NLL Week 14: The Road to May Heats Up with Key Matchups and Rising Stars

The March to May is On: NLL Week 14 Preview

The National Lacrosse League (NLL) is heating up as Week 14 brings some of the most anticipated matchups of the season. With the postseason in sight, teams are battling fiercely to secure their spots. Here’s what to watch as the action unfolds on ESPN+.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Georgia Swarm at Ottawa Black Bears (Friday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m. ET) The Swarm, led by the dynamic Lyle Thompson, are out for revenge after a 14-10 loss to the Black Bears in January. Jeff Teat, who had a standout performance in their last encounter with three goals and six assists, will be a key player for Ottawa.

• Buffalo Bandits at Saskatchewan Rush (Saturday, March 1, 8 p.m. ET) The top two teams in the league face off in what promises to be a thrilling game. The Rush are on a five-game winning streak, but the Bandits, with just one loss this season, are not to be underestimated. Josh Byrne’s 11-point performance in their last meeting was a highlight.

• Calgary Roughnecks at Colorado Mammoth (Saturday, March 1, 9 p.m. ET) The Roughnecks recently made a significant trade, acquiring reigning NLL Goalie of the Year Nick Rose. This game will test if Rose can be the difference-maker as Calgary aims to climb the standings.

Rising Stars

• Lyle Thompson (Georgia Swarm): Known for his incredible agility and scoring ability, Thompson is a player to watch. His five goals and four assists in the last game against Ottawa were pivotal.

• Jeff Teat (Ottawa Black Bears): With a knack for both scoring and setting up goals, Teat is a cornerstone of the Black Bears' offense. His nine-point performance in January’s game was a testament to his skill.

Standings and Playoff Race

As the season progresses, every game becomes crucial. Teams like the Halifax Thunderbirds, who have won four straight, are making significant moves up the ladder. Randy Staats has been instrumental for Halifax, with 42 points in the last seven games.

Conclusion

NLL Week 14 is packed with excitement, from key player matchups to strategic trades. As the march to May continues, fans can expect nothing short of high-octane lacrosse action. Don’t miss out—stream all the games on ESPN+.