The Maryland Whipsnakes might have ended their 2024 season with a tough loss to the Archers in the PLL Championship game, but Whipsnake faithfuls have a lot to look forward to. The team is turning the page on their roster of the past and relying on many new faces to build the Whipsnakes up for years to come. This shift in direction is very similar to what the Archers did two years ago and that very clearly has worked out for them.
You could argue that the Whipsnakes are the most historic team in PLL history, despite the league’s short existence. As one of the original six franchises when the league launched in 2019, the Whips quickly made a name for themselves by winning the first two championships in 2019 and 2020, and reaching the championship game in 2021. Those first two championships carried a ton of weight, but the team hit a wall in 2023, finishing with a disappointing 4-6 record. This did not discourage Jim Stagnitta, who picked up Ajax Zappitello and TJ Malone with his first two selections in the 2024 PLL Draft.
Stagnitta has proven to be consistently the best coach in the PLL, especially when it comes to adapting his teams when needed. Outside of that 2023 season, he’s done a masterful job constructing rosters and adjusting game plans on the fly. You could see that again this past season, as the team started off on rocky footing with some ugly losses. Stagnitta made a smart mid-season move, acquiring Levi Anderson from the California Redwoods in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round draft pick. Levi proved to add some much-needed depth to the Whipsnakes roster.
Now, let’s look ahead to next season. It’s early to make predictions, but there’s a lot to like about this Whipsnakes team. First off, this team now revolves around TJ Malone. Without a doubt, he was the steal of the draft. The 2024 Rookie of the Year turned heads this season, notching 37 points on the year—not bad for a rookie. But he won’t be doing it alone next year; Tucker Dordevic will be back after sitting out this past season due to injury. The 2023 Rookie of the Year and All-Star brings some much-needed help to the midfield and will be a fun watch alongside Malone. The identity of this team has shifted away from Rambo and Williams, and now it sits on Malone and Dordevic. It’s not that Rambo and Williams won’t contribute; the weight is just off their shoulders, so they can now play a more supportive role instead of carrying the offense.
That’s just the offense as the defensive unit is looking solid too. A close defense lineup featuring Ajax Zappitello, Tim Muller, and Matt Dunn boasts a Terrapin connection that no other team has. Nardella has been one of the most consistent faceoff specialists in the league and shows no sign of slowing down. But perhaps the most important piece of the puzzle will be Brendan Krebs, who will only improve with another year under his belt between the pipes. This team has all the pieces to make a run at the championship next year, and any additions in the draft will just be adding to an already potent arsenal. Unlike some other teams in the PLL, the Whipsnakes don’t have any glaring holes to fill, especially once Dordevic returns.
All eyes should be on the Whipsnakes heading into 2025. With a reloaded roster, a top-tier coach in Stagnitta, and a blend of fresh talent and experienced leadership, they’re poised to make a serious push for the top of the Eastern Conference. This squad has the potential to be a powerhouse for years to come.
