PLL Week 5: Players to Watch

Chrome LC vs. Cannons LC

Photo courtesy of the PLL/Nick Ieradi

Chrome: Sam Handley (M)

It’s been a slow rookie campaign for Handley. The former Penn All-American has just three goals and one assist through four professional games. He’s struggling with turnovers and hasn’t been able to create quality opportunities for himself or his teammates.

Things trended upwards for Handley in Minnesota though, as he scored a pair of goals in Chrome’s 10-7 loss to Waterdogs. The Portland, Oregon, product is just scratching the surface of his potential in the PLL, and a weak Cannons defense could provide the launching pad he needs to take off.

Photo courtesy of the PLL/Nick Ieradi

Cannons: Ryan Drenner (M)

Drenner deserves his flowers. The former Whipsnakes and Waterdogs attacker is 14th in the league in scoring and has been the most consistent piece in the Cannons’ midfield this season. Head coach Brian Holman has his team looking so much better from a year ago, and the unselfish play of players like Drenner has been a big part of that success.

Chrome can be physical and nasty defensively, especially with JT Giles-Harris and Jesse Bernhardt back in the lineup. Getting production from the midfield will be key to scoring, and Drenner will drive that ship in Connecticut.

Topher Adams is a Central Florida native and editorial contributor at Pro Lacrosse Talk. He’s a journalism student at the University of Florida. He’s spent time covering the Gators varsity women’s program and club men’s team, as well as the PLL. Outside of lacrosse, he covers and follows the Gators football team and Orlando City of Major League Soccer.

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