For the past three postseasons, the Buffalo Bandits and Toronto Rock have met in the NLL semifinals. The past two postseasons, the Bandits have won the championship.
Buffalo carried a perfect 6-0 record into another game against Toronto in the latest episode of what has become one of the best rivalries in lacrosse, and came through with a 13-12 victory on Friday night.
The Bandits' quest for a three-peat is resonating around the league.
"The Bandits continue to elevate the standard for excellence in the NLL, and the possibility of a three-peat only adds to the excitement, intensity and competitiveness of our league," NLL commissioner Brett Frood said. "An extended championship run like this highlights the incredible talent and dedication that defines the NLL."
The list of professional teams that have pulled off a three-peat is short -- and hasn't added a new member since the 2000-02 Los Angeles Lakers.
"Anytime you're mentioned in the same conversation as teams like the Bulls, Islanders, Canadiens, or any other team that has three-peated, it's an honor and something to be proud of," said Scott Loffler, Bandits senior director of lacrosse operations and alternate governor. "But right now, our focus is on winning the next game ahead."
Buffalo's next game is Saturday, Feb. 22 against the San Diego Seals.