The Buffalo Bandits reported on Mar. 17 that the team has achieved a three-game winning streak, bringing their record to 4-1 over the last five games. The announcement follows a recent victory against Colorado in front of 19,070 fans at KeyBank Center.
The team’s recent success is significant as it comes during a crucial stretch of the season, with playoff hopes on the line. The Bandits are currently considered one of the hottest teams in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) heading into week 17.
A highlight from the latest win was Dhane Smith surpassing 1,300 regular season points, making him only the eighth player in NLL history to reach this milestone and the third fastest to do so. “It doesn’t mean that much to me right now, but when I retire, it will mean a lot more, just so I can tell my kids that I wasn’t a bad lacrosse player,” said Smith. “Right now, I am focused on this year and making the playoffs.” Josh Byrne, who has tallied 34 points in his last five games and is Smith’s teammate and friend, said: “Dhane recorded 1300 points, and you say wait, what? That’s pretty incredible. I think sometimes you take it for granted a little bit, more so because of how close we are. For me personally, I came into the perfect situation with Dhane being here.” Byrne also commented on the team dynamic: “It’s fun to be a part of,” following his four-goal, five-assist performance.
Joe Resetarits recently returned to play for Buffalo after an eleven-season absence. Reflecting on his return he said: “Now 36, a father of three, and still living locally in the area, I am thankful I can still play this game and learn from some of the best players who have ever played. I’ve always wanted to come back here… We have the best one-two punch in NLL history with Dhane and Josh, and we are hitting our stride at the right time.”
Head coach John Tavares remains focused on upcoming challenges as he prepares for Saturday’s game in San Diego. He said: “I look at the standings, but we can only play one game at a time and not get caught up in what people are ranking the team… What I like right now is that we are in control of our destiny, whether we make the playoffs or not.”
Looking ahead, Buffalo faces travel-intensive weeks with games scheduled in San Diego and Saskatoon before returning home April 4 against Vancouver.
