The first-ever PLL official free agency period began this past week, and rosters have altered extremely. Some of the best players in the league changed teams, and we will see a completely different team this season.
Archers Players Disappear
In one of the biggest turn of events in league history, the incredibly talented Archers attack line fades away completely. Will Manny and Marcus Holman have changed teams, and they should value their new franchises to a new extent.
Will Manny signed with the Whipsnakes through 2024, which is an incredible pickup. Manny was considered at the top of MVP conversations for a good portion of the year and is top 10 in all-time scoring in professional lacrosse. Pairing him with Matt Rambo and Zed Williams, the Whipsnakes may have the most talented offense in lacrosse.
The other attackman that jumped the ship was Marcus Holman. He made waves in the league, signing with the last-place Cannons through 2023. His presence will completely shit the trajectory of the offense, something for which they relied on Lyle Thompson. This offense may bring the team to another level.
Another Archer signed with the Cannons, and it is a massive pickup. Goalie Adam Ghitelman led the Archers defensive charge last year, and he makes his way to the Cannons. He was behind Nick Marrocco in save percentage, making a great goalie battle versus Ghitelman.
Midfield Mania
Two of the best midfielders in the sport found new homes this offseason. Those two players are Mac O’Keefe and Ryan Tierney. These two players were some of the best offensive midfielders in the PLL.
O’Keefe was a force for the Chaos, putting up great statistics. His 16 points on nine goals and two assists were impressive, but his two two-point shots are even more so. He has now found his way to the Archers and will be there until 2024.
Tierney was a shining spot on a disappointing Cannons offense. He only played seven games last season but scored 5 points on five goals with 36% efficiency. He should be helpful for the Redwoods, especially after they re-signed most of the roster.
Defenseman Switch Up
There are two key defensemen that changed teams, and they may be the most vital to both of their teams’ success. Star Chaos defenseman Matt Rees and all-time great Redwoods LSM Kyle Hartzell have found new homes.
Rees was incredible for the Chaos, even with only five games played. He was all over the field, athletic and smart. He has signed with the Cannons, making up for a gap in defensive efforts.
Kyle Hartzell, even at the age of 37, contributes heavily to any defense. He had 3 points, five caused turnovers, and nine ground balls in 8 games. He is also making his way to the Cannons, who have been quite possibly the most active team this offseason.
