The Washington Stealth (9-7) head into the post-season as the second place seed in the west and will host the third seeded (9-7) Edmonton Rush in the West Division Semifinal this Saturday.
The Stealth rebounded this season after a dismal 4-12 record in 2012 earned them last place in league standings, causing them to be the lone NLL team to not make playoffs. This year also marks Washington’s first time finishing the regular season with a winning percentage over .500 since their Champion’s Cup title year in 2010.
The Rush were victorious in two out of three meetings between the teams this year with an 18-10 road win and a 15-10 victory on home turf. Washington’s lone win versus Edmonton came in the form of a 12-10 road win.
Rhys Duch will be depended on to carry the load for Washington offensively. Duch led Washington in scoring with 96 points, surpassing his previous career best single season totals of 90 points. Duch’s career numbers exceed the team’s second highest point totals of Lewis Ratcliff (67) by close to thirty points. Additionally, the 45 goals netted by Duch were enough to earn his first NLL goal scoring title.
In order to relieve some of the pressure from Duch, Cliff Smith will be counted on to step up offensively. Smith began the season on an offensive tear, recording 15 points in just the first two games and earning back-to-back NLL Offensive Player of the Week honours. While the lefty still managed to contribute a stellar 45 points on the season, his offensive dwindled after his tremendous start. If Smith can put forth an effort reminiscent of his early season performances the Stealth will be in good shape offensively.
Anchoring the Stealth defense will be goaltender Tyler Richards. Richards tended the twine in eight of the Stealth’s nine victories en route to a career year. The five year veteran set new career highs in wins (8) and saves (579), in addition to receiving NLL Defensive Player of the Week honours twice.
The Stealth defense will have to be wary of Rush rookie sensation Mark Matthews in order to secure a playoff victory. Matthews notched 21 points in three appearances versus the Stealth, including a six goal performance the last time the teams met.
Face-off for the West Division Semifinal is set for Saturday, April 27th at 7:30 p.m. on the Comcast Arena turf.
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