Panther City trades Benesch to Albany for Pearson plus picks

The expansion Panther City Lacrosse Club has traded veteran forward Ryan Benesch to the Albany FireWolves for Johnny Pearson, plus Albany’s 21st overall selection in the 2022 NLL Draft and their fourth-round pick in the 2023 NLL Draft.

Benesch was a bit of a surprise selection in the Panther City Expansion Draft back in June, but had committed to the team over the off season and appeared in PCLC’s first three games. He was by far the team’s most experienced & accomplished player and had registered 3 goals and 9 assists so far this season. He leaves Panther City tied for first in overall points with Mike Triolo.

Albany, who currently sit at 0-2, had yet to score more than single digits in losses to the Toronto Rock (9-10) and Rochester Knighthawks (7-16) last month.

The FireWolves, who lost leading scorer & MVP finalist Callum Crawford in free agency, had seemingly not replaced their leading-man’s statistics or offensive leadership heading into the 2021/22 season.

Benesch has previously played for Albany General Manager & Head Coach, Glenn Clark, during his rookie and second-year seasons with the Rock. Since those early years in Toronto, Benesch has scored in excess of 1,000 points, over 600 assists, and is nearing 500 goals in the NLL.

“We want to thank Ryan for his contributions on and off the floor, as he had a hand in shaping this team in his short time with our club,” PCLC Head Coach Tracey Kelusky said in a team statement earlier today. “Ryan is a consummate pro and teammate and is beloved by fans, coaches and staff, but we feel that this is the best move for both parties moving forward and we wish him nothing but success in his future.”

Pearson, who was previously picked up in a trade with the San Diego Seals, had yet to play for the FireWolves this year.