PLL Power Rankings Before Week 5: Cannons Take the Lead

Overview of Week 4

The Premier Lacrosse League’s 2025 season is heating up as Week 4 saw some thrilling matchups. The Atlas triumphed over the Waterdogs, while the Cannons narrowly defeated the Whipsnakes. The Outlaws managed to pull ahead against the Archers, and the Whips obliterated the Chaos, leaving six teams with two wins.

As we look ahead, determining the standings among these competitive teams is a challenge. Here’s how they stack up in the latest PLL Power Rankings:

Top Teams

1. Boston Cannons

Current record: 3-1
Week 4 ranking: 3

Coach Brian Holman returned to his alma mater, Johns Hopkins, with a smile after watching Asher Nolting’s impressive five assists and strong performances from midfielders Matt Campbell and Ryan Drenner. The Cannons tightened their grip on the game in the third quarter, stretching a 7-5 lead to 12-8. Despite a scoring drought in the final minutes, they secured a 13-12 victory.

This weekend: vs. Chaos | Saturday, 8:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+)

2. Denver Outlaws

Current record: 2-2
Week 4 ranking: 7

Goalie Logan McNaney has been a standout, boasting a 60% clean save rate—far surpassing the next best in the PLL. His ability to make saves without rebounds has been crucial for the Outlaws’ success. After celebrating his 24th birthday, McNaney has helped lead the team to two consecutive wins, aided by the explosive Jared Bernhardt, who demands double teams with his speed.

This weekend: vs. Redwoods | Friday, 9 p.m. ET (ESPN+)

3. New York Atlas

Current record: 2-2
Week 4 ranking: 6

Coach Mike Pressler made significant changes in the midfield, activating Reid Bowering and sidelining Myles Jones and Kyle Jackson. The Atlas came out swinging, leading 4-1 before finishing with a decisive 17-9 victory over Philadelphia, showcasing their potential. Jeff Teat’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as was the defensive effort from Gavin Adler.

This weekend: vs. Archers | Friday, 11:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+)

Challenges Ahead

4. Utah Archers

Current record: 2-2
Week 4 ranking: 1

After building a comfortable lead against the Outlaws, the Archers fell apart, ending the game with a painful 13-10 loss. Their offensive struggles and low faceoff percentage have raised concerns, though rookie Sam King’s energy has been a bright spot.

This weekend: vs. Atlas | Friday, 11:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+)

5. Philadelphia Waterdogs

Current record: 2-2
Week 4 ranking: 2

Frustrations mounted for the Waterdogs as they faltered against New York. Coach Bill Tierney was visibly concerned as his team struggled to match their opponent’s intensity. The question arises: will star player CJ Kirst return to the lineup following hand surgery?

This weekend: vs. Redwoods | Saturday, 6 p.m. ET (ESPN/ESPN+)

6. California Redwoods

Current record: 2-1
Week 4 ranking: 5

The Redwoods enjoyed a bye week and are set to face the Outlaws and Waterdogs in their upcoming games. With the crowd behind them at Torero Stadium, they are eager to make an impression.

This weekend: vs. Outlaws | Friday, 9 p.m. (ESPN+); vs. Waterdogs | Saturday, 6 p.m. ET (ESPN/ESPN+)

7. Maryland Whipsnakes

Current record: 2-3
Week 4 ranking: 4

Despite a mixed weekend, the Whipsnakes remain in contention. Rookie goalie Emmet Carroll has earned a starting position, and Rob Pannell set an all-time assists record, indicating a bright future.

This weekend: Bye

8. Carolina Chaos

Current record: 1-3
Week 4 ranking: 8

The Chaos faced a devastating loss to Maryland, plagued by defensive issues and an inability to score in the latter half of the game. They’ll need to regroup quickly as they prepare to face the Cannons.

This weekend: vs. Cannons | Saturday, 8:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+)