This week in the LaxAllStars‘ NLL Power Rankings the Swarm reclaimed the top spot in the NLL, moving up three spots — the same three spots they dropped last weekend — in decided fashion. They made a mockery of the Rush in the first half of their Sunday matchup and held on to seal the deal. The Rush, however, didn’t suffer that much of a drop in the standings and take the number three slot. Toronto stays consistent, maintaining the number two spot while the Bandits (although falling 18-13 to Rochester in the I-90 rivalry) move up one spot with a 15-5 stifling performance against New England.



Photo: Micheline V/ Rochester Knighthawks

The biggest (and most significant) surprise was San Diego moving up a spot in the NLL Power Rankings, despite being on a bye (they don’t play again until February 8) as well as continuing to own first place in the West. The biggest loser of the weekend was New England — dropping three spots — who couldn’t muster much against a Bandits squad that was looking to take their aggression out on anyone and everyone. And it is still anyone’s guess as to whether the bottom of the pack can get their act together for a push later in the season as a desperate Vancouver overcame a solid Mammoth effort in OT, while Philadelphia couldn’t hold onto a the lead against the league-leading Rock.



This weekend, New England looks to gain back some ground against the Swarm in the standings, Saskatchewan takes on the Rock in what will prove to be a big test for both, and Vancouver looks to continue its run at the win column with back-to-backs against Calgary and San Diego.

NLL Power Rankings: Week 8