Buffalo Bandits vs. Desert Dogs: Watch Live, Lineups, and Key Storylines
The Buffalo Bandits are preparing for a significant game against the Las Vegas Desert Dogs at KeyBank Center. This matchup is part of the Tucker Out Lymphoma Night, highlighting the fight against cancer and honoring Tucker Williams. The game is scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m., and fans can purchase tickets online.
Key Highlights of Tucker Out Lymphoma Night
This event marks the opening of the Tucker Out Lymphoma Cup, a three-game series during the 2025-26 season, also involving the Oshawa FireWolves. Fans can engage in various activities such as jersey auctions and sweepstakes. A special ceremony during the third quarter will involve fans filling out “Braver Than Brave” placards.
Coach John Tavares’ Perspective
Bandits coach John Tavares expressed the significance of this event, emphasizing its emotional impact on the community. “It’s bigger than the game itself,” Tavares stated. “It brings the lacrosse community together for a great reason.”
Last Game Performance
The Bandits recently secured a 13-7 victory against the Calgary Roughnecks. Buffalo executed a strong second-half strategy, scoring eight of the final eleven goals. Notable players Dhane Smith and Josh Byrne contributed to this effort despite being held scoreless until the third quarter.
Offensive Strategy Adjustments
In pursuit of a “winning combination,” Tavares switched from using eight forwards and eight defensemen to a lineup featuring seven forwards and nine defensemen. This change enhanced both ball movement and scoring opportunities. Tavares focused on creating unison within the team, particularly in the second half.
Player Contributions
- Dhane Smith: Finished with a hat trick and nine points.
- Josh Byrne: Added a goal and seven assists.
- Nick Weiss: Recorded his first multi-goal game since 2023.
Matchup Against the Desert Dogs
The Bandits aim for a quicker start against the Desert Dogs, a team that has only allowed four first-quarter goals across three games. Continuing their “attacking by committee” approach will be essential.
Viewing Options
- TV Broadcast (Buffalo market): CW23
- Streaming: ESPN+
- Radio: WGR550 AM
Lineup Changes
As of the latest update, forward Ryan Benesch has been placed on injured reserve. Defenseman Zack Belter is set to join the active roster. Belter could make his debut this season after previously participating in 14 regular-season games and all playoff games in 2024-25.
Desert Dogs Overview
This match also brings former Bandits Chase Fraser and Chris Cloutier back to Buffalo. Fraser has contributed five goals and five assists this season, while Cloutier has amassed 15 points. The Desert Dogs are also reinforced by leading scorer Mitch Jones, who has 19 points, and faceoff specialist Tyrell Hamer-Jackson, boasting a faceoff win percentage of 68.3.
Tavares’ Take on the Desert Dogs
“Vegas is playing very confident,” Tavares noted. The addition of Fraser, Cloutier, and Jones has significantly strengthened their offensive capabilities. This match promises to be a competitive showdown as both teams vie for the win.
