This year’s NLL Draft will be like none before it.
The league will hold its draft virtually for the first time this Thursday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m., following in the footsteps of the NFL, MLB, and WNBA – all of which held virtual drafts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. And, in true 2020 fashion, there are some changes.
So, Banditland, let’s answer your questions before the big night.
How can I watch?
The 2020 NLL Draft will be streamed live on B/R Live, the NLL’s YouTube channel, and on the league’s Facebook (@NLL) beginning at 7 p.m.
When do the Bandits pick?
The NLL Draft consists of six rounds. The Bandits hold the following six picks:
Round 1, Pick 9
Round 2, Pick 23 (from Philadelphia)
Round 4, Pick 54 (from Rochester)
Round 5, Pick 73 (from Colorado)
Round 5, Pick 76
Round 6, Pick 89
Who is eligible?
This is where 2020 changes come into play. The draft is open to all players 21 and older who have never participated in NCAA lacrosse as well as players who have exhausted or forfeited their NCAA eligibility. That part is normal.
What’s new for this year only: Teams can draft NCAA players who have exhausted four years of eligibility but may return to play a fifth NCAA season. The NCAA in March approved a fifth year of competition for Division I student-athletes after the early cancellation of the 2019-20 spring season.
Who are the players to watch?
Check out this list from NLL.com detailing the top 15 prospects for 2020.
How do I follow along?
Stay tuned to the Bandits’ Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for live updates up to and during the 2020 NLL Draft, and check back here on Bandits.com afterward for a recap of the selections.