According to IL, Syracuse had a very good off-season. In a list of the "10 Winners of the Summer", SU's name pops up quite a bit.
Joey Spallina and Co - Joey Spallina’s summer with the Orangeville Northmen was spectacular. Ultimately, they didn’t make it to the Minto despite putting up a historic regular season. Spallina was a quick study in the box. Here’s what ILIndoor Editor Stephen Stamp had to say about his NLL prospects: “Spallina showed that his lacrosse IQ is comparable to his phenomenal skill. You just don't look at him on the floor and think ‘field player’ anymore; he is simply a great box lacrosse player playing a key role on one of the best Jr A teams ever.” Further, Spallina solidified his role as a tireless and selfless leader with his willingness to spend summer up North — to be the hardest-working guy at all times. Teammates Trey Deere and Finn Thomson were among that group, too. Add in the transfer haul coming to the Dome, and all the pieces are there for Spallina and Co. to make some noise.
Syracuse's Defense - Obviously, there is a lot to be said about losing the greatest defensemen of all time in Dave Pietramala. But, the hire of John Odierna from Manhattan is really good news for the Orange faithful. A rising star, well-respected and liked among his peers, Odierna’s success with the Jaspers is really impressive. He consistently puts out incredible defensive teams. The spotlight gets brighter and the stakes get raised, but Odierna’s hire is a substantial one and a prudent move from Gary Gait.
DII and DIII Portal Guys - It shouldn’t be an anomaly when a DII or DIII guy succeeds at the next level. There are about 30 guys known to be transferring from DII and DIII this year. Some of them will be stars. Tufts face-off guy Mason Kohn, for example, will be thrust into one of the most important roles in the nation as a Syracuse face-off specialist.
The Usual Transfer Suspects - In a draft ranking of team transfers, you could make a case for around eight or nine of 10 of the best incoming transfer classes going to the ACC or Big Ten. Georgetown is likely an exception to that —and they were the No. 1 incoming transfer class last offseason. Those programs loaded up like they always do. Syracuse might have the best, Notre Dame’s group has a similar vibe to the group that helped lead it to its first NCAA championship and teams like Ohio State and Rutgers have around double-digit incoming players.
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