It isn’t a coincidence. The Philadelphia Wings continue trading since beginning their run at the Wells Fargo Center in the 2022-2023 season. Since coming off the road to start the season, a 2-1 trip, they’re 0-3 on their home floor.
The Wings are not able to put a complete game together. It’s resulted in recent losses. The lineup plays smoother lacrosse, especially in the first halves against Panther City Lacrosse Club and the Buffalo Bandits. The latest trade leans into possession as nine-tenths of the law.
In the last three games, Philadelphia was on the defensive side of long scoring runs that defined a loss. During the home opener, Panther City totaled ten goals in the second half, earning the 12-10 comeback win. In the early home affair versus the Toronto Rock, Angus Goodleaf relieved Zach Higgins during a thirteen-goal run between the final minute of the first quarter through the first five minutes of the fourth, a 14-5 thrashing. Last week, the Bandits completed a comeback similar to Panther City, scoring ten goals in the second half to win 13-9. These trends make yesterday’s trade a curious one.
Paul Day opted to trade defense for offense. The idea is to increase scoring, especially the powerplay, which got away from the Wings in their recent loss to Buffalo.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our team; to be able to pick up Mitch Jones. Jones is a number one lefty forward and is a big, strong, athletic player that makes everyone around him better. He will instantly make us a better team and be a major asset on the powerplay.”
Paul Day; 1/31/2023
Jones enters the Wings roster as the leading scorer. Amassing 35 points (11G, 24A) in seven games, he surpasses Joe Resetarits. His 11 goals tie him with Ben McIntosh, but 24 assists make him the top playmaker. That’s precisely where Day believes Jones will be a prime asset in the powerplay.
Additionally, Jones scooped 42 loose balls this season. That puts him in third place, behind Chad Tutton and Trevor Baptiste. In terms of offense and possession, Jones is a clear upgrade.
Charbonneau spent his career to date in Philadelphia. He became focused on the defensive aspect of his position over the growth of his career, dropping off in offensive production. Charbonneau is coming off his best defensive season in the NLL, rewarded with a playoff berth. Vancouver looks at Charbonneau as the defensive backbone they require in a rebuild three weeks after Dan Richardson stepped down as GM. The associated draft picks acquired with Charbonneau will assist.
“Today’s move is about building for the future, and we are excited to add a first and second-round pick along with a high-end defender in Steph Charbonneau. This will help us in shaping a strong culture moving forward.”
Troy Cordingley; 1/31/2023
Day added about Charbonneau:
“Charbs is a true professional and has been [a] great Wing from day one in the new era of the Wings. We thank him for everything he did and wish him the best of luck in Vancouver.”
Paul Day; 1/31/2023
On Saturday, February 4th, 2023, the Albany Firewolves visit the Wings. Jones expects to fit into the lineup immediately.
(Photo Credit/Alex McIntyre)
