cannons, clinching a playoff berth hinges on several scenarios, including a victory against the Redwoods and another win against the Maryland Whipsnakes on Saturday. Veteran Marcus Holman, currently second on the all-time PLL goals list, seeks to add to his tally, while teammate Will Manny is close behind.

Later that evening, the Carolina Chaos (5-4) will face the Utah Archers (3-6) at 9:00 p.m. ET. A victory here would secure the Chaos a place in the upcoming 2026 Lexus Championship Series. Blaze Riorden, a key player in goal for Carolina, is ranked seventh on the all-time saves list, demonstrating his importance to the team’s defensive efforts.

The Archers, on the other hand, require a win combined with a loss from California to keep their playoff hopes alive. If they fail to secure a win, they risk obtaining the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft.

Saturday’s Showdowns

Saturday’s action kicks off with the Philadelphia Waterdogs (4-5) taking on the New York Atlas (6-3) at 1:00 p.m. ET. The Waterdogs can clinch a playoff berth through a variety of outcomes, notably winning their game or relying on losses from both Maryland and Boston. Rookie sensation CJ Kirst seeks to replicate his impressive five-goal performance from the previous week.

The Atlas, leading the league in scoring with Connor Shellenberger at the helm, have their sights set on entering the elite 40-point club. Shellenberger currently leads with 39 points, while teammate Jeff Teat is also in pursuit, aiming to become the first two-time 40-point scorer in league history.

The weekend concludes with the Whipsnakes facing the Cannons at 7:00 p.m. ET. The Whipsnakes can secure their playoff position with a win, provided the Waterdogs lose or the Cannons fall to the Redwoods. Veteran player Rob Pannell is on the verge of reaching a significant milestone, needing just two assists to achieve 300 career assists in the league.

As the regular season draws to a close, the excitement and stakes have never been higher. Fans can tune in to witness the final games of the season, with implications that will shape the playoff landscape. The Premier Lacrosse League continues to captivate audiences with its blend of athleticism and strategy, making this weekend one not to miss.