The 2025 Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) Draft brought excitement as new talent was selected to join the league’s top teams. The biggest highlight of the draft was the Philadelphia Waterdogs securing the No. 1 overall pick by choosing CJ Kirst, a dynamic attackman from Cornell. His skill set, versatility, and scoring ability make him a perfect fit for the Waterdogs’ offense. Meanwhile, Notre Dame’s Chris Kavanagh, a player many expected to be picked in the top five, slid down to the No. 10 pick, where he was chosen by the California Redwoods. Kavanagh’s selection at No. 10 adds incredible value to the Redwoods’ already solid roster.
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CJ Kirst: A Game-Changer for the Waterdogs
CJ Kirst’s selection as the first pick in the 2025 PLL Draft was highly anticipated, and it has the potential to elevate the Waterdogs’ attack. Known for his impressive scoring ability, Kirst has the agility to dodge defenders, create opportunities, and take accurate shots from different angles. His experience at Cornell, where he set a record for goals, speaks volumes about his consistency and effectiveness on the field.
His selection means the Waterdogs are gaining an offensive weapon who can make an immediate impact. Kirst’s experience with Team USA’s U-21 squad, where he led in scoring during the gold medal match, only solidifies the confidence placed in him. He joins a group of talented players like Michael Sowers and Kieran McArdle, which makes the Waterdogs’ attack one of the most exciting in the league.
Chris Kavanagh’s Unexpected Slide to No. 10: A Steal for the Redwoods
While many projected Chris Kavanagh to go much earlier in the draft, the California Redwoods managed to secure him at No. 10, a significant win for the team. Kavanagh’s skills as an attackman are undeniable. With the ability to score and assist, he is a dual threat who will add a new layer to the Redwoods’ offense. His college career at Notre Dame, where he posted 44 goals and 37 assists in his final season, showcases his all-around offensive capabilities.
Kavanagh’s fall in the draft could be attributed to the increasing competition in the league, but the Redwoods are the clear beneficiaries. This pick could help the Redwoods build around Kavanagh as they look to replace veteran players and bring fresh energy into the offense.
Key Draft Picks and Team Strategies
- Philadelphia Waterdogs:
- 1st Round: CJ Kirst (Attack, Cornell)
- 2nd Round: Griffin Schutz (Midfield, Virginia)
- 3rd Round: Casey Wilson (SSDM, Denver)
- California Redwoods:
- 1st Round: Chris Kavanagh (Attack, Notre Dame)
- 2nd Round: Colin Mulshine (Defense, Princeton)
- 3rd Round: Greg Campisi (LSM, Notre Dame)
- Denver Outlaws:
- 1st Round: Jake Taylor (Attack, Notre Dame)
- 2nd Round: Scott Smith (Defense, Johns Hopkins)
- 3rd Round: Patrick Hackler (Midfield, Johns Hopkins)
These picks reflect each team’s focus on strengthening key areas. The Waterdogs clearly aimed to bolster their offense, while the Redwoods focused on adding offensive depth and defensive stability. The Outlaws, similarly, balanced their draft selections to create a well-rounded team.
Looking to the Future: What the 2025 PLL Draft Means
The 2025 PLL Draft has set the stage for an exciting season ahead. The selections of CJ Kirst by the Waterdogs and Chris Kavanagh by the Redwoods are just the beginning. Both players bring a lot to their teams, and fans can expect them to make an immediate impact. For the Waterdogs, Kirst’s ability to change the game offensively will be crucial as they aim to compete at the highest level. For the Redwoods, Kavanagh’s slide to No. 10 could be one of the steals of the draft, giving them an offensive powerhouse to build around.
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With new rookies joining the ranks, the upcoming season is expected to bring fresh dynamics and competitive energy to the PLL. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how these young players adjust to the professional level and how they contribute to their teams’ success. The 2025 PLL Draft has not only shaped the future of these players but also set the tone for the league’s evolving strategies.