Rumors have been swirling that Major League Lacrosse might be considering canceling the 2009 season due to the weak economy. Today, Inside Lacrosse sources are indicating that the league will continue in 2009, minus a few teams.
Unfortunately, it appears the following MLL teams will not survive: Baltimore Barrage, New Jersey Pride, Los Angeles Riptide, and the San Francisco Dragons. In addition, it sounds like the Rochester Rattlers will be moving to Toronto.
That leaves us with a slimmed-down league comprised of: Denver, Chicago, Washington/Annapolis, Boston, Long Island and newcomer Toronto (previously Rochester).
While this move will concentrate the talent, resulting in a better show for us fans, we still have to question whether or not the league is in trouble. If the MLL cannot find a market anywhere in the country to support at least ten teams, then it’s not looking good for the future of the sport at the professional level. Hopefully they figure it out before it’s too late.
