The New York Lizards keep making moves, and we caught up with head coach Joe Spallina to discuss them.This week the Lizards traded for three players- Steve DeNapoli, Ned Crotty and Matt Streibel. “I believe that Crotty and Streibel trades address some major issues with our offense and the continuity and philosophy of our 2014 team. ” said Spallina. “Adding a player like Steve DeNapoli really helps strengthen our short stick defensive midfielder position one of the most important positions in the league. Overall the dynamics of our locker room will improve by the added talent but equally as important the leadership.”
“Ned Crotty is one f the most dynamic players in the MLL he adds speed and an uncanny ability to make the players around him better. He is a great 1v1 attack man but is a phenomenal feeder as well.” explained Spallina.
“Matt Streibel is one of the best leaders in the game he is a longtime veteran whom has won multiple championships. We also feel while he is a world class player on and off the field and will really impact our young core. He will add a different element to our midfield with his ability to shoot and dodge.”
Last season New York was a championship favorite but missed the MLL playoffs. Now they have lost Mark Matthews, who they traded for last season, but added a completely new core.
“We really like the additions to our roster but we still have more work to do.” said Spallina. “We understand people will have high expectations for our team but WE have the same expectations.”
The Lizards are now an interesting combination of players from young stars to older veterans. Yet, they lose veteran Stephen Peyser, who they traded to the Ohio Machine. “Stephen Peyser was an outstanding teammate and player he was a pleasure to coach. Peyser is one of the most explosive dodgers in the league. It was a difficult decision to make but we felt we needed to change the dynamic of our midfield.”
New York has been the most active team in the league this off season, and while to say they are rebuilding is a stretch, they are certainly reloading.
