The 2025 season of the Premier Lacrosse League kicks off this weekend, with a pair of matchups scheduled for Friday and an additional two games on Saturday. As fans gear up for the action, the focus shifts beyond the opening weekend to predictions about which teams will dominate the season, who will clinch the championship, and which players are poised to earn MVP and Rookie of the Year honors.
Veteran analysts Paul Carcaterra and Quint Kessenich share their insights and forecasts for the upcoming season, offering a fresh perspective on team prospects and standout players.
Predicted Top Contender in the Eastern Conference
Carcaterra: I am placing my confidence in the Boston Cannons. Since head coach Brian Holman took the helm in 2023, Boston has shown remarkable improvement. I anticipate their offensive unit to be particularly explosive this year, featuring the versatile Marcus Holman, the strategic playmaker Asher Nolting, and the promising rookie Coulter Mackesy, who is known for his left-handed shooting prowess. This offensive trio offers a balanced mix of speed, skill, and tactical intelligence, making them a formidable force.
Kessenich: My pick is the New York Atlas. Their high-powered offense, led by Jeff Teat, was impressive last season, although they seemed to peak prematurely and fell short in the semifinals. I expect them to refine their execution and assert greater dominance in 2025, playing with more confidence and authority from the outset.
Leading Teams in the Western Conference
Carcaterra: The Utah Archers remain the team to beat, defending champions for a reason. With league MVP Tom Schreiber returning after an injury-plagued previous season, their offensive capabilities are significantly bolstered. Schreiber’s return means the team gains a dynamic playmaker capable of both scoring and creating opportunities, complementing stars like Mac O’Keefe and Connor Fields. Their offensive firepower is expected to be even more lethal this year.
Kessenich: I believe the Archers will continue their dominance, edging out the Denver Outlaws, who I see as a team on the rise. With Schreiber back at full strength, Fields providing matchup problems, and coach Chris Bates bringing strategic expertise, Utah’s prospects look promising for another successful campaign.
Forecast for the Playoff Champion
Carcaterra: I am backing the Utah Archers to take home the title. While their offense garners much attention, their underrated defense, anchored by goaltender Brett Dobson, could be the decisive factor. Dobson has consistently performed at his best during playoff moments, making critical saves when it matters most.
Kessenich: For future bets, I favor the New York Atlas, with a cautious wager on Denver, as I believe Utah’s chances are slightly overestimated. The postseason often brings surprises, and I expect the Atlas to be a tough contender.
Most Valuable Player Race: Who Will Shine?
Carcaterra: I predict Michael Sowers will claim the MVP award. His quickness and exceptional ball-handling skills make him a nightmare for defenders. Despite Philadelphia’s struggles last year, Sowers consistently posted impressive numbers. This season, I expect him to elevate his game further, slicing through defenses with his dodging ability and creating scoring opportunities for himself and teammates.
Kessenich: I see Brennan O’Neill making a significant impact for Denver in his second professional season. Having spent the spring refining his skills at Duke University, O’Neill’s development is evident. The Outlaws also added Logan Wisnauskas, which complements O’Neill’s style. A compelling storyline is the group of second-year players, who are poised to make a leap forward-O’Neill, in particular, is expected to take a major step up this year.
Rookie of the Year: Rising Stars to Watch
Carcaterra: My pick for Rookie of the Year is Coulter Mackesy. The Princeton graduate was drafted by Boston, a team eager for a left-handed scoring threat. Mackesy holds the record as Princeton’s all-time leading draw specialist and is known for his precise, multi-faceted left-handed shot. With Asher Nolting’s creative passing setting him up, Mackesy is well-positioned to make an immediate impact and rack up points early in the season.
Kessenich: Considering uncertainties around CJ Kirst’s early availability for the Waterdogs, I lean toward Utah’s Brendan LaVelle for Rookie of the Year. LaVelle is a dependable, tough, and intelligent defender who can seamlessly integrate into the team’s defensive schemes. While Mackesy is a natural fit for Boston’s offense, LaVelle’s steady presence and versatility could earn him the accolade if offensive rookies face challenges adapting initially.
