The National Lacrosse League (NLL) Quarterfinals are heating up with exciting matchups this weekend. As the playoffs commence, teams are poised to make their mark. Here’s a look at the key games that will set the stage for thrilling lacrosse action.
Quarterfinal Showdowns to Watch
Vancouver Warriors vs. Halifax Thunderbirds
On Friday, April 24, 2026, the top-seeded Vancouver Warriors will host the eighth-seeded Halifax Thunderbirds. This marks the Thunderbirds’ second consecutive playoff appearance.
- The Warriors secured the number one seed after defeating Philadelphia in their final regular-season game, ended 17-10.
- Head coach Curt Malawsky recorded his 122nd career win, surpassing Darris Kilgour for third all-time in NLL coaching victories.
- Keegan Bal is the NLL’s leading point scorer, entering the playoffs with 124 points (45 goals, 79 assists).
Halifax clinched its playoff spot with back-to-back wins against Philadelphia and Rochester. Historically, the two teams have met once in the playoffs, with the Thunderbirds defeating the old Washington Stealth in 2013.
Georgia Swarm vs. Buffalo Bandits
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, the Georgia Swarm will host the reigning champions, the Buffalo Bandits. This is the Swarm’s first home playoff game since 2019.
- The Swarm secured their playoff spot following a strong season, marked by a six-game winning streak.
- Standout rookie performances include Michael Grace and Noan Byrne, who have significantly contributed to the team’s success.
- Goaltender Brett Dobson made history by finishing the regular season with a league-best 7.86 goals against average.
The Bandits, currently the fifth seed, have rebounded from a four-game losing streak to secure their playoff position. Last season, the Bandits emerged victorious in their initial matchup against the Swarm.
Toronto Rock vs. Saskatchewan Rush
Also on Saturday, the #6 Toronto Rock will face the #3 Saskatchewan Rush in a rematch at SaskTel Centre.
- The Rush finished their regular season strong, clinching home-field advantage despite some recent inconsistencies.
- Toronto Rock has seen a turnaround, finishing the regular season with an 11-7 record.
- Rookies Sam English, Owen Hiltz, and CJ Kirst have been instrumental in the Rock’s offensive strategy.
This matchup marks a significant playoff encounter as the teams haven’t faced off in the postseason for over a decade.
Colorado Mammoth vs. San Diego Seals
The quarterfinal round concludes with the #2 Colorado Mammoth hosting the #7 San Diego Seals on Saturday at 9:00 PM ET.
- Colorado clinched their playoff spot early but lost their claim to the first seed during the final week of the regular season.
- The Mammoth hold a strong home record, finishing 7-2 at home in the regular season.
- San Diego’s unexpected playoff berth came after key victories late in the season.
The Mammoth have historically performed well against the Seals, but this year’s unpredictable lineup could change the narrative.
Watch the Action Live
Fans can catch all the action from the NLL Quarterfinals live on ESPN+, NLL+, and El-Balad. The excitement kicks off on Friday night with the showdown between the Vancouver Warriors and Halifax Thunderbirds.
