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The Buffalo Bandits stand on the brink of making NLL history as they prepare to battle the Vancouver Warriors in the 2025 NLL Semifinals. After a hard-fought victory over the San Diego Seals, the Bandits are eager to defend their title and aim for a remarkable three-peat. Let’s break down the teams, key players, and what fans can expect from this highly anticipated series.
This best-of-three series opens at Buffalo’s KeyBank Center, where the Bandits enjoy home-floor advantage. The official Bandits preview details the schedule and matchups, emphasizing the importance of a strong start and the team’s commitment to clean, penalty-free lacrosse. After game one in Buffalo, the series shifts to Vancouver for game two, with a possible winner-take-all third game back in Buffalo if necessary.
The Buffalo Bandits have established themselves as a powerhouse, boasting top talents like Josh Byrne and Dhane Smith. Byrne needs only a few points to move higher in NLL playoff scoring history, while Smith is on track to possibly surpass head coach John Tavares as the top playoff point scorer in NLL history. Goaltender Matt Vinc is another crucial figure, coming off a standout quarterfinal performance with an incredible .923 save percentage.
Supporting scorers like Kyle Buchanan and Ian MacKay have also delivered when it matters most. Defensively, Nick Weiss and Steve Priolo anchor a group that limited San Diego to just four goals—the lowest scoring game in league history. For an in-depth breakdown, check out Inside Lacrosse’s NLL Semifinals Preview.
The Warriors, riding a seven-game win streak, arrive as formidable challengers. Keegan Bal leads Vancouver’s offense, supported by Adam Charalambides and veteran Kevin Crowley. Goalie Christian Del Bianco, acquired mid-season, remains undefeated in a Warriors jersey and is one of the league’s top netminders.
Both teams feature elite goaltending. Vinc’s playoff experience is unmatched, but Del Bianco’s arrival has transformed Vancouver’s defense. The upcoming series is expected to be a showcase of incredible saves and strategic play in the crease.
Faceoffs will be pivotal. Alec Stathakis (Warriors) and Connor Farrell (Bandits) are both strong in the circle, and every possession could influence the outcome.
The last meeting between these teams saw two long penalties that gave Vancouver momentum. Bandits coach John Tavares stressed the importance of playing disciplined, five-on-five lacrosse to keep the fast-paced Warriors in check.
Fans can catch live Bandits action on CW23 in Buffalo and stream via ESPN+, NLL+, and TSN+. For more game info, live scores, and highlights, visit the official NLL game page.
This series is about more than advancing to the finals—it’s about cementing a lacrosse legacy. With Byrne and Smith chasing all-time records and the team aiming for a third straight championship, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Buffalo Bandits have the skills, experience, and motivation to thrive in this hotly contested series. Their home-floor advantage and deep roster could prove decisive, but the surging Vancouver Warriors present a formidable test. Whether you are a passionate Bandits supporter or a general lacrosse fan, this NLL Semifinal promises drama and excitement at every turn.
Stay connected for updates and expert coverage on the Buffalo Bandits official site and Inside Lacrosse as this thrilling series unfolds.