NLL Insider

Well NLL fans we get closer and closer to the big day and the closer we get, the crazier things seem to be. Another three team swap, some key signings and this week pretty much all teams running their training camps. Some teams have already started but once this weekend is over, all teams will have had at least one full weekend of practices. So get out when you can, see the new blood and say hi to some old friends.

            Continuing to look around the league at some of the top stories it’s pretty obvious we need to look at the three team trade between the Rush, Mammoth and Swarm. The names – Ryan Powell, Chad Culp and Callum Crawford. After reading the message boards, it doesn’t seem like any fan base is too thrilled or too bummed about what their team gave up or acquired. But when you look at it, I think all three teams made out very well and it was an even trade across the board. Sure RP had the most points but he had made it quite clear to Mammoth GM Steve Govett he was unwilling to make a deal in the Mile High city, so moving him and getting something in return was paramount. Govett accomplished both those tasks in acquiring Culp. A gritty loose ball rat who will give solid minutes to the Mammoth he’ll also provide some tenacity on the face-off team to add to their already athletic squad. While he may not have the size of Powell or Crawford, Culp easily makes up for that in heart, hustle and desire.  The Rush get another Derek Kennan product that will pile up onto the ever growing list of new faces in Edmonton.  While older brother Casey Powell, continues to shine in the American Box spotlight, RP continues to bring his hard hat and lunchbox every night and will always work his tail off. His size will always be to his advantage as he exemplifies a power forward indoors.  The third link to this deal is Callum Crawford. Having bounced around in his first four seasons, he now finds himself on his 5^th team in as many years. By no means is this a depiction of his game or character. Last year was his best offensive season, tallying 41 points and he continues to mature and figure out how his game fits into the NLL. His arrival in Minnesota will help give them some strength on the right hand side. While Culp was going to be fighting for time in the Hive, Crawford should fit right in and see valuable minutes from GM Marty O’Neil. Callum is a tall athletic guy with an accurate outside shot and loves to drive the crease and has no issues with finishing the game with two bloody knees. All three players weren’t going to fit into their former team’s plans for the future so all three GM’s worked to find them suitable homes and they did just that.

As mentioned, NLL training camps continue this weekend across the league and it’s safe to say that each team will go about their tactics a little differently. Some teams will have an open try out to see if they can find a diamond in the rough or maybe a nice fit for the practice roster. Others will invite only a select few including last year’s roster, draft picks and the odd free agent. However they go about selecting the best of the best, you can rest assured that every coaching staff is doing all they can to bring you, the fan, the best product possible.

Would have loved to have seen Movember include the NLL season cause I know there would have been some sick cookie dusters out there but since the two don’t cross paths, I’m very happy to see the league continue with its Black Out Cancer nights. Sure breast cancer’s color is pink and yes all the Roughnecks did look flashy last season in their pink jersey’s but I think the Black will lend itself better to auction items for fans. Most teams already have a black jersey and if not, it’s a lot easier to make one.  Each of the league’s eleven teams will host a special-themed “Black Out Breast Cancer Night” during a home game that takes place between March 26 and April 3. So do your part, bring your cheque book, rock the black on black and help out this amazing cause. (ps. If you’ve got any solid Movember pics kicking around, I’d love to see ‘em, winner will get posted next week)

2010 is the year of the Olympics but in my mind it’s a huge year for the NLL as well. If the Rock can have some success on TSN2, that could hopefully lead to the Rush and ‘Necks getting picked up next season. If the Stealth are successful in the Pacific Northwest could we see the return of the Ravens? Will the NLL get on a major US market? Probably not this year but if we continue to grow the crowds we can’t be ignored forever.

One month! That’s all we have to wait. Be sure to check out Chavez’s post about the week 1 winners and have your say. Also send me any questions comments or concerns you have about your team or this year’s NLL action.

Battle on Lax fans

Jenner is a two-time Mann Cup champion with six years of NLL experience. Email him at ted.jenner@nllinsider.com Currently the voice of the BombSquad in Everett and pursuing pro lacrosse in BC in the Arena and on the radio

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