Premier Lacrosse League Playoffs Kick Off with Intense Quarterfinal Matchups

The 2025 Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) playoffs are set to begin this weekend, with the quarterfinals taking place at TCO Stadium in Minneapolis. The postseason will feature two key matchups: the Philadelphia Waterdogs will face the Maryland Whipsnakes, while the California Redwoods will take on the Carolina Chaos. The winners of these games will advance to the semifinals, where they will compete for a chance to meet the Denver Outlaws.

Fans can watch both games via ESPN+ and the ESPN app. The first game kicks off on Saturday at 18:00, followed by the second matchup at 20:30.

Philadelphia Waterdogs vs. Maryland Whipsnakes

In the Eastern Conference clash, the Philadelphia Waterdogs will face the Maryland Whipsnakes. Key players will be pivotal to the outcome of this encounter. The Waterdogs’ Michael Sowers is a candidate for Most Valuable Player, showcasing his versatility by scoring nine goals with each hand throughout the season. The Whipsnakes have adopted different strategies against him in their previous encounters. In their first matchup, Sowers demonstrated his playmaking ability with one goal and seven assists, while in the second game, he found the net four times but had no assists.

Both teams are grappling with injuries as they head into the playoffs. The Waterdogs will be without defender D Liam Byrnes and attackman Zed Williams, who are both on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. For the Whipsnakes, attackman TJ Malone is questionable due to a back issue, and Matt Rambo is doubtful with a hamstring injury. Midfielder Ryan Conrad is also out, while Tucker Dordevic is on injured reserve with a jaw injury.

The Whipsnakes’ veteran attackman Rob Pannell is entering the playoff season on a high note, having scored two goals and provided two assists in a recent match against the Cannons. Pannell, who won his first championship in 2015, is seeking to add a second title to his accolades. Meanwhile, faceoff specialist Joe Nardella continues to excel, holding the record for the most playoff faceoff wins in PLL history with 167.

Carolina Chaos vs. California Redwoods

The Western Conference showdown will feature the Carolina Chaos facing off against the California Redwoods. The Chaos are hoping to leverage the skills of their standout goalie Blaze Riorden, who holds the all-time record for saves in PLL history with 202. His prowess in goal places him ahead of competitors such as Jesse Schwartzman and Dillon Ward, both of whom have 135 saves.

Injuries are also a concern for the Chaos, with midfielder JJ Sillstrop listed as questionable due to a shoulder issue, while Chris Aslanian is on injured reserve with a torso injury. The Redwoods have several players dealing with injuries as well, including defender Chris Fake and goalie Jack Kelly, both of whom are unable to compete.

Rookies have made a significant impact for the Chaos this season. Players Owen Hiltz and Jackson Eicher have alternated positions at attack and midfield, contributing a combined total of 36 goals and 27 assists. The Redwoods’ Ryder Garnsey has also made headlines with his highlight-reel plays, while teammate Chris Kavanagh leads all rookies with 37 points this season.

As the playoffs commence, the excitement is palpable. The outcomes of these quarterfinal matches will not only determine who advances but also set the stage for an exhilarating path to the championship. Fans can expect thrilling action as teams vie for glory in the 2025 PLL playoffs.