Since my first evaluation of PJ Kennedy in September, his game has remained just as dominant, even against better competition. He put up 38 goals and 39 assists for Culver, the No. 3-ranked team in the country according to LaxNumbers. There is almost too much to mention with his game. He is physical, fast, and dangerous with either hand as a dodger, and he has a very high IQ when it comes to finishing on goalies.

All of those traits showed up at Maverik Showtime, where he was one of the top scorers throughout the event and again in the All-Star Game. One trait you really only see in top players is how well they understand leverage in their matchups. He is a big-bodied dodger who forces defenders to body up, and he uses that against them with subtle rockers, hitches, and by deceptively squeezing in shots before anticipated contact. That skill throws off goalies, too. At Showtime, he scored in a ton of different ways, using both hands, quick sticks, leaners, and with a variety of release points. All of those skills are going to have coaches, and me, putting him high on their big board.

One of the premier players in the 2028 class, PJ possesses the size, strength, and skill set to contend for the top overall spot in the class. A complete attackman, he can score from multiple levels, feed effectively, and move off-ball with precision. His competitiveness sets him apart; he plays with energy and focus, doing all the little things that contribute to his team’s success. PJ is also a strong rider who embraces every aspect of the game, showing a high lacrosse IQ and unselfish play within the system. Transferring to Culver Academy this year and also competing with the Texas Nationals, he continues to prove himself as one of the most productive and well-rounded offensive talents in the country.

Kennedy already plays like someone well beyond his class. He put up an eye-popping 123 points (64 goals, 59 assists) this past spring at Pope John Paul II in Tennessee. After an explosive summer, he transferred to Culver, where he’ll test himself against some of the best high school talent in the country. Kennedy’s game draws easy comparisons to JT Cross, the No. 1 player in the 2027 class.

At 6’2″, he looks like a man among boys, combining athleticism, creativity, and true two-handed ability to pile up points from any spot on the field. He scores in a variety of ways, making it look effortless, whether dodging, finishing inside, or creating plays for his teammates. Playing with Team USA this weekend will be his first big national spotlight before he suits up for Culver this spring—and it’s only the beginning of what should be a highly watched high school career.