The Rochester Knighthawks will return to Blue Cross Arena for the first time since capturing the 2012 NLL title this Saturday, as they host the Minnesota Swarm in pre-season action. New additions and NLL hopefuls will get their first chance to play alongside returning players to determine the Knighthawks final roster.
A point of interest during the game will be Rochester’s goalie situation. While Matt Vinc is cemented as the team’s starter, there are questions surrounding who will backup the two time NLL MVP. With Ben Van Every currently injured and questions surrounding Jake Henhawk, Vinc may have some new faces supporting him between the pipes this season. Recent signees Ian Duffy and Mike Matteo will both look to impress in goal versus the Swarm for a chance to crack the Knighthawks roster.
Casey Powell and Joel McCready will both look to return to NLL form after sitting out the 2012 season. Prior to last season Powell posted back to back 80 point campaigns in 2010 and 2011, earning league MVP honors in 2010. McCready, who sat out last year due to work commitments, returns for his his fourth year as part of the Knighhawks. The St. Catherines’ native was a Mann Cup finalist with the Langley Thunder this summer, having an impressive personal series with 13 points in 6 games.
The Knighthawks pre-season will come to a close December 15th when they travel to Montreal for an exhibition game versus the Toronto Rock.
Check back with In Lacrosse We Trust for the latest NLL news and updates.
