Parity is already making it difficult to predict outcomes across the National Lacrosse League. This is especially true in the East Division as Georgia, Buffalo, and Toronto can all climb to a .500 record with victories over tough western opponents.
Three matchups are on the NLL slate for Week 5. The Black Wolves, Knighthawks, and Mammoth are on the bye.
NLL staff members Andy McNamara, Ashley Docking, Tyson Geick, and Brian Shanahan deliver their game predictions every week.
Send us your picks @NLL on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook using the specific game hashtags for each match-up below.
Saskatchewan Rush (2-0) at Georgia Swarm (1-2) – Saturday, 7:05pm ET
Andy
A rematch of last year’s thrilling Champion’s Cup Final! Georgia secured their first “W” last weekend and at home I see them grabbing their second. It’s always a must watch when these two clubs lock horns.
Pick: Swarm
Ashley
Rematch ! The two finalists from last years Champions Cup duke it out in Atlanta. Although I️ think the Rush are primed for another Finals appearance, the continuity in that Swarm dressing room isn’t something to underestimate. I’ll give Georgia it’s second in a row here.
Pick: Swarm
Tyson
They’ll be coming out with something to prove on Saturday night.
Pick: Rush
Shanny
Pick: Rush
Tweet @NLL your prediction using #SASvsGA
Calgary Roughnecks (1-2) at Buffalo Bandits (1-2) – Saturday, 7:30pm ET
Andy
I didn’t like what I saw out of the Bandits backend and goaltending against Toronto. Buffalo has the horses to turn it around, however, I feel that Calgary’s attack is built to be a mighty challenge for the Bandits.
Pick: Roughnecks
Ashley
The Bandits get back on track this week at home against the Roughnecks. Less than ten goals a game just won’t cut it when it comes to beating Buffalo.
Pick: Bandits
Tyson
A close battle, but the Roughnecks have the defensive edge.
Pick: Roughnecks
Shanny
Pick: Bandits
Tweet @NLL your prediction using #CALvsBUF
Toronto Rock (1-2) at Vancouver Stealth (0-3) – Saturday, 10pm ET
Andy
The Rock’s offense exploded this past Saturday and the Stealth has looked lost through three games. With that being said, it’s tough to start a season 0-4 and it’s always a difficult road trip for east teams heading to the west coast. I feel Toronto’s offense has broken through, but Vancouver stings them in an upset.
Pick: Stealth
Ashley
Toronto continue to roll this week I️. Vancouver. Time zone change and travel won’t stop them from putting the Stealth in a 0-4 panic.
Pick: Rock
Tyson
The Rock’s offense came alive last week, if they’re able to clean up the defense a little, they should have no problem with the Stealth.
Pick: Rock
Shanny
Pick: Rock
Tweet @NLL your prediction using #TORvsVAN
Andy McNamara has been a play-by-play commentator for the NLL on TSN, NLLTV.com, and world lacrosse tournaments since 2011. He’s also a sport talk host and anchor on TSN 1050 sports radio. Follow Andy on twitter @Andy
