N-L-L Season May by 5-6 Months Away, But Rush Sign 2 More Players

The Saskatchewan Rush announced the signing of two more players Friday, about five-to-six months in advance of the 2021-22 N-L-L season.

Both defender Holden Garlent and forward Austin Murphy agreed to terms on one-year contracts with Saskatchewan. Following are the news releases from the Rush…..

June 11, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MURPHY EARNS ONE MORE YEAR WITH RUSH

Forward Austin Murphy has agreed to new one-year contract with the Saskatchewan Rush, pending league approval, in a deal that was announced today by Rush General Manager Derek Keenan.

Murphy is a late-blooming prospect, but has nonetheless become an integral part of the Rush heading into the 2021 season. The Orillia, Ontario, native was a fourth-round pick back in 2017 and didn’t get into a regular-season NLL game until last season, yet he showed his value quickly. Murphy registered two goals and two assists in just three games last season while becoming a valuable tool in the Rush attack.

“When Austin finally cracked the Rush lineup in the shortened 2020 season, I think he proved he belongs in the NLL,” noted Keenan. “He’s a gritty, quick forward with a nice touch around the net.”

The 5-foot-10, 175-pounder was the all-time leading scorer with 228 points at Wingate University where he was named the South Athletic Conference’s Freshman of the Year in 2014. Murphy was named the Arena Lacrosse League’s Rookie of the Year in 2018, leading the league with 37 goals and 83 points. He led the playoffs with nine goals and guided the Whitby Steelhawks to the league title.

June 11, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOLDEN ON FOR ONE MORE YEAR

The Saskatchewan Rush have signed defender Holden Garlent to a one-year deal. Garlent was selected by the Rush 4th overall in the 2019 entry draft. During his time with the Saskatchewan Rush, he scored 1 goal and added 1 assist in 10 games played during the shortened 2020 season.

General Manager Derek Keenan had this to say about the signing: “When I think of all the great D-transition players who have worn the Rush uniform over the years, I look at Holden Garlent as a player who has the potential to fit that mold.” He’s fast, strong and athletic with really good instincts. He’s a loose ball hound and makes good decisions in transition and has shown some finish. I look forward to watching his continuing development and to making an impact this coming season.”