JUST IN: Rush General Manager Derek Keenan Discusses Off-Season Agreements and Team’s Future
The Saskatchewan Rush are gearing up for another exciting season in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), and General Manager Derek Keenan recently offered insights into the team’s off-season moves and its future prospects. With a track record of excellence, Keenan’s leadership continues to shape the Rush as they seek to return to championship contention.
This off-season has been all about making strategic moves to strengthen the Rush’s core. “We want to keep building around our strengths, but also address the areas where we fell short last season,” Keenan said. The Rush, known for their physicality and cohesive play, are making some changes to bolster their offensive and defensive capabilities. Keenan emphasized that it’s not just about bringing in talent, but also finding players who align with the team’s culture and work ethic.
One of the most notable agreements has been the signing of key players to long-term contracts, ensuring that the Rush maintain stability in their lineup. Keenan expressed satisfaction with the retention of some of the team’s most influential athletes, stating, “We believe in the group we have, and it’s important for us to keep that chemistry intact. Bringing back our key guys was a priority, and we’re happy with how things turned out.”
Beyond re-signing core players, the team also made a few significant acquisitions that Keenan believes will have an immediate impact. “We added some young talent through the draft and brought in experienced players who can contribute right away,” he said. Keenan’s strategy has always been about balance—adding youthful energy while keeping a seasoned presence on the floor. This combination, he believes, is the key to finding long-term success.
Keenan also spoke about the importance of building depth across all positions. Injuries can be a major factor throughout a grueling NLL season, and having reliable players ready to step in is essential. “Our depth is something we’re focused on improving. We want to be in a position where, if someone goes down, we have guys who can step up without missing a beat,” Keenan explained.
Looking ahead, Keenan is optimistic about the Rush’s chances. The general manager acknowledged the challenges of last season but believes the team is better prepared to face what lies ahead. “We learned a lot from last year, and I think those lessons will help us grow. We’re excited about what we’ve put together, and we can’t wait to get back out there.”
With a mixture of experienced leaders and fresh talent, the Rush are poised to compete at the highest level in the upcoming season. Fans can expect a renewed sense of purpose as the team takes to the field, driven by Keenan’s strategic vision and determination to bring another championship to Saskatchewan.