The Buffalo Bandits have released their initial 21-man roster for the upcoming 2025-26 National Lacrosse League (NLL) season. This announcement comes as NLL teams were required to submit their rosters on Monday.
Players who did not make the initial roster may be eligible for the practice squad, with signings allowed to begin at noon on Tuesday, November 25. According to Article 5 of the new collective bargaining agreement, “During the Training Camp period, after a Club releases a player from the Active Roster, that Club may not sign the same player to a Practice Player contract until twenty-four (24) hours following the team’s submittal of the transaction via the League’s database releasing the player.” The Bandits stated that their practice roster will be announced at a later date.
The Bandits are set to open their season and celebrate by raising their third consecutive NLL Cup banner at KeyBank Center on Saturday, November 29, when they face off against the Georgia Swarm. Tickets for this event remain available.
The team’s initial roster includes seven forwards: Kyle Buchanan (91), Josh Byrne (22), Tehoka Nanticoke (1), Lukas Nielsen (18), Clay Scanlan (81), Dhane Smith (92), and Mike Triolo (29). The transition players are Connor Farrell (41), Ron John (33), Ian MacKay (4), Nick Weiss (20), and Thomas Whitty (3). Defensemen named are Zack Belter (77), Paul Dawson (6), Steve Priolo (23), Dylan Robinson (8), and Cam Wyers (5). Goalies listed are Evan Constantopoulos (46), Steve Orleman (44), Wakiigan Shognosh (00), and Matt Vinc (48).
Three players have been placed on injured reserve. Further details about these players or additional changes to the roster will be provided by the team in future updates.
