By Luke Savage
The World Lacrosse Championship playoffs have begun, showcasing the best competition in the world and unwavering spirit of the remaining eight teams. The favorites to clinch the title, the United States, enter the quarterfinals with high expectations, boasting strong odds at -140. Canada follows closely behind, carrying a respectable +180, while the Haudenosaunee, at +550, proves themselves as contenders. As the playoffs progress, the underdogs are continuing to fight, including Japan with odds of +7500, Australia and England tied at +10000, and Israel and Jamaica at +15000 and +20000.
USA (-140):
The United States takes center stage as the favored team with -140 odds to win the World Lacrosse Championship. Their path to success has been nothing short of dominant, beating tough opponents like Canada, Australia, the Haudenosaunee, and England. The US team comprises a strong roster, boasting some of the best lacrosse players in the world. The inclusion of Duke attackman Brennan O’Neill, a rising star, adds immense firepower to their offense. The team also benefits from the exceptional skills of three-time PLL Goalie of the Year, Blaze Riorden. In addition, the experience and leadership of veterans Rob Pannell, Matt Rambo, and Trevor Baptiste contribute significantly to the team’s chemistry and winning ability. With such an exceptional lineup of players, the United States is poised to maintain its unbeaten streak and continue its impressive journey. The United States will face Israel in the quarterfinals round.
Canada (+180):
Canada enters the World Lacrosse Championship playoffs as the second-favorite team, carrying +180 odds to claim the title. Their journey thus far has been marked by a loss against the United States, but they have rebounded with impressive wins over Australia, the Haudenosaunee, and England. Like their American counterparts, Canada’s roster showcases a strong lineup of lacrosse players from the PLL and college. Duke attackman Dyson Williams has been in exceptional form, showcasing his skills alongside seasoned professionals Connor Fields, Josh Byrne, and Jeff Teat. The team’s goalies, Dillion Ward and Brett Dobson, have been outstanding in the net, consistently delivering solid performances and fortifying Canada’s defense. With a balanced mix of offensive players and defensive stability, Canada remains a strong contender to win this tournament. Canada is matched up against Jamaica for the quarterfinal round.
Haudenosaunee (+550):
The Haudenosaunee enter the World Lacrosse Championship playoffs as the third-favorite, boasting +550 odds to win the tournament. They arrive in the playoffs with impressive wins over England, Hong Kong, and Australia, although with losses to powerhouses Canada and the United States. Throughout the tournament, lacrosse fans have been treated to see Lyle Thompson back on the field, who is taking a break from this year’s PLL season. Thompson’s presence on the field has been electrifying, accompanied by outstanding performances from Eli McLaughlin, Larson Sundown, and Austin Staats, who have been nothing short of exceptional. With this talented lineup and their unwavering determination, the Haudenosaunee team remains a strong contender. Haudenosaunee will be facing up against Japan in the quarterfinal round.
Only Players Quarterfinals Picks:
USA vs Israel – USA
Australia vs England – Australia
Canada vs Jamaica – Canada
Haudenosaunee vs Japan – Haudenosaunee
Photo credit: World Lacrosse
