Well you had to expect that the Roughnecks would do something at the deadline, after suffering through what can only be described as a disappointing first half.

However, even given that, yesterday’s blockbuster that sees Lewis Ratcliff head to Toronto in exchange for Josh Sanderson is somewhat a shocker.

Ratcliff has spent his entire NLL career in Calgary, and in the process became the club’s all-time leader in goals, assists and points. He is one of the best trigger-men in the league in terms of finishing off plays, but is also capable of creating his own offense. He’s also led the club in scoring for the last 3 seasons.

But to get quality you have to give quality, and this is the type of blockbuster involving two elite players that you rarely see in other sports, another reason why the NLL continues to be a refreshing change from other pro leagues. How often do you see all-stars traded for all-stars in the NHL, MLB, NBA or NFL? Rarely if ever.

In Sanderson the Roughnecks get back an equally impressive offensive weapon, though of a different breed. While Ratcliff is the finisher, Sanderson is one of the game’s best playmakers, something the Riggers have sorely missed for the bulk of the season, due to Tracey Keluwsky’s ongoing concussion problems. Sanderson’s credentials are well established highlighted by his single season record for assists and 2007 season when he led the league in scoring.

It will be interesting to see how the Roughnecks offense changes after this deal. Keluwsky has been the quarterback on this team for years…what happens when he returns? Frankly it’s a nice problem to have and the ultimate benefactors will be those on the receiving end of all those ‘purdy passes’ including Scott Ranger, Curt Malawsky and Kaleb Toth. Ranger is already enjoying a great season, but Toth need to step his game up now that Ratcliff is gone.

Overall, Kurt Silcott may have simply made this deal to change the chemistry of his struggling team. Looking at the numbers in isolation, scoring has not been a problem this year. But anyone that has watched this team, knows of their problems in the fourth quarter, and inability to get the big goal when needed.

That’s not the fault of Ratcliff alone, but if you are looking for a reason for Silcott pulled the trigger on this deal…I would suggest that is a big part of it.

By the way, our next broadcast will be Saturday April 12 when the Roughnecks host Edmonton Rush. That game could be huge if Edmonton manages to upset Calgary up the QE2 this Saturday. We’ll come to you live from the Pengrowth Saddledome about 30 minutes following the game, or you can download it the next day from this site.

I suspect we will try to get Kurt Silcott on the show with us to talk about the stretch drive, as well as the big deal he’s made. Who knows…maybe we can also get Sanderson himself on to chat as well. We always welcome your input on the show via our chat room, or by email. Hope you can join us.

In this episode, hosts Grant Farhall and Ryan Ballantine discuss the Roughnecks 11-6 loss to the Colorado Mammoth. Head Coach Troy Cordingley, All-star Jeff Shattler and Dave Rowe of the Fan 960 all drop in to discuss the game. It was the worst offensive output of the season and tied a franchise record low for goals scored.

 

 Standard Podcast [54:43m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download