Since the days of the Eagle Pro Lacrosse League there have 31 teams fighting it out for the right to call themselves champions. Throughout that time who has been the best team of all time?
The 2014 NLL season gave fans a spectacle of talent, and record setting trends. The Edmonton Rush set a regular season win streak record, with their youth, speed, and outstanding defense. Many thought early on they were the favorite to hoist the Champions Cup. The Rochester Knighthawks had other plans as they went on to accomplish a feat no other team in the 25-plus year league history has ever done. Winning the first ever three-peat in National Lacrosse League History, in a new playoff format for the NLL.
So does this accomplishment make Rochester the greatest team ever, or just the greatest Dynasty to take take the floor? There have been many great teams throughout the years, such as the back-to-back championship teams of the Wings and Bandits. The Buffalo Bandits having the longest running win streak in NLL history at the time of their Champions Cup victory in ’93. Without walking away with the Champion’s Cup, the Edmonton Rush with their record-breaking win streak this season spoiled their chances at being considered the greatest team in the history of the NLL.
So what makes a great team? Is it their overall record, win streak, number of consecutive championships, stat leaders, defense? It really is a matter of opinion, and all these categories could be argued ’til most fans are blue in the face. This can be said about the Rochester Knighthawks of the past three seasons. They may not have the most potent offense year after year, the greatest defense, or transition. That being said they have found a way through all the highs and lows to get things done come postseason play. The chemistry that has been built around Curt Styres’ roster is amazing. The guys never cease to amaze most fans of the sport on their love for the game and playing with each other.
As a Rochester native, and converted Vancouver Stealth supporter I can say that I still keep tabs on my hometown team. I am happy for their success in such a small market, with some of the best, most die hard fans in the league. The city is lucky to have such great ownership and players to support, and the team is lucky to have those great fans as well. It may be argued for years to come ’til another team can accomplish what was done this season.
For now it is safe to say that the Knighthawks have accomplished the pinnacle in pro sports, and have earned the right to be called the greatest team, and dynasty in the National Lacrosse League for now.
