The Denver Outlaws will head into the 2017 season without two of their staples on defense: Max Schmidt and Michael Skudin.

“Both defensemen played a key role in bringing our second MLL Championship to Denver,” said General Manager Tony Seaman. “We will miss both of them greatly and appreciate everything they have done for the Outlaws and the sport of lacrosse.”

The Ohio Machine drafted Schmidt in 2012 out of the University of Maryland. He played several season with the Machine, until being acquired by the Outlaws via trade in 2015. Over his career, Schmidt played in 63 career games, capturing 132 ground balls and six points.

Skudin was also drafted in 2012, out of Hofstra University where he played four seasons with the New York Lizards, until being traded to the Outlaws before the 2016 season. While in Denver, Skudin recorded 14 ground balls and one shot on goal.

“[They] were vital members in our championship seasons,” said Head Coach B.J. O’Hara. “They will be greatly missed and we wish them both the very best going forward.”

The Outlaws are set to kick of their season on Wednesday, March 22 against the Charlotte Hounds.

Photo courtesy of Denver Outlaws/Twitter