Justin Ivey, Co-Editor
Lacrosse is Awesome©
Location: Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium, Chicago, IL
After taking a week off for the PLL and WLL All-Star festivities, Justin’s Picks is back as we officially enter the second half of the season. If the first half has taught us anything, it’s that predicting professional lacrosse is a lot harder than it looks. Some weekends have made me look like a genius, while others have made me wonder if I should start picking winners by flipping a coin. The good news is the playoff picture is beginning to take shape, teams are settling into their identities, and every game suddenly carries a little more weight. The Redwoods continue to justify my early-season confidence, Brennan O’Neill has been on an absolute tear, and several teams are fighting to prove they’re legitimate championship contenders. With meaningful lacrosse ahead and plenty of opportunities for redemption, let’s see if the second half of the season is where Justin’s Picks finally catches fire.
Season Stats
PLL – 9-14
WLL – 0-5
Worst Prediction from Week 6:
Archers over Waterdogs. This one hurt. As predicted, it was a gritty, fast-paced game, but CJ Kirst lit up the scoreboard and swayed Philadelphia to the win
Best Prediction from Week 6:
Denver over Maryland. O’Neill is finding his stride!
Friday, July 10
Philadelphia Waterdogs vs. California Redwoods – 6:30 PM EDT
Winner: Philadelphia Waterdogs
I’m taking Philadelphia in the opener because the Waterdogs feel like a team starting to find their rhythm at exactly the right time. California has been one of the most consistent teams in the league, and I’ve been on the Redwoods bandwagon plenty this season, but this matchup feels like a real test. The Waterdogs have the kind of offensive firepower that can turn a close game quickly, especially with CJ Kirst continuing to emerge as one of the most dangerous scorers in the league. If Philadelphia can push tempo, win the middle of the field, and force California into a faster game than it wants, I think the Waterdogs have enough juice to pull it out. This one should be tight, but I’m giving the edge to Philly to open the weekend with a statement win.
Utah Archers vs. New York Atlas – 9:00 PM EDT
Winner: New York Atlas
I’m taking the Atlas in what I expect to be one of the closest games of the weekend. New York has shown a lot of resilience over the past few weeks, proving it can compete even after losing Jeff Teat for the season. Connor Shellenberger has embraced the role of offensive leader, and the Atlas have responded by playing with confidence and finding contributions throughout the lineup. Utah remains one of the league’s most disciplined and experienced teams, so this won’t come easy, but the Archers have struggled to consistently put together complete performances this season. I think this game comes down to a handful of key possessions in the fourth quarter, and I’m betting the Atlas make one more play when it matters most to steal a hard-fought victory.
Saturday, July 11
Denver Outlaws vs. Boston Cannons – 2:00 PM EDT
Winner: Denver Outlaws
I’m taking the Outlaws because I simply don’t think anyone has an answer for Denver’s offense right now. Brennan O’Neill has been playing at an MVP level, and every week he seems to find another gear. What makes the Outlaws so dangerous, though, is that O’Neill isn’t doing it alone. Denver can roll out the “Tewaaraton Four”—Brennan O’Neill (2023), Logan Wisnauskas (2022), Jared Bernhardt (2021), and Pat Kavanagh (2024)—giving them four recent winners of college lacrosse’s highest individual honor on one roster. That’s an incredible amount of talent for any defense to contain. Boston has shown flashes of strong play, but I think Denver’s offensive depth eventually becomes too much to handle. If O’Neill continues his hot streak, I expect the Outlaws to pull away in the second half and win this one decisively.
Maryland Charm vs. New York Charging – 7:00 PM EDT
Winner: Maryland Charm
I’m taking the Charm in this matchup because I think they’re due for a bounce-back performance. Maryland has leaned on the dynamic duo of Sam Apuzzo and Ally Kennedy this season, with both consistently leading the offense and creating scoring chances all over the field. On the other side, the Charging are fueled by Izzy Scane, who remains one of the league’s most dangerous finishers, along with Emily Hawryschuk, who has been a steady offensive presence throughout the season. With this much star power, goals shouldn’t be hard to come by, but I think Maryland finds a way to make a few more key plays in crunch time. Expect a close game, but I’m giving the edge to the Charm.
Maryland Whipsnakes vs. Carolina Chaos – 9:30 PM EDT
Winner: Maryland Whipsnakes
I’m taking the Whipsnakes in this matchup, but don’t be surprised if Blaze Riorden is the biggest reason this game stays close. Riorden remains one of the best goalies in the world, and I expect him to put together another highlight-filled performance that keeps Carolina within striking distance all game long. The difference, though, is Maryland’s offensive depth and veteran leadership. Joey Spallina has continued to grow into his role, while veteran Rob Pannell has provided the steady presence and playmaking ability that keeps the Whipsnakes’ offense moving. Add in TJ Malone and the rest of Maryland’s balanced attack, and it’s simply too many weapons to hold down for four quarters. Riorden will make plenty of spectacular saves, but I think Maryland eventually breaks through enough times to escape with a hard-fought victory.