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Hello, all members of the ECL Community! We have had a long ongoing discussion about the X-Factors and Abilities and whether they should be allowed in a competitive environment or not. It has been enlightening to see and hear all the different opinions on this matter on the public forums, party chats, and private messages. We thank you all for taking part in this discussion! Looking closely at the situation, all the abilities have a way to make or break the game - in one way or another - and those effects can go both ways, whether you are or aren't allowed to use them. Abilities allow you to do things that you wouldn't or perhaps even shouldn't be able to do in certain situations, but they also reward you for making good plays, good passes, and timing your actions correctly. Playing without abilities can take away a lot of those rewards and may leave you frustrated because of that. One of the big concerns about banning all the abilities is that it could lead to a much more passive playstyle on defense. Of course, you are still able to score in many different ways, but it is a fact that some things in this game are built around the abilities and the animations they allow you to trigger. Abilities at their best can create these "wow!" moments for both the players and the viewers. It's worth mentioning that the discussion has mostly been around the gameplay experience, but we also want to take the viewers into account, even though currently most of them are you, the players. It is also to be stated that we want to keep the same ruleset for all the ECL divisions. While we see that the opinions are heavily divided between the players from different skill levels, the structure has always aimed to make it possible for teams to climb the division ladder all the way from the bottom to the top. Different rulesets could create a huge barrier between the divisions, which would be against our core values. We don't think either end of the extremes would necessarily result in a bad gameplay experience, but there are a lot of players on each side of the conversation and a compromise between the main two parties feels like the best way to go forward. Based on the community feedback and after an internal discussion we have decided on the following ability restrictions for the ECL '25: Spring season: All Gold X-Factors will be banned for both skaters and goaltenders Activating the Gold X-Factors doesn't require you to spend any XP points for certain traits and it allows you to have the abilities of a superstar even if your actual ability stats e.g. on a shooting skill would say otherwise. This change also brings the number of usable abilities down from 3 to 2. When you need the skill points to use the Superstar abilities, it will require you to carefully think about where to place those scarcely available skill points, and whether you want to focus on offense, defense, or somewhere between. With the removal of the Gold X-Factors, the balance between offense, defense, and goaltending should also stay similar to what we're already used to. The following X-Factors and Superstar abilities will be completely banned The following X-Factors are deemed too powerful even in their silver state and will be banned completely. Big Tipper This ability helps players in front of the net to deflect pucks with ultimate precision. This is the one ability almost everyone seems to agree doesn't belong in a competitive environment, due to the usage requiring little to no skill and being so efficient. Truculence This ability gives you exceptional stability and assists on shoulder checks and greatly increases the chance of knocking over the opponent and sapping their energy. Truculence breaks the game in a few different ways. It slows down the game due to the energy loss and long animations to get back up. It enables you to hit from too far away and from impossible angles, no matter which size player build is being used. You can still hit without truculence but without it, a better understanding of when a hit should be made will be required. Stick 'em up This ability gives you phenomenal defensive stick speed and exceptional accuracy when poke-checking against momentum or at speed while also lowering the chance of a penalty. The game already has a very strong auto-aim built into poke-checking whether you use this ability or not. The ability allows you to spam the stick check without much worry of getting penalized for it. It also allows you to reach the puck from too far away and from impossible angles. Why are the Regional Leagues played without abilities? There was a large group of players who made their voices heard with the so-called "#BanThemAll" messages that were going around after the announcement of the ability bans for the ECL '25: Winter season. As there was no conversation indicating a change in opinion around this subject, we wanted to give the players a chance to try it out in a competitive environment the regional tournaments that were next on the schedule felt like the be the best place to do that. We understand that the timing of this "test period" was far from ideal, especially with the biggest league FCL starting later than we were originally aiming for. We decided to have the same ruleset for all the Regional Leagues, because we wanted all teams and regions to have an equal chance to experience the gameplay without abilities and prepare for the upcoming ECL Season. Our communication of this should have been clearer, but ultimately it was a timing issue with the leagues running at different times. Why was there no community vote? While we understand that there is a big argument to have a vote for this decision, we believe in practice it would not be the best way to go. If we look at some of the unofficial polling results that have been circulating, they show that most people voting were against any kind of change compared to the ECL '25: Winter season. In one specific poll around 130-140 players out of around 650 people on the server voted, even though the server could be considered to consist of some of the most active members in the community. The ongoing public discussions have been very "top-heavy" regarding what division the players play in and this was also reflected in the polling. The higher up you go in divisions, the players tend to be more active and we expect that would also be reflected in a community vote. To actually reach the whole community would be a huge task on its own, and there would still be a big majority of players that the possible vote would not reach, especially given the often narrow time frame. The flip side of the coin is, that even if we would reach all players and have them vote anonymously, we have no way to verify if they have actually looked into all the intricacies of the matter or if they're just casting their vote based on what someone else told them to vote for. This is why we prefer to have an open and constructive dialogue where we collaboratively try to get into the details and thoughts behind the opinions and experiences within our community. What to expect from future decisions? We understand from the feedback that we've been lacking in communication regarding this issue. Communication is our main goal to improve along with reacting quicker to possible changes and make the process smoother overall. Whether it is at the start of the game cycle when something has radically changed, or in the middle of the year when some issue has been raised, we want to react quicker and give the players enough time to adjust for the tournaments. We're very thankful for all the feedback we've received and we warmly welcome any future feedback or suggestions! Best regards, League Administration

In an effort to boost our editorial coverage outside the realm of division-specific ECL content, we've enlisted NHL.com/sv writer, and long-time ECL player, Hampus Duvefelt (l-Furyan-l) to provide a series of special columns for SportsGamer.GG throughout the NHL 26 cycle. This is the first edition. KEEPING A TEAM TOGETHER If there is one thing I’ve learned during all my years in the NHL community, it is that keeping a team together for any duration of time is hard work. Whether it be due to arguments, fading chemistry, personal reasons or just a need for a fresh voice in the party, teams rarely look the same at the end of a game cycle as they did at the beginning of it. In some ways, change is the one constant in the unpredictable world of NHL gaming. In fact, one could argue an “NHL Year” is not entirely unlike a dog year, where in one game cycle, it can feel like you’ve lived through multiple years’ worth of transfers, roster changes and teams disbanding. Having been a captain or assistant captain for the majority of my soon-to-be decade on this platform, I’ve seen my fair share of exists – good and bad. I’ve been caught blindsided by players leaving at the worst possible times, I’ve had to tell unsuspecting players they were being let go (for various reasons) and I’ve had heartfelt interactions with players where we both agreed it was time for a change. I’ve also had a hand in closing down teams entirely, same as I’ve been a part of starting new projects. I’ve had players “poached” from me, with them agreeing to join other teams when they were still on my roster – sometimes even mid-tournament. And, in the interest of full disclosure as to not try and portray myself as some type of saint; I’ve agreed to join teams – or made plans for new projects – while I was still part of another team. The NHL scene has historically flirted with professional organizations and guaranteed contracts but as it stands that is the exception and not the norm. So, in a business that is... not really a business, but more like a (semi-professional) hobby where a contract is signed through a virtual handshake over Discord and a transfer is never more than a well-timed DM pitch away, how do you go about keeping a team together? Here’s what I’ve learned The main thing is to create an environment where players feel comfortable, enjoy “coming to the rink” and feel like their expectations are being met. Whether those expectations are on-ice success, a high level of activity or just a positive gaming experience, it is important to tailor your approach to the players you have. Are you with a group of IRL friends with no previous EASHL experience who are just starting out together? Perhaps don’t yell at them on a daily basis to get their shit together and to up their playing level (sorry, FCM teammates of ECL 1-3)... Are you with a group of hungry, talented 18-year-olds who want to win a championship and are willing to put in the time to do so? Make sure you keep both activity levels and accountability high. And if you’re with a group of (slightly) older players, with jobs, families and other responsibilities that take up their time, make sure to listen to their feedback and try to tailor your gaming sessions to their availability. But the main thing I wanted to share, and really the reason why I decided to write this whole thing, is some advice I received a few years ago from one of the greatest leaders I ever played with. Advice that I listened to at the time, but didn’t fully understand until more recently. And I’m paraphrasing here because it has been a while. He told me to always try and create a team environment where players want to be. Where they feel like they are achieving something just by being a part of the roster. A team that others scramble to play for. A team whose reputation – at least as spread by the players on it, past and present – is undeniably great. There will always be haters on the outside, but if you can create a team environment where starters, backups and loan players alike all feel like they are having the time of their lives, you’ve set yourself up for success. But his most important lesson was this; learn to accept that players are going to want to move on – and cheer them on when they do. Even in the best team environment humanly possible, you are going to have players move on. And here’s the kicker, it doesn’t matter what their reasons for wanting to leave are. It doesn’t matter if it’s wanting more success, wanting a less ‘tryhard’ environment, wanting to play with IRL friends or just wanting a fresh start. In a world without guaranteed contracts, you can never keep a player from leaving, so don’t get frustrated or judge them for it when they do. Learn to let go Of course, it is never a bad thing to ask a departing player why they are leaving or to ask for their feedback if there is something you or the team could have done differently. Listen, and learn from it. But if they’ve decided to leave, that’s that. And that’s okay. Sure, there are both good and bad ways to exit a team, and no one is immune to having an emotional reaction to a player transfer. I certainly am not. But in the end, if you know in your heart of hearts you’ve done the absolute best you can in trying to create a team environment that people want to be a part of, then there is no point in dwelling on it. Or... you could just, you know, win title after title after title. After title. I hear that’s a neat trick too!

🏒 Introduction The ECL Pro Division Playoffs are here, and with them comes a thrilling slate of first-round matchups that promise everything from offensive fireworks to tactical chess matches. Whether it's star-studded rosters chasing glory, underdog stories aiming to shock the league, or old rivalries reigniting on the virtual ice — this playoff round has it all. In this preview, we break down every series, highlight key players, expose tactical edges, and offer bold predictions from some of the community’s sharpest analysts. Buckle up — the road to ECL greatness begins now. PLAYOFFS SCHEDULE Playoffs (BO7) Round of 16: Monday 26.5 Tuesday 27.5 Thursday 29.5 Quarterfinals: Monday 2.6 Tuesday 3.6 Thursday 5.6 Semifinals: Monday 9.6 Tuesday 10.6 Thursday 12.6 Finals: 16.6- 17.6* Promotion & Relegation games are to be played shortly after the season, however, dates are flexible. * Dates are subject to change as broadcast productions are confirmed. Afterlife vs. Setelikerho : A Playoff Showdown to Watch After a rollercoaster regular season, the underdog Setelikerho has earned a first-round playoff matchup against the powerhouse Afterlife, one of the top-performing teams in the regular season. Setelikerho’s knack for upsetting giants while occasionally stumbling against lower-ranked teams has made them a wildcard in this series. Their gritty, opportunistic style contrasts sharply with Afterlife’s polished, high-octane game, setting the stage for a clash of philosophies. This series promises fast-paced action, tactical battles, and a test of whether experience or momentum will prevail. Setelikerho: The Giant Slayers Setelikerho’s journey to the playoffs has been anything but conventional. The Finnish squad, known for their relentless work ethic and cohesive team play, managed to steal crucial points from top-tier teams during the regular season. However, inconsistency against bottom-feeders exposed vulnerabilities that Afterlife will undoubtedly target. What makes Setelikerho dangerous is their veteran core, bringing elite playoff experience to the Pro divison. Players like forward @tbnantti, a clutch performer with a knack for game-changing goals, and defenseman @Tanski87, a shutdown blueliner with a booming shot, give Setelikerho the tools to disrupt Afterlife’s rhythm. The Finns thrive in high-pressure environments, often elevating their game when the stakes are highest. Their trap system is aggressive, aiming to force turnovers and capitalize on quick transitions. If Setelikerho can find their groove and maintain discipline while exploiting Afterlife’s occasional overconfidence, they could pull off a stunning upset and advance to the second round. The key will be their goaltender, @Jugi9, whose acrobatic saves and cool-headedness under pressure have bailed out the team in tight games. A hot goalie can steal a series, and Jugu has the pedigree to do just that. Afterlife: The Favorites Under Scrutiny Afterlife, hailing from Sweden (mostly), dominated the regular season with a blend of skill, speed, and depth that overwhelmed opponents. Finishing among the league’s elite, they enter the playoffs with sky-high expectations to not only win this series but to make a deep run. Their roster boasts a formidable forward group, with all players amassing 70+ points in the regular season. The addition of @SebbeLarsen86 , a dynamic playmaker with a knack for unpredictable passes has elevated their offense to another level. His ability to thread the needle in tight spaces makes Afterlife’s power play a lethal weapon. However, Afterlife’s relative lack of playoff experience could be their Achilles’ heel. While their regular-season dominance showcased their talent, the postseason is a different beast, where physicality, mental toughness, and adaptability often trump raw skill. The Swedes’ flashy style, coupled with a bold social media presence (by @Azzez_88) that’s both entertaining and polarizing, has painted a target on their backs. Setelikerho will look to exploit any signs of overconfidence if Afterlife’s young stars struggle to handle the playoff grind. Afterlife’s depth scoring is a major asset. Unlike many teams that rely on one or two stars, their balanced attack means anyone can erupt on a given night. This versatility makes them hard to game-plan against, as Setelikerho’s penalty kill will need to be airtight to neutralize Afterlife’s multi-faceted offense. If Afterlife can maintain their regular-season form and avoid early mistakes, they could overwhelm Setelikerho and fulfill expectations of a sweep or a gentleman’s sweep (4-1 series win). Tactical Breakdown Power Play: Afterlife’s power play is a well-oiled machine, converting at 28,3% during the regular season. @SebbeLarsen86’s vision and pinpoint passing create chaos in the offensive zone, while sniper @Bobban-21- buries one-timers from the slot. Setelikerho’s power play, while less prolific at 22.5%, relies on quick puck movement and deflections, with @Tehhola6837 often tipping shots from the crease. Penalty Kill: Setelikerho’s penalty kill is achilles heel, operating at an 74,47% success rate. With Afterlife's prowess on the powerplay, they will see some success. Goaltending: This could be the series’ deciding factor. @Monnig (juge9) (77,62%) save percentage and ability to steal games give Setelikerho an edge in net. Afterlife’s goaltender, @Bystrom_33 posted a 77% save percentage but has yet to face the intensity of playoff hockey. His composure will be tested early. Pace and Style: Both teams play fast, puck-moving hockey, but their approaches differ. Setelikerho’s game is built on capitalizing on mistakes, while Afterlife prefers controlled zone entries and cycling to create high-danger chances. The team that imposes its tempo will likely control the series. Key Players to Watch Setelikerho: @tbnantti – The veteran forward’s ability to score timely goals and lead by example will be crucial. His goal-scoring touch on the powerplay could tilt special teams in Setelikerho’s favor. Afterlife: @SebbeLarsen86 – The newcomer’s playmaking sets the tone for Afterlife’s offense. If he can unlock Setelikerho’s defensive structure, Afterlife will be tough to stop. Prediction This series has all the makings of a classic. Setelikerho’s experience and goaltending give them a fighting chance, but Afterlife’s depth and offensive firepower are hard to overcome. Expect a tightly contested battle, with Setelikerho pushing the pace early to test Afterlife’s resolve. If @Monnig (juge9) stands on his head, the Finns could extend the series to six or seven games. However, Afterlife’s ability to score in bunches and exploit special teams should ultimately prove decisive. Series Prediction: @hifk_FANI : Afterlife in 5 (4-1). @Pekedipeks : Afterlife in 6 (4-2). @jm98II : Setelikerho in 6 (4-2). @Pensasmies : Afterlife in 5 (4-1). For the Fans If you’re tuning in, expect end-to-end action, highlight-reel goals, and momentum swings that keep you on the edge of your seat. This series is a must-watch for anyone who loves teamwork, speed, and the raw emotion of playoff hockey. Whether you’re rooting for the underdog Finns or the favored Swedes, one thing is certain: Afterlife vs. Setelikerho will deliver a spectacle worth watching. Pirates vs. Carnages : A Playoff Showdown of Offense vs Defense This is the time for an electrifying playoff matchup in the Pro Division as the high-octane offense of Pirates eSports clashes with the suffocating defense of Carnages. This series promises to be a classic battle of contrasting styles, with Pirates looking to overwhelm their opponents with firepower and Carnages aiming to grind out victories through resilience and structure. Fans are in for a treat as these two teams battle for supremacy in a series that could define their seasons. Pirates: The Offensive Juggernaut Pirates eSports made waves in the offseason with a bold roster overhaul, and the gamble has paid dividends. Boasting the most potent offense in the Pro Division, they’ve steamrolled opponents throughout the regular season, averaging over four goals per game. Their dynamic attack, led by superstar center/winger @AdriF_23, has propelled them into the playoffs as a team no one saw coming. With a revamped lineup and a hunger to prove themselves, Pirates are poised to make a deep postseason run. The French phenom @AdriF_23 is the heartbeat of this team. Topping the division with an astonishing 116 points (46 goals, 70 assists), he showcased his versatility by dominating at center while also controlling the playmaking. His linemate, Central European star @Winci-_o, assists him perfectly on the wing. With 95 points (50 goals, 45 assists), ranking third in the division, @Winci-_o has been a lethal scoring threat. Together, they form one of the most dangerous duos in the league, capable of dismantling any defense with their speed, chemistry, and finishing. Rounding out the top line is @Jullee99, a gritty winger who adds physicality and defensive responsibility to the mix. His 72 points (33 goals, 39 assists) don’t tell the full story of his impact, as his ability to win puck battles and create space for his linemates has been crucial to Pirates’ success. With a deep supporting cast, including playmaking defenseman @Tromi13 (46 points), Pirates have the firepower to overwhelm even the stingiest defenses. Carnages: The Defensive Wall On the other side, Carnages enter the series as underdogs but with a chip on their shoulder. Known for their ability to wear down opponents, Carnages thrive in low-scoring, physical games. Their defensive structure, anchored by goaltender @Fin_S1su , has been their calling card, allowing one of the fewest goals per game in the regular season (2.38). This Finnish squad is built for the postseason, where every goal is magnified, and their disciplined approach could spell trouble for Pirates’ high-flying attack. Carnages’ regular season was not without its challenges. Scoring only 79 goals (15th among playoff teams), they struggled to generate consistent offense. However, the midseason acquisition of @Aarons _ has given them a much-needed spark. The versatile forward contributed 14 points (5 goals, 9 assists) in six games, providing a secondary scoring threat alongside veteran @Kansan-edustaja (49 points). If Carnages can capitalize on their chances and keep Pirates’ offense in check, they have the potential to pull off an upset. At the back, @Kansan-edustaja is the player to watch. His .930 save percentage and calm demeanor under pressure make him a brick wall in net. Supported by shutdown defenseman @Nagneigel and @Saukkis923 (JAMJAM923), Carnages have the tools to frustrate Pirates’ stars. Their game plan will likely focus on clogging the neutral zone, forcing turnovers, and limiting high-danger chances, a strategy that worked against top offenses all season. The Matchup: Fire vs Ice This series is a textbook clash of styles. Pirates will look to push the pace, using their speed and skill to create odd-man rushes and capitalize on power plays. Their red-hot power play (32.65%) could be a game-changer since Carnages take penalties quite a lot (113, 4th among all playoff teams in regular season). Conversely, Carnages will aim to slow the game down, relying on their penalty kill (85.2%, third in the league) and physical play to disrupt Pirates’ rhythm. The key battle will be in the trenches. Can Carnages’ defense, led by @Nagneigel , neutralize Pirates’ top line? Will @AdriF_23and @Winci-_o find ways to exploit gaps in Carnages’ system? Goaltending will also play a pivotal role. While @Fin_S1su has been a rock for Carnages, Pirates’ @Horys20 (2.28 GAA) will need to step up against a team that thrives on counterattacks. Key Players to Watch Carnages: @Fin_S1su The goaltender’s ability to stand tall against Pirates’ barrage of shots will be critical. His clutch saves could swing the series in Carnages’ favor. Pirates eSports: @AdriF_23 The division’s leading scorer is a game-breaker. If he finds his rhythm, Carnages’ defense will have their hands full. Predictions This series will be a tough one for the Finns. The French side will be difficult to stop and @Fin_S1su needs a miracle to make the upset. @hifk_FANI : Pirates in 5 (4-1) @Pekedipeks : Pirates in 6 (4-2) @jm98II : Pirates in 4 (4-0) @Pensasmies : Pirates in 6 (4-2) For The Fans This series is a must-watch for esports fans. Pirates’ dazzling offense will light up the scoreboard, but Carnages’ stubborn defense and playoff mentality make them a dangerous foe. Whether you’re rooting for goals galore or a masterclass in defensive hockey, this matchup has it all. Tune in to see if Pirates’ stars shine brightest or if Carnages prove that defense truly wins championships. Vizio vs. Sawolanche : A Playoff Showdown Packed with Potential This particular matchup might not scream blockbuster at first glance, but don’t let the stat sheets fool you, this clash between Vizio and Sawolanche promises to be one of the most gripping battles of the ECL Pro Division first round in ECL Pro! Unlike other series where one team might hold a clear edge, this one is a true toss-up, with both squads bringing unique strengths and compelling narratives to the virtual ice. Expect tight, low-scoring games, clutch plays, and a series that could hinge on a single turnover or a moment of brilliance. Sawolanche: The Upstart Underdogs Sawolanche embodies the classic underdog story in the SportsGamer ecosystem. Starting their journey in the Neo division back in ECL 11, they’ve climbed the ladder with grit and determination. After cutting their teeth in the Lite division for several seasons, they’ve now earned a playoff berth in just their second season in the Pro division, a remarkable feat that signals their potential to break into the Elite tier soon. Their regular season was defined by defensive discipline and low-scoring affairs, with a league-low 75 goals scored among playoff teams. This defensive identity is Sawolanche’s calling card. Their ability to stifle opponents and keep games close has been their recipe for success, often dragging higher-octane teams into their preferred grind-it-out style. To advance past Vizio, Sawolanche will need to lean heavily on this strength, forcing low-scoring games where every chance is precious. Their captain and leading scorer, @I_LaiTi_I , is the linchpin of their offense. Known for his hockey IQ and knack for exploiting turnovers, @I_LaiTi_I will need to be at his absolute best, capitalizing on any mistakes Vizio makes in their own end. Sawolanche’s defensive structure is anchored by a disciplined team game and a goaltender who’s been a revelation this season. While their netminder’s stats may not jump off the page, their ability to make timely saves in clutch moments has kept Sawolanche competitive in tight games. If they can maintain their composure and force Vizio into frustrating, low-event hockey, Sawolanche has a real shot at pulling off the upset. Vizio: The Favored Contenders Vizio enters the series as the small favorite, and for good reason. Having already navigated the journey from Lite to Pro in prior seasons, they know what it takes to succeed in high-stakes playoff hockey. Their regular season was marked by offensive firepower and puck possession, with a style that emphasizes controlling the tempo and peppering opponents with shots. However, against a defensively sound team like Sawolanche, Vizio will need to be clinical with their chances, as opportunities to score will be few and far between. A key factor in Vizio’s favor is their mid-season acquisition of @Nieppii , a seasoned forward whose experience in high-level ECL play adds a new dimension to their attack. @Nieppii’s ability to create plays and finish in tight spaces makes him a perfect fit for the playoff grind, where every goal feels like a small victory. His presence not only bolsters Vizio’s forward core but also provides leadership and poise in critical moments. Expect @Nieppii to be a focal point of Vizio’s game plan, whether he’s setting up plays or taking on the responsibility of breaking through Sawolanche’s defensive shell. All eyes, however, will be on @Jetsu28 , Vizio’s 50-goal scorer and offensive dynamo. A nightmare for opposing defenses all season, @Jetsu28 has a flair for the dramatic, combining speed, skill, and a lethal shot to dominate games. His 50 goals in the regular season are a testament to his scoring prowess, but the playoffs are a different beast. Sawolanche’s defense will likely key in on him, using physical play and tight checking to limit his time and space. How @Jetsu28 handles this pressure will be a defining storyline of the series. If he can find ways to break free and light the lamp, Vizio could overwhelm Sawolanche’s defense. Vizio’s defense is their weakness, with one of the highest goals against in the regular season, they need to be sound in their own zone and cut down on turnovers in which Sawolanche thrive. Their netminder has posted solid numbers throughout the season, with a save percentage that ranks among the division’s best in high-danger situations. Their defensemen, while not as flashy as their forwards, are adept at moving the puck and shutting down opponents in their own zone. Vizio’s ability to maintain puck possession and limit Sawolanche’s counterattacks will be key to their success. Tactical Breakdown: A Clash of Styles This series is a classic battle of contrasting styles. Sawolanche’s low-scoring, defensive approach relies on patience, discipline, and capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes. They excel at clogging the neutral zone, forcing turnovers, and turning those errors into quick-strike offense led by @I_LaiTi_I. Their penalty kill, one of the best in the Pro division, will need to be sharp against Vizio’s potent power play, which has been a weapon all season. Vizio, on the other hand, thrives on puck possession and offensive creativity. Their game plan will likely focus on cycling the puck in the offensive zone, wearing down Sawolanche’s defenders, and creating high-quality chances for @Jetsu28 and @Nieppii. However, they’ll need to avoid overcommitting, as Sawolanche is lethal on the counterattack. Vizio’s power play, driven by @Nieppii’s playmaking and @Jetsu28 ’s finishing, could be a game-changer if they can draw penalties. Goaltending will be a critical factor. Both teams have reliable netminders, but Sawolanche’s keeper has a slight edge in low-scoring games, with a knack for making game-saving stops. Vizio’s goaltender, meanwhile, faces more shots on average and has proven capable of handling high-pressure situations. The team that gets the better goaltending performance is likely to come out on top. Historical Context and Stakes For Sawolanche, this playoff appearance is a milestone in their rapid ascent through the SportsGamer ranks. A series win would not only cement their status as a rising force but also send a message that they’re ready to compete with the big dogs in Pro and potentially Elite. Vizio, meanwhile, is looking to solidify their reputation as a playoff team in Pro. Having been in Sawolanche’s position a few seasons ago, they understand the hunger of an upstart team but also the importance of seizing opportunities. A deep playoff run could propel Vizio into the Elite conversation, especially with their bolstered roster and star power. The pressure is on them to perform as favorites, but their experience gives them an edge in handling the spotlight. Players to Watch Vizio: @Artuzio With talent around him, Artuzio has the ability to raise his own game as well, with Nieppi and Jetsu taking some of the offensive load off of him, he might just be the guy to keep an eye on. Sawolanche: @Kussan82 The Swedish netminder came in the offseason from Gotham Knights where he played on a contending team that crashed out in the playoffs, now boasting similar stats he is looking to take a round 1 victory. Series Prediction This series is too close to call with certainty, and our analysts are split on the outcome, reflecting the razor-thin margins that will decide it: @hifk_FANI : Vizio in 5 (4-1) @Pekedipeks : Sawolanche in 7 (4-3) @jm98II : Vizio in 7 (4-3) @Pensasmies : Sawolanche in 6 (4-2) For The Fans Vizio vs. Sawolanche is the epitome of playoff hockey: a battle of wills, styles, and execution under pressure. Will Vizio’s offensive firepower and veteran presence prove too much, or can Sawolanche’s defensive tenacity and opportunistic play spring the upset? One thing is certain, this series will be a showcase of everything that makes ECL playoffs so compelling: heart, hustle, and high-stakes drama. Tune in, because every goal, save, and turnover could be the moment that swings this series. ROBE Esports vs. Aspyre : A High-Octane Playoff Clash in ECL Pro The ECL Pro Division first-round matchup between ROBE Esports and Aspyre is shaping up to be a thrilling battle that could go down to the wire. Both teams have the firepower, grit, and star power to make a deep playoff run, making this one of the most anticipated series of the opening round. Expect a clash of offensive juggernauts, with special teams and goaltending likely to play a pivotal role in deciding who advances. ROBE Esports: The Resurgent Offensive Machine ROBE Esports has made a triumphant return to the Pro Division after a brief hiatus, storming back into the playoffs with a statement. Their regular season was a masterclass in offensive dominance, averaging an impressive 4 goals per game, a figure that puts them among the elite scoring teams in the division. Leading the charge is their star forward, @punt1la98 , a seasoned acquisition from the now-defunct Dilac. With 38 goals in the regular season, @punt1la98 has proven he’s a clutch performer who thrives in high-pressure situations. His ability to find the back of the net, combined with his veteran presence, makes him the engine of ROBE’s attack. ROBE’s offensive prowess stems from their relentless forecheck and ability to create chaos in the offensive zone. Their cycling game is among the best in the division, with crisp passing and dynamic movement that overwhelms opposing defenses. However, their success in this series will hinge on their power play, which has been a weapon all season. Aspyre’s poor penalty kill (a league-worst 66.67%) is a glaring weakness, and ROBE’s special teams, led by @punt1la98 ’s lethal shot, could exploit it to devastating effect. If ROBE can stay disciplined and avoid taking penalties themselves, their offensive depth could make this a short series. Offensively one of the key aspects of ROBE’s game is @lycki10 , who broke the ECL Pro defensemen point record with 74 (14+60), if Aspyre can’t contain him it’ll be a short series. Defensively, ROBE is no slouch, with a balanced blueline that supports their high-octane attack. Their goaltender, while not the flashiest, has posted respectable numbers and excels at making key saves in tight games. ROBE’s ability to transition quickly from defense to offense will be crucial against Aspyre’s aggressive forwards. Adding a layer of intrigue to this matchup is @Tihizu , ROBE’s rising star who played for Aspyre last season, now facing his former teammates. @Tihizu brings insider knowledge and a potential revenge narrative. His 90 points (41+49) isn’t easily replaced, and now ROBE has that insider knowledge of Aspyre’s playbook. Aspyre: The Late-Blooming Contenders Aspyre’s journey to the playoffs was a rollercoaster, marked by inconsistency until a pivotal roster change sparked their turnaround. The arrival of @LeiskaViis7 , initially as a backup, proved to be a game-changer. Quickly seizing the left-wing position, @LeiskaViis7 led the team in scoring with an impressive 63 points, showcasing his playmaking flair and finishing touch. Now, in his first Pro Division playoff appearance, he’s poised to make a splash and cement his status as one of the division’s rising stars. Aspyre’s strength lies in their offensive versatility and ability to generate scoring chances in bunches. Their forwards, anchored by @LeiskaViis7 & @hifk_FANI , combine speed, creativity, and a knack for finding open ice. However, their Achilles’ heel is their penalty kill, which struggled mightily during the regular season. Against a team like ROBE, with a lethal power play, Aspyre will need to tighten up their special teams and stay out of the penalty box to have a chance. They have most likely spent the short break before the playoffs drilling penalty-kill strategies, but it remains a significant concern. In net, Aspyre relies on @Cash18 , a goaltender with the X-factor to steal games. When he’s dialed in, @Cash18 can be a brick wall, capable of making highlight-reel saves that shift momentum. His performance in the regular season showed flashes of brilliance, and the playoffs are his opportunity to prove he’s among the elite netminders in Pro. Aspyre’s defense, spearheaded by @letsgoat67, while not as structured as ROBE’s, is aggressive and excels at pinching to create offensive opportunities, though this can leave them vulnerable to counterattacks. Tactical Breakdown: Offense vs. Discipline This series is a clash of offensive titans, with both teams capable of lighting up the scoreboard. ROBE’s game plan will likely focus on sustaining pressure in the offensive zone, using their cycling and puck possession to wear down Aspyre’s defense. Their power play will be a key weapon, especially given Aspyre’s penalty-kill struggles. ROBE’s challenge will be maintaining defensive discipline to avoid giving Aspyre’s speedy forwards breakaway chances. Aspyre, meanwhile, will aim to turn the series into a track meet, leveraging their speed and transition game to exploit ROBE’s aggressive pinching. @LeiskaViis7’s ability to create plays in open ice will be critical, as will @Cash18 ’s performance in net. Aspyre’s biggest priority is improving their penalty kill, whether through better positioning or more aggressive shorthanded pressure to neutralize ROBE’s power play. Discipline will be paramount, as taking penalties could spell disaster. ROBE has also struggled mightily in the faceoff circle at 45.36%, with a lot of plays off the faceoff, Aspyre has the advantage here. Goaltending could be the X-factor. While both netminders are capable of stealing games, @Cash18’s flair for the dramatic gives Aspyre a slight edge in high-stakes moments. However, ROBE’s goaltender is more consistent, which could prove decisive in a long series. Players to Watch ROBE:@Tihizu A breakout star who played for Aspyre last season, @Tihizu has skyrocketed to prominence in the Pro Division. His 76 points (30 goals, 46 assists) showcase his elite skill set, making him a player every Elite team should monitor. Facing his former club, @Tihizu ’s knowledge of Aspyre’s strategies and his ability to create offense in clutch moments could be the difference. The playoffs are his stage to prove he’s ready for the next level. Aspyre:@Cash18 @Cash18 is the heartbeat of Aspyre’s playoff hopes. With an uncanny ability to make game-changing saves, he has the X-factor to swing a series in his team’s favor. His regular season was marked by moments of brilliance, and now, in the postseason spotlight, he has a chance to establish himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the Pro Division. If @Cash18 is on his game, Aspyre could ride his heroics to an upset. Adaptation and Expectations ROBE Esports’ return to the Pro Division mirrors the resurgence of teams like Be a Bro or Golden Nights in past ECL seasons, who leveraged veteran leadership and offensive depth to make noise in the playoffs. A series win would validate their comeback and position them as serious contenders for an Elite Division promotion. For @punt1la98 and @Tihizu , this is a chance to prove they can carry a team in the crucible of playoff hockey. Aspyre’s story is one of adaptation and growth, reminiscent of teams like Herlev Eagles, who found success after key roster tweaks. @LeiskaViis7’s emergence as a star has given Aspyre a new identity, but their penalty-kill woes could be their undoing unless addressed. A deep playoff run would mark Aspyre as a team on the rise, with @Cash18’s goaltending potentially becoming the stuff of an ECL Pro legend. Series Prediction This series is a coin flip, with both teams boasting explosive offense and game-breaking talent. The team that finishes its chances and avoids costly penalties will likely emerge victorious. Our analysts are leaning toward Aspyre, but it’s far from unanimous: @hifk_FANI : Plays for Aspyre. @Pekedipeks : Plays for Aspyre. @jm98II : Aspyre in 7 (4-3). @Pensasmies : Aspyre in 5 (4-1) For The Fans ROBE Esports vs. Aspyre is a playoff matchup that has it all: star power, contrasting styles, and sky-high stakes. Will ROBE’s offensive juggernaut and power-play dominance prove too much, or can Aspyre’s speed, goaltending, and newfound chemistry pull off the upset? One thing is certain, this series will deliver edge-of-your-seat action, with every goal, save, and penalty potentially tipping the scales. Buckle up for a classic ECL Pro showdown! Golden Buffalos vs. Realistic : A Clash of Titans and Underdogs in ECL Pro The ECL Pro Division first-round matchup between Golden Buffalos and Realistic is one of the most intriguing storylines of the Spring 2025 playoffs. For many, the spotlight is on the Golden Buffalos, a newly formed team stacked with ECL Elite veterans who dropped down to Pro for a fresh challenge. As regular season champions, they face a scrappy, upstart Realistic squad eager to prove they belong among the division’s elite. This series promises high-stakes drama, tactical battles, and a showcase of why ECL playoffs are a breeding ground for unforgettable moments. Golden Buffalos: The Star-Studded Favorites The Golden Buffalos entered the Pro Division as the team to beat, and they’ve lived up to the hype. Assembled in the offseason with a jaw-dropping roster, they signed multi-ECL Elite champion @Patzlaf , alongside Elite veterans @Eken45jr and @FlyerKungen (among others), who left their established teams for reasons that remain a topic of speculation. Their regular season was a masterclass, clinching the top seed and home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs. Led by center @Patzlaf ’s 84 points (36 goals, 48 assists), the Buffalos boasted the division’s best defense, allowing the fewest goals in Pro. The Buffalos’ strength lies in their blend of offensive firepower and defensive solidity. @Patzlaf , a cerebral playmaker with a knack for clutch performances, dictates the pace from the center position, setting up linemates with surgical precision. @FlyerKungen, a two-way force, anchors the blueline with physicality and puck-moving savvy, while @Eken45jr’s scoring touch adds dynamism to the forward group. The late-season addition of ECL legend @itspardytime , who played two games, hints at a potential wildcard in the lineup. His playoff pedigree could be a game-changer if he suits up, keeping Realistic’s roster guessing. Defensively, the Buffalos are a fortress, with a goaltender who posted a league-leading save goals-against average 1.67. Their structured system stifles opponents, forcing low-percentage shots and capitalizing on turnovers. To dominate Realistic, the Buffalos will rely on their depth, experience, and ability to control the tempo, turning games into a masterclass of execution. Realistic: The Hungry Underdogs Realistic, a newly founded team, is the new underdog story. After battling through qualifiers to earn a Pro Division spot, they scraped into the playoffs by a single point, edging out HC Lugano in a nail-biting finish. This young squad, lacking the star power of their opponents, faces a difficult task: toppling the regular season champions in a best-of-seven series. Their regular season was marked by resilience and low-scoring games, with a focus on defensive discipline to compensate for their lack of offensive depth. Leading the charge is @Ratamursu69, Realistic’s top scorer with 60 points (36 + 24). His respectable numbers highlight his ability to create offense in limited opportunities, but he’ll need to elevate his game to penetrate the Buffalos’ stingy defense. Realistic’s game plan will center on keeping games tight, relying on their young goaltender to make big saves and their forwards to capitalize on counterattacks. Their penalty kill, a middle-of-the-pack unit, must be airtight against the Buffalos’ potent power play. Realistic’s defense is gritty but untested against a team of the Buffalos’ caliber. Their blueliners excel at shot-blocking and neutral-zone traps, but they’ll face relentless pressure from the Buffalos’ talent. If Realistic can frustrate their opponents and force mistakes, they have a chance to steal games, but it will require near-perfect execution. Tactical Breakdown: Experience vs. Grit This series is a classic David vs. Goliath matchup. The Golden Buffalos will aim to impose their will through puck possession, using their cycling game and defensive structure to suffocate Realistic. Their powerplay, driven by @Patzlaf and @FlyerKungen, is a lethal weapon that could be tested by Realistic’s stellar penalty kill. Buffalos’ depth allows them to rotate players, mixing up the opponents over a long series. Their challenge is to avoid going in assuming an easy win against a hungry underdog. Realistic’s strategy will focus on low-scoring, defensive hockey. They’ll look to clog the blueline, disrupt Buffalos’ rhythm, and capitalize on turnovers with quick-strike offense led by @Ratamursu69. Goaltending will be critical, as Realistic’s netminders must match @McSavid save for save. Staying out of the penalty box is non-negotiable, as the Buffalos’ special teams could turn a single infraction into a multi-goal deficit. The goaltending matchup favors the Buffalos, whose netminder is a proven playoff performer. Realistic’s goaltenders ( @Sportage14 & @Torvelajr__), while talented, both are untested in high-stakes games, and their ability to handle the Buffalos’ relentless attack will be a defining factor. It’ll be seen who gets the starting nod, as both goaltenders have had a split of games in the regular season. Playoff Significance and Stakes The Golden Buffalos’ bold move to the Pro Division and call upon their Elite stars has made them the talk of the ECL Pro division. Their regular season dominance set a high bar, and a deep playoff run would validate their decision to begin their unusual ECL story, potentially earning them a call to Elite. For @Patzlaf , this is a chance to add another championship to his storied career, while the addition of @itspardytime could further cement his legacy in ECL history. For Realistic, this playoff berth is a milestone for a young team still finding its identity. Facing the division’s top seed is a chance to make a statement, with @Ratamursu69 poised to emerge as a breakout star. An upset would redefine their trajectory, establishing them as a force in Pro. Even pushing the Buffalos to a competitive series would boost their confidence and reputation, proving they can hang with the best. Players to Watch Golden Buffalos:@FlyerKungen The highly touted defenseman can play on both sides of the puck. With an unclear roster ahead of the playoffs, it’s highly unlikely they start the series without their puck-moving blueliner. Realistic: @Datsyykki13 A player unheard of for many, this young blueliner has the potential to be a force in the Pro division. Still learning, he amassed a solid 28 points (2+26) in his first season. Prediction The analysts are heavily favoring the Golden Buffalos. Realistic has an uphill battle but will give it all they’ve got. @hifk_FANI : Golden Buffalos in 4 (4-0) @Pekedipeks : Golden Buffalos in 4 (4-0) @jm98II : Golden Buffalos in 5 (4-1) @Pensasmies : Golden Buffalos in 6 (4-2) For The Fans This matchup is a treat for ECL fans, offering a front-row seat to see how Elite veterans like @Eken45jr & @FlyerKungen adapt to the Pro Division’s lower intensity. Meanwhile, Realistic’s underdog story, led by the promising @Ratamursu 69, adds a layer of intrigue. Can the young upstarts challenge the juggernaut, or will the Buffalos’ star power prove too much? Every game will be a test of skill, strategy, and grit. Almost Famous vs. POGGERS : A High-Octane Showdown in ECL Pro The ECL Pro Division first-round matchup between Almost Famous and Poggers is shaping up to be a fireworks-filled spectacle, pitting two offensively gifted teams against each other. With experienced playmakers, questionable defenses, and a mutual expectation to advance, this series promises high-scoring games and thrilling moments. Both squads are led by dynamic center @JaKurrii for Poggers and @Ikavalko for Almost Famous, who will drive their teams’ game plans. Buckle up for a clash that could light up the virtual ice. Almost Famous: The Offensive Juggernaut Almost Famous has been a force in the Pro Division since their triumphant ECL 24 Spring title run. After opting not to claim an Elite Division spot last season, they’ve returned with a vengeance, dominating the regular season with a group-leading 130 goals (4.33 goals per game). Their offensive prowess is unmatched, with a knack for dismantling defenses and even hitting double digits in one game. Leading the charge is former Elite standout @keranee , a forward whose playmaking and scoring ability make him a nightmare for opponents, even on his off days. Almost Famous thrives on fluid puck movement in the offensive zone. @Ikavalko ’s ability to control the puck and set up high-danger chances is the engine of their attack, often creating space for @keranee to unleash his lethal shot. However, their defense is a weak point, conceding 2.9 goals per game, which could be exposed by Poggers’ potent offense. Their goaltender @kkostiiii , while capable, relies on the team’s scoring to outpace defensive lapses. To dominate this series, Almost Famous will need to maintain their offensive tempo while tightening up in their own end. The powerplay is a key weapon for Almost Famous, with @Ikavalko and @keranee orchestrating plays that capitalize on penalties. If Poggers’ discipline falters, Almost Famous could run away with games. Their challenge is to avoid getting into a track meet, as their defensive vulnerabilities could give Poggers a chance to keep pace. POGGERS: The Playoff Perennials Poggers have been a fixture in the Pro Division playoffs since their demotion from Elite, maintaining a consistent core with minor roster tweaks. Their regular season was solid but not spectacular, earning them a playoff berth despite an average defense that allowed 2.78 goals per game. Now, they face a formidable challenge in Almost Famous, whose offensive firepower could exploit Poggers’ defensive inconsistencies. To advance, Poggers will rely on their playoff experience and a goaltender who thrives under pressure. The heartbeat of Poggers’ offense is center @JaKurrii , a veteran playmaker whose ability to drive the puck and create scoring chances is central to their strategy. His vision and puck-handling will be critical against Almost Famous’ aggressive forecheck. In net, @Hullued is the X-factor. Known for elevating his game in high-stakes situations, @Hullued’s clutch saves have kept Poggers competitive in tight games. His regular season save percentage was respectable (81.86%), but his ability to steal games in the playoffs could be the difference in this series. Poggers’ power play, led by @keranee , is dangerous and a bit more consistent than Almost Famous’. Their penalty kill, however, is a weakness, which could be dangerous against Almost Famous’ powerplay. If Poggers can keep games low-scoring and rely on @Hullued’s heroics, they have a shot at an upset. Tactical Breakdown: Offense vs. Goaltending This series is a clash of offensive titans with defensive question marks. Almost Famous will aim to dictate the pace, using their offensive prowess to overwhelm Poggers’ blueliners. Their power play, driven by @keranee’s scoring ability, and Almost Famous will target Poggers’ average penalty kill (77.55%). However, their leaky defense could allow Poggers to counterattack, especially if @Ghettomasi exploits open ice. Poggers’ strategy will focus on slowing the game down, using their experience to disrupt Almost Famous’ rhythm and capitalizing on defensive mistakes. @Hullued’s goaltending will be pivotal, as he’ll face a barrage of high-quality shots. Poggers’ penalty kill must be disciplined to limit Almost Famous’ special teams, and their power play needs to convert to match their opponents’ scoring. Discipline is key, as penalties could hand Almost Famous easy goals. Goaltending could decide the series. @Hullued’s playoff pedigree gives Poggers an edge in clutch moments, but Almost Famous’ netminder @kkostiiii i will rely on his team’s offense to outscore mistakes. The team that gets the better performance between the pipes, or exploits the other’s defensive lapses will likely advance. Playoff Significance and Stakes For Almost Famous, this series is a chance to reaffirm their status as Pro Division elites after their ECL 24 Spring title. A deep playoff run would solidify @keranee and @Ikavalko as top-tier talents and potentially earn them another shot at Elite promotion. Their high-octane style has set expectations sky-high, and anything less than a strong showing would be a disappointment. Poggers, meanwhile, are driven to prove they can return to Elite contention. Their consistent playoff appearances reflect their resilience, but a series win would mark a breakthrough, with @JaKurrii and @Hullued poised to become playoff heroes. For a team accustomed to scrapping for respect, upsetting Almost Famous would be a defining moment, boosting their confidence and reputation. Players To Watch Poggers: @LaurinHaavi Question will be if he will play offense or defense, Almost Famous will see once the series starts. He can bring it on both sides of the puck. Almost Famous:@kkostiiii Can the seasoned goalie step up when he needs to? Is the pressure of title contenders too much? Watch to find out! Prediction This matchup will feature a lot of close-call games. Unfortunately for Poggers, it won’t be enough — Almost Famous’ offense is too much and they advance. @hifk_FANI : Almost Famous in 5 (4-1) @Pekedipeks : Almost Famous in 5 (4-1) @jm98II : Almost Famous in 6 (4-2) @Pensasmies : Almost Famous in 5 (4-1) For The Fans This matchup is a treat for ECL fans, showcasing offensive fireworks from @keranee and @Ikavalko against the clutch goaltending of @Hullued and @JaKurrii ’s playmaking. Will Almost Famous’ scoring barrage overwhelm Poggers, or can the underdogs pull off a stunner? Every goal, save, and power play will be critical in this high-scoring thriller. Fury vs. Otukset : A High-Scoring Showdown in ECL Pro The ECL Pro Division first-round matchup between Fury and Otukset is poised to be a thrilling, goal-filled spectacle, echoing the offensive fireworks of the Poggers vs. Almost Famous series. Both teams boast Elite-level experience and rosters stacked with offensive talent, but their success hinges on which squad’s defensemen can balance their attacking instincts with defensive responsibility. With dynamic forwards and shaky bluelines, this series will test who can find the extra gear to advance to the second round. Expect a fast-paced, high-scoring battle where every mistake could be costly. Fury: The Ambitious Newcomers Fury entered the ECL Pro Division as a newly formed team with sky-high expectations, bolstered by a roster of proven veterans. Finishing fourth in their group fell short of their lofty goals, but their offensive output was undeniable, driven by the dynamic duo of @rakkauspakkaus- and @Konsuk05 , @rakkauspakkaus-, a Pro Division veteran, elevated his game to new heights, amassing 102 points (45 goals, 57 assists) to lead the team. His partner, @Konsuk05, lit the lamp 50 times, forming a lethal forward pairing that can dismantle defenses with speed and precision. Don’t underestimate the trickery and experience of @LE1PAKONE (nordzman) — once defenseman turned center — he will be the wildcard for Fury. Fury’s strength lies in their offensive zone dominance, where their forwards excel at cycling, creating space, and finishing high-danger chances. @rakkauspakkaus-’s playmaking and @Konsuk05’s sniping make them a nightmare for opposing goalkeepers. New signing @localhefe (pinpinkeisari), an offensive-minded defenseman, whose lack of defensive capabilities are a glaring weakness for Fury. His 53 points (4 goals, 49 assists) are impressive, but his 304 turnovers highlight a reckless streak that opponents exploit. If Fury can rein in @localhefe ’s risky plays and bolster their defensive structure, they could overwhelm Otukset with their scoring. Fury’s power play, led by @rakkauspakkaus-’s setups, is a potent weapon, but their penalty kill struggles, often leaving them vulnerable. Staying disciplined and limiting Otukset’s power-play opportunities will be critical to their success. Otukset: The Seasoned Contenders Otukset, now in their fourth season in the Pro Division, are a well-oiled machine with a roster brimming with chemistry and versatility. Having narrowly missed Elite qualification before the season, they’re hungry to make a deep playoff run. Their regular season was marked by balance, with their forward group consisting of @Pursuitti , @James (machinegunkalle), and @Miguli36 almost sharing the scoring load evenly, each hovering just under 80 points. This depth makes Otukset a tough matchup, as they lack a single star but overwhelm with coordinated attacks. Defensively, Otukset are a standout, conceding just 82 goals (2nd fewest in their group). Their blueliners, while offensively inclined, are disciplined, balancing aggressive pinches with solid positioning. This defensive stability will be tested against Fury’s high-powered forwards, but Otukset’s chemistry gives them an edge in reading plays and shutting down rushes. Their goaltender @Roisto999 , a Pro Division veteran, boasts a mid-tier save percentage (79.75%) and thrives in low-scoring games, providing a backbone for their playoff push. Otukset’s power play, driven by @Pursuitti ’s vision, is efficient — the 2nd best in Pro (33.93%) — which could test Fury’s below average penalty kill (76.32%). To upset Fury, Otukset will need to exploit @localhefe ’s turnovers and keep games tight, leaning on their goaltender to outduel Fury’s inconsistent netminder, who at his best is a terrific goaltender. Tactical Breakdown: Offense vs. Discipline This series is a battle of offensive firepower and defensive discipline, with both teams’ offensive-minded defensemen under scrutiny. Fury will aim to dominate puck possession, using their cycling game to create chances for @rakkauspakkaus- and @Konsuk05. Their power play is a major threat, but @localhefe ’s turnovers could spark Otukset’s counterattacks. Fury must tighten their defensive zone coverage and avoid penalties, as Otukset’s penalty kill is above average. Otukset’s strategy will focus on structured play, using their defensive stability to frustrate Fury’s forwards and capitalize on mistakes. Their balanced forward group, led by @Pursuitti , excels at exploiting tight spaces, and their goaltender’s ability to handle high-danger shots could keep games close. Otukset’s power play must convert to match Fury’s scoring, and their penalty kill will be key to containing @rakkauspakkaus-’s setups. Discipline is paramount, as penalties could ignite Fury’s offense. Goaltending could be the decider. Otukset’s netminder has the edge in consistency, while Fury’s goalkeeper is a wildcard who can steal games or falter under pressure. The team whose defensemen better balance offense and defense, and whose goaltender stands tallest, will likely advance. Playoff Significance and Stakes For Fury, this series is a chance to validate their bold formation and high expectations. A deep playoff run would establish @rakkauspakkaus- and @Konsuk05 as elite playmakers and silence doubters about their defensive woes. Overcoming @localhefe ’s turnover issues could propel Fury toward Elite contention, making this series a defining moment for their new roster. Otukset, with their seasoned core, are driven to finally break through in the playoffs after years on the Elite cusp. A series win would highlight their chemistry and defensive prowess, with @Pursuitti , @James (machinegunkalle), and @Miguli36 proving they can compete with the best. Advancing would cement Otukset as a Pro Division powerhouse and boost their confidence for future Elite qualification. Players To Watch Otukset: @juhkis96 Will the seasoned player finally take that final step for the hardly sought after promotion to Elite, or will Otukset once again fall short in the playoffs? Time for the captain to step up. Fury:@localhefe A battle between defensemen, both drive their team forward, but will this once great Hokurit legend be a turnover machine in the playoffs? Time will tell and Otukset will surely take advantage. His 304 turnovers are close to a Pro division record. Prediction This matchup promises high-scoring chaos, with both teams exploiting defensive weaknesses. The team that stays out of the penalty box and gets the better goaltending will prevail. Analysts are split, reflecting the series’ unpredictability: @hifk_FANI : Fury in 4 (4-0) @Pekedipeks : Otukset in 7 (4-3) @jm98II : Otukset in 6 (4-2) @Pensasmies : Otukset in 7 (4-3) For The Fans This series is a masterclass in offensive hockey, with @rakkauspakkaus-, @Konsuk05, @Pursuitti , @James (machinegunkalle), and @Miguli36 showcasing their mastery of tight-space playmaking. Fans looking to sharpen their offensive game should study this matchup, as both forward groups exploit every inch of ice. The battle of offensive defensemen, especially @localhefe ’s high-risk style, adds intrigue. Don’t miss this high-scoring showdown! Three Stars vs. Falun : A Clash of Cinderella Magic and Veteran Grit in ECL Pro The ECL Pro Division first-round matchup between Three Stars and Falun is one of the most captivating storylines of the Pro playoffs, pitting a Latvian underdog with a good run under their belt against a seasoned Swedish squad with Elite experience. Three Stars, a team few expected to make the playoffs, has dazzled with their dynamic offense and aggressive playstyle, while Falun, a playoff regular, aims to leverage their veteran presence to overcome a lackluster regular season. This series promises high-energy hockey, tactical battles, and a test of whether youthful momentum can outshine battle-tested grit. Expect a hard-fought battle that could swing either way. Three Stars: The Latvian Cinderella Story Three Stars has been the surprise package of the ECL Pro Division, defying expectations with a breakout season that captured the imagination of fans. After scraping through Stage 2 of the Pro qualifiers, the Latvian squad exploded out of the gate with a stunning nine-game win streak, showcasing their flashy offense and relentless energy. Their regular season was a masterclass in balance: a league-best power play (35.42%), a strong faceoff win rate (52.15%), and an above-average penalty kill. Their defense, ranked second in Pro for goals against, combines aggressive play with disciplined positioning, creating turnovers that fuel their high-octane attack. Leading the charge is left winger @artusjo , whose slick playmaking and scoring touch have lit up the division. Since his Pro debut in ECL 23 Spring in the Neo division, @artusjo has evolved into a superstar, dazzling opponents with his speed and clutch goals. Complementing him is the lone Finn, @Stigi senko, who enjoyed a record-breaking season with 46 goals and a blistering 35.9% shooting percentage, making him a lethal finisher in tight spaces. Three Stars’ game plan hinges on their aggressive play, power-play dominance, and faceoff prowess, but their relative inexperience could be a chink in their armor against Falun’s seasoned roster. Their goaltender, a rising talent @Elvis Grundmanis (happymack29) boasts solid save percentage (81.31%), faces a stern test against Falun’s skilled wingers but has shown poise in high-pressure moments. Three Stars’ versatility leaves few weaknesses, but maintaining their momentum in the playoff crucible will be critical. If they can keep the puck in Falun’s zone, convert power-play chances, and stay disciplined, their cinderella story could extend deep into the postseason. Falun: The Experienced Contenders Falun, an experienced team in the ECL, entered the Pro season with high expectations but faltered after falling short in the Elite qualifiers. Despite a disappointing regular season, their playoff berth and surprising roster moves signal their intent to make a statement. The acquisition of @benuh_ , widely regarded as the best goaltender in Pro, was a masterstroke, with his elite save percentage and clutch performances anchoring Falun’s defense. Their offense, driven by talented wingers @STRANDMANNEN11 and @Buffy XII, is potent, capable of matching Three Stars’ firepower, but they face a formidable challenge against the division’s second-best defense. The return of @l-Furyan-l , an ECL legend, has been a game-changer. After a tough stint in Elite, he reasserted his dominance, finishing sixth among defensemen in points (7 goals, 46 assists) and second in blocked shots (46). His two-way play and physicality make him a candidate for the best defenseman award if Falun goes deep. Falun’s game plan revolves around their experience, goaltending, and offensive depth, but they must slow Three Stars’ relentless pace to avoid being overrun. Their goaltender, @benuh_, is the X-factor, capable of stealing games, but their average penalty kill could be exposed by Three Stars’ deadly power play. Falun’s challenge is to impose their tempo, leveraging @l-Furyan-l ’s defensive prowess and @benuh_’s heroics to keep games tight. If they can fluster Three Stars with physical play and capitalize on their inexperience, they could pull off the upset. Tactical Breakdown: Momentum vs. Experience This series is a clash of styles: Three Stars’ high-octane, aggressive approach against Falun’s structured, experience-driven game. Three Stars will aim to dominate puck possession, using their skill and power play to overwhelm Falun’s defense. Their faceoff dominance, led by @snipeLVcelly8 (jurajLV), ensures they start with the puck, and their aggressive playbook creates turnovers for quick-strike goals. However, their defensive aggression could leave gaps if Falun’s wingers exploit counter attacks. Falun’s strategy will focus on slowing the game down, using @benuh_ to neutralize high-danger shots. Their power play, driven by @STRANDMANNEN11, must convert to keep pace, while their penalty kill needs to step up against Three Stars’ lethal special teams. Discipline is critical, as penalties could ignite Three Stars’ power play. Falun’s experience gives them an edge in clutch moments, but they must match Three Stars’ intensity to avoid being overrun. Goaltending could be the decider. @benuh_’s playoff pedigree gives Falun a slight edge, but @Elvis Grundmanis (happymack29) has shown he knows what he’s doing. The team that gets the better performance between the pipes and exploits the other’s mistakes will likely advance. Playoff Significance and Stakes For Three Stars, this series is a chance to cement their cinderella story and prove their meteoric rise is no fluke. A deep playoff run would establish @artusjo and @Stigi senko as Pro Division stars and position the Latvians as serious contenders for Elite promotion. Their dynamic style has raised expectations, and advancing would send a message that their momentum is unstoppable. Falun, meanwhile, is fighting to reclaim their status as a playoff powerhouse. A series win would validate @benuh_’s acquisition, highlight @l-Furyan-l s resurgence, and restore Falun’s reputation after a lackluster season. For @STRANDMANNEN11 and @Buffy XII, it’s an opportunity to prove they can lead against a top defense. Advancing would reignite Falun’s Elite aspirations and boost their confidence for future campaigns. Players To Watch Three Stars:@artusjo The new star of the Latvian team now has big shoes to follow, his regular season campaign was a success and now we’ll see if he can find that little bit of playoff hockey resilience we all love. Falun:@benuh_ The seasoned veteran has seen a lot of different ECL scenarios in his career, and this is no different. We’ll see a great goalie take on a great offense. For those who are new between the pipes, this is a must-follow! Prediction This series is a toss-up, with Three Stars’ momentum clashing against Falun’s experience. The team that controls the tempo and gets the better goaltending will prevail. Analysts lean toward the Latvians, but the series could go the distance: @hifk_FANI : Three Stars in 5 (4-1) @Pekedipeks : Three Stars in 5 (4-1) @jm98II : Three Stars in 7 (4-3) @Pensasmies : Three Stars in 4 (4-0) For The Fans This series is a must-watch for ECL fans, showcasing Three Stars’ electrifying offense, led by @artusjo and @Stigi senko, against Falun’s veteran grit, with @l-Furyan-l and @benuh_ anchoring their effort. The battle of Three Stars’ power play versus Falun’s goaltending adds intrigue, and fans looking to study dynamic playmaking should tune in. Every goal, save, and power play could tip the scales in this high-stakes showdown! 🏁 Conclusion As the puck drops on the ECL Pro Playoffs, each team carries its own story — redemption, ambition, legacy, or breakout. While stats and predictions paint part of the picture, it’s the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey that makes it so captivating. From breathtaking saves to last-minute goals, these series will define seasons and shape future ECL legends. No matter who you’re rooting for, one thing is clear: fans are in for a postseason to remember.

The League Administration has conducted a thorough investigation into rule violations committed by members of Norrlands Hockey in the ECL Lite during the ECL ’25: Spring season. The findings involve multiple breaches of player eligibility and attempts to circumvent suspensions. Ban Evasion by eBjorken97_ Norrlands Hockey registered the player Valter27k, who was confirmed to be eBjorken97_, a player already banned from competition until February 13, 2026. By attempting to rejoin under a false identity, eBjorken97_ violated multiple core rules of SportsGamer. As a result: eBjorken97_’s ban is extended by 6 months, now ending on August 13, 2026. Captain abbelandit__ is banned for the remainder of ECL ’25: Spring. Captain Bjorkudd_39 is banned for 6 months, until October 9, 2025. All three – eBjorken97_, abbelandit__, and Bjorkudd_39 – receive a two-year captaincy ban, from April 9, 2025, to April 9, 2027. Rule Violations: Rule 2.4 – Number of Accounts eBjorken97_ used multiple accounts in violation of account regulations. Rule 4.2 – Rule Circumvention Both eBjorken97_ and Bjorkudd_39 attempted to deceive SportsGamer administration. Rule 14.11 – Acquisition of Banned Players The team registered a banned player, triggering captain bans and setting the foundation for team disqualification in the case of further violations. At the time of this ruling, the remaining players on the roster were allowed to continue competing in ECL '25, with a clear warning that any further misconduct would result in disqualification. Additional Violation – Playing While Banned It has now been confirmed that abbelandit__, while suspended, participated in matches by using another player’s account. This is a serious and intentional breach of the rules. As a result: Norrlands Hockey is disqualified from ECL ’25: Spring Further disciplinary action for any other players or captains involved in this violation is under review and will be announced in due course. Additional Rule Violations: Rule 2.4 – Number of Accounts No player may have more than one account on SportsGamer.gg. Rule 2.5 – Account in the Same Household Players sharing an IP address (e.g., family members) must report it to SportsGamer administration. No such report was made. Rule 14.11 – Acquisition of Banned Players Continued use of a banned player resulted in disqualification, as outlined by this rule. Playoff Implications As Norrlands Hockey fielded an ineligible player during the majority of their ECL '25: Spring - Lite season, all of their matches will be voided. The standings will be adjusted accordingly. Conclusion The conduct displayed by members of Norrlands Hockey represents a clear and repeated disregard for SportsGamer rules. Attempts to evade bans, use of unauthorized accounts, and deception toward league administration undermine the integrity of our competitions. We take these matters seriously and will continue to enforce all rules to ensure a fair and respectful environment for every participant.

The premier Finnish eHockey tournament FCL 2025 returns with both 1v1 and 6v6 game modes - read all details below! Key Tournament Details Free to play Registrations open today and close on March 9th at 12:00 CET NHL 25 format under the FCL banner 6v6 and 1v1 tournaments 6v6 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S 1v1 on PlayStation 5 New for This Season: No X-Factors The upcoming season introduces a groundbreaking change aimed at redefining the competitive 6v6 eHockey scene. In a bold move to emphasize pure skill and strategy, FCL has - aligned with the GCL, SCL and WECL - decided to ban the use of all X-Factors, both Gold and Silver. This decision marks a significant shift in gameplay, as X-Factors have long played a crucial role in shaping team dynamics and individual performances. By removing these abilities, FCL aims to test out a more balanced and skill-driven environment, where players must rely on raw talent and tactical planning. This rule change across the board is based on community requests and is expected to bring a new dynamic to competition, challenging players to adapt and develop new strategies. We know this is a subject that splits the communities opinion and are very interested in receiving feedback from the teams during and after the season and it is critical for shaping the decision on what kind of ruling will be implemented into the ECL '25: Spring Season. Please submit your feedback here, rather sooner than later. For clarity, the X-Factor ban does not apply to the 1v1 game mode. Tournament Prizing 6x NHL 26 digital copies + 6x Leijonat packages* for 6v6 winners 1x NHL 26 digital copy + 1x Leijonat package* for the 1v1 winner 1x NHL 26 digital copy and 1x Leijonat package* awarded randomly among competitors who completed their competition respectfully *The details for the Leijonat package are to be confirmed soon, but so far we can confirm it includes a Finnish National team jersey. The tournament promises intense competition, bringing together Finland's top eHockey talent. Players looking to test their skills and compete at the highest level can sign up now to secure their spot. Think you have what it takes to claim victory? Sign up now and be part of FCL 2025! Moreover, eHockey SM 2026 is already in the early planning stages for NHL 26, ensuring that Finland's premier competitive NHL scene continues to thrive. Stay tuned for more updates as we build toward the future of eHockey in Finland. Sign up now SIGN UP FOR 6v6 HERE Played on: PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X/S Schedule for the 6v6 FCL 2025: Registrations: 2.3.-9.3 (closes at 12:00 CET) Tournament: 10.3.-6.4 Group stage: 10.3.-21.3 Playoffs Round 1 (64) 23.-24.3 Playoffs Round 2 (32) 26.3.-27.3 Playoffs Round 3 (16) 30.-31.3 Quarterfinals (8) 2.-3.4 Semifinals (4) 5.4 Finals (2) 6.4 Please note: The schedule and format may be changed based on the number of teams registered. Note: The majority of the players must be Finnish citizens. See the rulebook for more details. Find the 6v6 eHockey Finnish Championship rulebook here! (Finnish) SIGN UP FOR 1v1 HERE! Played on: PlayStation 5 Schedule for the 1v1 FCL Registrations: 2.3.-9.3 Tournament: 12.3.-6.4 Group Stage 12.-25.3 Playoffs: Round 1 (RO96) 26.-27.3 Playoffs, Round 2 (RO64) 28.-29.3 Group Stage 2 (RO32) 30.3-1.4 Round of 16 2.-3.4 Quarterfinals 4.-5.4 TOP 4 Finals 6.4 Please note: The schedule and format may be changed based on the number of players registered. Note: In order to participate in the 1v1 mode, you must be a Finnish citizen. Find the 1v1 eHockey Finnish Championship rulebook here (Finnish) Don't Miss the Sign-ups! Signups are now open and will close already in a week, on Sunday, March 9th, so make sure to gather your friends and challenge the big dogs in one of the biggest Finnish tournaments of the eHockey season! Please help us spread the word about the tournament so we can have welcome new and old faces to the tournament and community. ❤️

ECL 26’: Winter - Pro l Season Preview Another ECL Winter, another Pro division full of storylines. This year brings a mix of familiar faces and new challengers, each with their own ambitions — promotion, redemption, or simply proving they belong. As always, we’ve gone through the groups, looked at the returning cores, offseason moves, and early-season form to get a sense of who might surprise us and who has the potential to go all the way.   Group 1  Greatest A new team with a few Pro division greats on their roster, former Elite Rookie of the year @xLeikku and his partner in crime @localhefe team up once again in the Pro division looking to wreak havoc on opponents, it’ll be seen who plays what position as they have been active in the offseason. Big expectations always come served with big pressure. Some of the guys on the roster are known to not play great under pressure, we'll see how it goes for them as the games get tough, they'll be a lock for playoffs, but how far can they go?   Player To Watch: @Wpaanane Season Prediction: Title Contenders   Unique Last season for Unique wasn’t the best. Now they’re looking to bounce back to their own level, with a few departures, they shuffle things up, and long-time Elite player @LE1PAKONE (Nordzman) signs for Unique. It remains to be seen where he plays and how he fits in Unique's plans. They have high hopes for this season, no doubt, but putting pen to paper might not be that simple. Unique needs to start gathering points early; if they can’t string together wins, it will be a long season.   Player To Watch: @Jakeexh Season Prediction: No-man’s land    Brynäs IF Esport Brynäs makes a returnto the Pro scene this year, adopting some key players of former Herlev Eagles, with @Vibholm_10 & @el_tacobag leading the offense as usual, with a few additions to round out the squad. Having finished 12th in the group last season, the squad played their way back through the Pro Qualifiers. With a playoff spot just out of Herlev Eagles' reach last season, they’re looking to make it this season, which would require the big boys to show up and get those wins against tough opponents.   Player To Watch: @Henka0009 Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs    Puck Over Glass In a similar situation last season as Herlev Eagles: a few more wins, and they clinch the playoffs, with a few more tweaks, that should be the case this season for Puck Over Glass. With the start of the season, all eyes will be on their star forward @Hydeee_24, with a magnificent pre-season behind him, his team is now looking to him to carry them to the playoffs. Big boots to fill for Hyde, can he do it?   Player To Watch: @Hydeee_24 Season Prediction: No-man’s land   MoDo Hockey After a great season in Lite, where MoDo managed to dominate all aspects of the game, and grab the title, they now enter the Pro division. MoDo will be facing teams with greater skill, tougher defense, and better goalies. One name to remember is their long-time scorer, @Mathiasgamer_07, who has been with MoDo since the beginning and has been top of the pont-scoring leaderboard every year. Look out for him to be their go-to guy on the power play. Player To Watch: @Mathiasgamer_07 Season Prediction: No-man’s land    Reiviluola Reiviluola enters the Pro division as one of the favourites to go the whole nine yards, considering more than half the team played in Elite last season, it’s not far off. But we’ll see how the new guys mesh with the guys who have played on the same team for years. One name to keep an eye out for is former goalie and now center, @Tope0090(mestari_tikku). He has all the ability in the world to succeed, and has the talent surrounding him to succeed. We’ll see how that goes as we’re going to keep a close eye on Reiviluola this season. Player To Watch: @ItzPoro Season Prediction: Title Contenders    Otukset Otukset just can't seem to break that Elite curse they've been having for a while now. They came close this year as well with Elite qualifiers, but totally slumped and couldn't get their game together in time. They finished last (5/5) in the Elite Qualifiers and claim a spot in Pro. Now they try to turn the ship around, and hopefully captain @Miguli36 has revamped his playbook for the season. The same players, but a different story? With all the talent in the world and a defensive pair that can move the puck well, @juhkis96 tops the defensemen's points leaderboards year after year and hopefully next season in Elite. Player To Watch: @Pursuitti Season Prediction: 2nd round of playoffs    SSK Prospects   After a decent season in Pro where they finished in No-man's land, SSK Prospects head to their second season and aim for the playoffs, this could be only a dream for a team that struggled against teams higher up in the standings last season and will fight for every single point this season, if they can shape up defensively they could see the playoffs in the spring.  They can be seen as a development project by their Elite counterpart, and hope to see some start to develop, but it's highly unlikely as this team is destined for the No-man's land or relegation. Player To Watch: @I-Sjogren-I Season Prediction: Relegation   Group 2    F0CUS FOCUS is a squad packed with big names from @jm98II to. This team has all the tools in its belt to take home the Pro division trophy, one of the favourites ahead of the season, as they dominated the qualifiers and advanced with ease. With a star-studded squad always come big expectations, and their captain @jm98II has high expectations for their team and doesn’t shy away from that. In a small interview, he mentioned that he expects their tight-knit group to win the Pro division this year, and that they had originally planned to play in the Neo division; the rest couldn’t be posted in this article. Player To Watch: @Anhel_Kuru Season Prediction: Title Contenders    Deadly Phantoms The Germans were just a few wins away from glory last season in the Lite division finals; they couldn’t quite beat the Swedish team MoDo, who emerged as victors. A team with lots of history will try and make their mark in the Pro division this season, still some great players on their roster, and they will surely have a bone to pick with MoDo from last season. With their quick-tempo play, they will look to catch teams on the break, as their explosive wingers try and make magic happen. If they can get a goal or two ahead, their lockdown defense will handle the rest. Player To Watch: @RPH_31 Season Prediction: No-man’s land   Aspyre Aspyre has now made the playoffs for two seasons in a row, and both times crashed out in the 1st round. They’ve made some changes and hope to break the curse and advance to the second round, their additions @Jondeezz & @koleslaav_ will surely boost their offense, but the big question will be their goalies this season with @priima-namu(feikkinambo) as their starter.   Player To Watch: @koleslaav_ Season Prediction: - (Writer plays for Aspyre)   Including Me Including me has been playing in the Lite division since ECL 22, where they advanced from their inaugural season in Core the year before, and now their time has come to show that their dues have been paid and that they belong in the Pro division. That being said, remaining in the Pro division is no easy task, as the bottom two teams get relegated, Including Me captain @toomanyville needs to get creative with how they approach the season. One long slump and their playoff hopes are over.   Player To Watch: @Jusa Season Prediction: No-man’s land    NOSTREETSPORTS It wasn’t many seasons ago that Nostreetsports took the Pro regular season by storm and shocked everyone with their offensive ability, scoring 142 goals in the regular season. Their fairytale season came to an abrupt end in the first round, falling to eventual finalist SSK. Now they face the expectations from that season, and look to get back to their ways, spearheading that comeback is @Bot_hene, who has always been a thorn in the opposing sides on the ice, he knows what it takes to string wins together, and what it means to win, it’ll remain to be seen how this team will stack up in a tough group. Player To Watch: @1mmu9 Season Prediciton: 1st round of playoffs    vNexs ll The Swedes pair up with their Elite counterpart and take on an “AHL” type of deal, where good performances could potentially lead to a call up next season. By no means is this team an underdog this season, with high-end Pro players and veterans, mixed in with young, exciting talent. With a few additions from Sunne IK, this team immediately throws in their hat for a playoff spot this season. @Putteekiing and @benjamint737 bring experience and a set of cool heads, while youngster @Maaacki brings explosive offensive power and a knack for scoring highlight reel goals. Player To Watch: @Maaacki Season Prediction: 2nd round of playoffs  Nova The former Elite team found themselves in the Elite Qualifiers, losing to Vizio, who advanced to the Elite division after a hard-fought battle. Now Nova is back in the Pro division and eager to prove to everyone and themselves that this is their season. The Russian side has the talent to go far, but they need to sort out their roster and find chemistry before it's too late. With their new roster and new players, a connection to look out for is @xDekko-_- & @vlxddyy, they can form an uncanny duo this season, but if they can't click with the rest of the group, it'll be tough to make the playoffs. Player To Watch: @Baranizer Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs    Finnish Roosters This Finnish Rosters have been around for a long time (ECL 2), played between Pro and Lite for the most part, and now back again in Pro after a short hiatus. Their game plan has always been soli,d and their roster too. Now they aim to be a threat for the playoffs and without a doubt will be firing on all cylinders for this season. With a new season upon us, eyes will turn to ECL icon @J0HTAJA who has a game or two under his belt. He managed to put up 21 points (11+10) in stage 1 of the Pro qualifiers as he led his team to a Pro division spot. Player To Watch: @Ernottii Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs  

Note: The information in this article is based on the situation on Sunday morning. See the updated statistics below. PLAYOFF RACE HEADING INTO FINAL WEEK OF REGULAR SEASON With just one week to go before the end of the regular season, let's take a detailed look of where each team's postseason dreams, or relegation nightmares, stand heading into the games of the regular season. To make things a little more interesting, however, I decided to add in a different element to this article. I decided to embrace the power of modern technology and used ChatGPT to come up with the mathematical chance for each team to clinch a playoff spot, as well as every other general seeding possibility. These numbers are based on 10,000 different simulations of possible outcomes. This is the first time that I've decided to do something like this, so if it's something that you enjoyed, let us know and we'll consider doing more stuff like this in the future! We'll be looking at all 16 teams in the division and giving a short summary of where they stand, what the numbers tell us, and what the next week could look like as they get towards the end of their schedules. Hopefully you all enjoy, and make sure to tell us what you think will happen and what you thought of the article! Last Dance (51pts) - 1st in standings - 10 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 100% Chance To Finish 1-4: 99.98% Chance to Finish 5-8: 0.02% Chance to Finish 9-12: 0% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 0% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% Last Dance sit in a great position heading into the final week of the season. Not only have Last Dance all but clinched their place in the Top 4, but they have also pretty much clinched their place in the Top 4, barring a catastrophic end to the season. The next 10 games for Last Dance will be about strengthening their playoff positioning and looking to earn the #1 overall seed. The simulations gave them an 83.82% chance to clinch that top overall seed, the best of any team in the field. Based on their recent form (14-1-0 in their last 15 games) and their favorable remaining schedule, I'd tend to agree with those odds, and would maybe even argue that they should be higher. I'd personally expect for Last Dance to enter the playoffs at the #1 overall seed, barring a late-season slump, but at bare minimum, they should find themselves finishing somewhere in the 1-3 range. Remaining Series: Blackbirds, GOONS, vNexs, SSK ESPORTS and Tohtorit Mythix (46pts) - 2nd in standings - 10 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 100% Chance To Finish 1-4: 99.57% Chance to Finish 5-8: 0.43% Chance to Finish 9-12: 0% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 0% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% Similarly to Last Dance, Mythix have virtually clinched a playoff spot and should very likely make the Top 4, meaning that they are merely fighting for seeding over the next 10 games. Considering that this group finished 6th and 5th the past two seasons, clinching a playoff berth with 10 games to go is quite the impressive leap for this team. It'll be a tough task for them to pass Last Dance for the top spot and their series against Parasite will likely shake up their seed projections dramatically, but at bare minimum they should be able to go into the postseason with a place in the Top 4. If they do, it'll certainly be well deserved. They also still have a chance to finish a to finish at the top of the table. Simulations gave Mythix a 13.51% chance to do so, second-highest of any team. Remaining Series: vNexs, NOVA, Parasite, SSK ESPORTS and The Black Jacks Mustaa Kultaa (45pts) - 3rd in standings - 8 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 100% Chance To Finish 1-4: 95.97% Chance to Finish 5-8: 4.03% Chance to Finish 9-12: 0% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 0% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% Mustaa Kultaa is virtually a lock to make the playoffs, and are mostly playing to secure a Top 4 seed. They were able to do most of their work in the early to middle stages of the season, picking up 41 points in their first 18 games of the season. They also still have an outside shot to finish with the top overall seed, but simulations give them a slim chance to do so at just 0.86%, likely due to their limited amount of games left and the gap in points between them and Last Dance. They are the last team that is eligible to clinch the top spot. This group has cooled of a little bit over their last two series, as they were swept by SSK Esports and split their series with vNexs, but both teams are currently in playoff spots and are fighting hard to stay there, so those loses are nothing to be ashamed of. Their series against Parasite will undoubtedly be the biggest on their schedule and will likely be the difference between them finishing 4th or higher. Remaining Series: EXEN, Polski Boys, Parasite and Vapor Parasite - (42pts) - 4th in standings - 10 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 100% Chance To Finish 1-4: 96.19% Chance to Finish 5-8: 3.81% Chance to Finish 9-12: 0% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 0% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% As another lock to make the playoffs, Parasite is in position to not only clinch another Top 4 seed in the playoffs, but they also still have an inside track to finish 2nd with their two series against Mythix and Mustaa Kultaa coming up. They would need some help in order to secure the top seed, as the simulations only gave them a 1.81% chance. What also helps Parasite is that they're 8-2-0 in the last 10 games and have yet to lose back-to-back games all season, so based on how they've paced to this point, I'd be surprised to not see them move their way up in the standings before the regular season ends. Though you could argue that this team has the toughest remaining schedule of any team in the Top 4, you could also make the point that they have the best opportunity because of that. Passing up Last Dance will tough to pull off, but I do believe that finishing right behind them is a more likely possibility; especially if they can earn at least 4 points against Mythix. Remaining Series: GOONS, Mustaa Kultaa, Mythix, NOVA and Tohtorit Tohtorit - (36pts) - 5th in standings - 6 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 67.68% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0.13% Chance to Finish 5-8: 67.55% Chance to Finish 9-12: 31.42% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 2.0% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% This is where the "playoff hunt" really starts. Even though they currently sit 5th in the standings, Tohtorit's position is far from secured. Their situation actually reminds me a bit of the situation that GOONS and Polski Boys were in during the Winter season. A tough remaining schedule, very few games remaining, and a point tally that doesn't give them the comfort needed to drop many more points. Those two teams finished 8th and 9th in the standings respectively. Simulations seem relatively confident about Tohtorit's chances though, as their 67.6% chance to clinch ranks 8th amongst all 16 teams. The scary thing about where they stand is that there is a realistic chance that they could leave their last six games with no more than 6 points earned, as both Last Dance and Parasite are averaging over 4 standings points per series. That would give them 42 points in the standings, which would put them in a dangerous spot. Simulations projected that 46–48 points would be the mark for a team outside of the cutline to make their way into the Top 8. As of now, six of the bottom eight teams could realistically reach that threshold, though Blackbirds would have to win all of their remaining games to do so. Tohtorit need to steal some points against Last Dance and Parasite to feel good about their chances. Remaining Series: Heimo, Last Dance, and Parasite GOONS - (35pts) - 6th in standings - 4 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 7.43% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 7.43% Chance to Finish 9-12: 77.85% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 14.72% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0.03% Unfortunately for GOONS, their playoff hopes appear to be grim even though they enter the final week placed 6th in the standings. The problem that GOONS faces isn't just their remaining schedule against two of the toughest teams in the league, but it is also their lower point-tally and the limited chances that they have to earn more points. Because of this, simulations only had them clinch a playoff spot 7.43% of the time, giving them the 11th-best odds in the division. The most points that they will be able to earn is 47, and though any team can win on any given day, I have a hard time realistically seeing any team sweep both Last Dance and Parasite. GOONS also have been in a bit of a rut, as they're 3-6-1 in their last 10 games and have taken multiple losses to teams outside of the playoffs over the past two weeks, including Blackbirds, The Black Jacks and Vapor. Something that the simulations don't take account for. No team in the playoff picture will have to rely more on outside results than GOONS. When a team can't control it's own destiny, the less confident you can feel about their chances to make the field. This group looks bound for "no man's land", which is better than where they were a year ago when they were forced to play in a relegation playoff, but its still a step back from their performance a season ago where they were able to earn a playoff spot with 44 points. Remaining Series: Last Dance and Parasite EXEN - (32pts) - 7th in standings - 10 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 88.3% Chance To Finish 1-4: 4.02% Chance to Finish 5-8: 84.28% Chance to Finish 9-12: 11.34% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 0.36% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% Despite a slow start to the season, EXEN was able to dig themselves out of a early hole and now find themselves in a great position to earn its third-straight under the EXEN brand (sixth-straight playoff if you want to go back to its time as JYP Jyväskylä, though only one active player remains from that group). Their playoff chances would've been even higher if not for being swept by Polski Boys this past week, but it would still take a lot to go wrong for EXEN to not clinch a spot in the Top 8; especially with their remaining schedule being primarily against non-playoff teams. Their 88.3% chance to clinch is 5th-highest of any team in the league and the highest of all of the teams that have yet to clinch a spot. They technically also have an outside chance to land in the Top 4, but it would require a wide range of circumstances that are highly unlikely. The goal for this team will be securing the 5th seed, something that feels very possible with where they currently stand and how well they have played as of late (7-2-1 in their last 10 games). Remaining Series: Heimo, Mustaa Kultaa, vNexs, NOVA and The Black Jacks vNexs - (30pts) - 8th in standings - 10 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 72.76% Chance To Finish 1-4: 1.22% Chance to Finish 5-8: 71.54% Chance to Finish 9-12: 25.9% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 1.34% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0% Though they currently hold the last available playoff spot, the simulations seemed to favor vNexs' chances of making it in, as their 71.54% ranks 7th. Similarly to EXEN, they even have a slim chance to make the Top 4, but it's high;y unlikely. Though I definitely agree that they've put themselves in a great position to make the Top 8, I also feel slightly more pessimistic than what the ChatGPT simulations seemed to. Now don't get me wrong, I like this vNexs team a lot. They have a ton of experience and have often played their best games during the last week or so of the season. My concern however is the inconsistency that has plagued this team at times. They're 5-5-0 in their last 10 games, and they've only earned maximum points in one series all season, and that was against a non-playoff team in Vapor. They've also dropped a pair of critical games to both Polski Boys and The Black Jacks, while splitting their most recent series with Blackbirds. It just feels like this team has missed out on some opportunities for points against teams below them in the standings, and this can often be the difference between making and missing the playoff at the end of the regular season. They also still have to play the two top teams in the standings in Last Dance and Mythix. Though I think they are capable of stealing some points out of those matchups, their playoff hopes will likely be determined by how they do in their series against EXEN and SSK ESPORTS, as both are only separated from vNexs by 3 points or less. Remaining Series: EXEN, Last Dance, Mythix, NOVA and SSK ESPORTS Heimo - (29pts) - 9th in standings - 10 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 61.77% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0.55% Chance to Finish 5-8: 61.22% Chance to Finish 9-12: 35.77% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 2.45% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0.01% After a promising first week of the season that saw Heimo near the top of the standings, the group hit a wall during the middle part of their season and now finds themselves on the outside looking in for a playoff spot. Simulations still had this team making it 61.77% of the time, but those are just the 9th-best odds, so their chances seem sort of split. GOONS and Tohtorit being in the position that they are in helps Heimo, but they will need to earn their way in by playing four teams that are all still fighting for positioning. I'll be honest in saying that I don't love how this group has looked over the last two weeks, as they're 4-5-1 in their last 10 contests and seem to be missing that offensive punch that they showed during the first week of the season. Despite this though, Heimo still controls their own destiny. They have 10 games remaining and won't need any help if they can take care of business on their own. As a playoff hopeful, you really can't ask for much more than that. Their most consequential games will undoubtedly be their series against EXEN, SSK ESPORTS and Tohtorit. Remaining Series: EXEN, NOVA, SSK ESPORTS, Tohtorit and Vapor Polski Boys - (29pts) - 10th in standings - 8 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 18.98% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 18.98% Chance to Finish 9-12: 67.72% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 13.28% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0.02% Though the simulations seemed to be less bullish on Polski Boys' playoff hopes at 18.98%, which ranks 10th, I personally think they have a slightly better chance when you consider their remaining schedule and their performance against teams around them in the standings. They recently swept EXEN and picked up 5 out of a possible 6 points in that series, which arguably saved their playoff hopes considering what the bubble currently looks like. Before that series, they had lost four-straight games against Last Dance and Mythix, so they really needed to find points and did exactly that against a fellow playoff hopeful. Interestingly enough, Polski Boys have a record of 9-5-2 against teams that are ranked lower than 5th in the standings. Their one major blemish was being swept by Vapor on April 17th, which could be what comes back to haunt them if they miss the Top 8. However, with three of their four remaining series being against teams bound for "no man's land" or a relegation playoff, there is some genuine opportunity for Polski Boys to make it into the playoffs, even if they will need a little bit of help from others to do so. Remaining Series: Blackbirds, Mustaa Kultaa, ONSE Esports and The Black Jacks Blackbirds - (28pts) - 11th in standings - 6 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 0.38% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 0.38% Chance to Finish 9-12: 32.71% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 65.86% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 1.05% Though mathematically Blackbirds still have a chance to make it into the playoffs, it would take collecting every point possible in their last six games along with numerous results from other teams to going in their favor. Despite their potential of being a sleeper to make the playoffs coming into the season, this is a team that had zero games of Elite Division experience prior to the Spring. That's a difficult thing to overcome, as the jump from Pro to Elite is a significant shift in skill and game style. It shouldn't be too shocking that Blackbirds have had to learn, grow and adjust as they get used to the division. First-time teams making playoff pushes such as Mustaa Kultaa last season, or SSK ESPORTS this season are exceptions, not the rule, and each of those teams had a least a few players in its lineup with prior Elite experience. I don't think it'd be fair to say that this is a disappointing result for Blackbirds, and a mid-table finish feels like a fair and reasonable result for a team that is still on the ascent in the Elite division. Despite all of this, Blackbirds have likely avoided finishing 16th barring a considerable collapse and a major run from some of the teams behind them. Their goal from this point forward will be to hold on to a Top 12 spot to avoid playing in a relegation series; though this won't be an easy task with games vs Last Dance and Polski Boys still on the horizon. Stealing some points in one of those series, along with earning the majority of points in their series with Vapor, will likely be the key to maintaining their spot. Blackbirds will need to keep a close eye on The Black Jacks and NOVA, as both have games in hand and a path to surpass them in the standings. They've seem to find a decent run of form recently going 5-5-0 in their last 10 games, which will help their cause. Remaining Series: Last Dance, Polski Boys and Vapor SSK ESPORTS - (27pts) - 12th in standings - 12 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 72.72% Chance To Finish 1-4: 2.37% Chance to Finish 5-8: 70.35% Chance to Finish 9-12: 25.55% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 1.72% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0.01% Coming into the final week with the best opportunity of any team outside of the playoffs, SSK ESPORTS are hoping to continue what has been a magical run in ECL 25 that goes all the way back to the final week of the Winter regular season in the Pro Division. Despite sitting in 11th, simulations actually give SSK a 72.72% chance to make the Top 8, one of the best odds of any team that hasn't clinched. You could argue that this is a little high considering their upcoming schedule, but the circumstances are mostly in their favor outside of that. The favorable simulation for SSK ESPORTS comes from the amount of games that they have remaining and the points they've already earned. They'll have two very tough series coming up against Last Dance and Mythix, as well as a series against a fellow playoff hopefuls Heimo and vNexs, but SSK fullly control their own playoff destiny and have proven this season that they can beat playoff caliber teams in this division. The group haven't played since April 27th, so we will have to see if they can continue their winning form, but 6-3-1 in your last 10 games is a pace that's good enough for this team to make the field. It won't be easy, but I personally believe that SSK ESPORTS will end up making it in. Even if they don't make the playoffs, the worst likely outcome for them would be a 9-12 finish, which is a very respectable result for an organization that was in the Pro Division a season ago. Remaining Series: Heimo, Last Dance, Mythix, vNexs, NOVA and Vapor The Black Jacks - (26pts) - 13th in standings - 8 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 3.1% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 3.1% Chance to Finish 9-12: 49.55% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 46.88% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 0.47% The Black Jacks still are alive in the playoff hunt according to the math, but their 3.1% chance don't make for great odds. Combining this with how they have faired against the current playoff teams this season, I have a hard time imagining a miracle run coming from this group over the next week. TBJ will not only need to win most of their remaining games in regulation, but they will also need some help around them in the process to have a realistic shot at the Top 8. Despite this though, they do have a realistic chance to avoid playing in the relegation playoff, which is huge with how successful the Pro division teams have seemed to be in those over the last couple of seasons. The Black Jacks are 5-3-2 in its last 10 games and have done enough to give themselves a chance to surpass Blackbirds for the 12th spot with having games in hand. It's not a given and they'll still be disappointed to have missed the playoffs for the first time since the ECL 23 Spring season (back when they were under the ZSC Esports brand), but avoiding a relegation series would be a small win nevertheless. Barring a miraculous run to close out the season, it'll be either "no man's land" or a relegation playoff to maintain their spot in the division. Their series with ONSE Esports will likely be a big factor to their fate at the end of the regular season. Similarly to Blackbirds, they will also need to keep a close eye on NOVA's results over the next week. Remaining Series: EXEN, Mythix, ONSE Esports and Polksi Boys ONSE Esports - (22pts) - 14th in standings - 6 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 0% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 0% Chance to Finish 9-12: 0.42% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 67.71% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 31.87% ONSE Esports have been mathematically eliminated from playoff contention after going 2-7-1 in its last 10 games. Similarly to Blackbirds, this is a new team to the Elite division. In fact, they earned their way into Elite the week before the season started by winning in a qualifier. However, a tough stretch with only three wins since April 16th ultimately sunk their chances at a playoff berth, and they will now likely be fighting to maintain their spot in the division for next season. Their best chance is hoping to climb into a 9-12 spot, and even that feels like a tough battle that'll likely be decided between themselves, Blackbirds, NOVA and The Black Jacks. Luckily for ONSE Esports, they play the latter two teams to end the season and both are behind them in the standings. However, those two teams also both have games hand and they will still need Blackbirds to drop at least two regulation games while also staying ahead of each of the teams behind them. They will also need to keep an eye on Vapor, as even though the simulations seem to be on their side in terms of automatic relegation, a few wins from Vapor to end the season combined more losses from ONSE could see them slide down to that 16th spot and out of the Elite Division for next season. It's not impossible for them to avoid a relegation scenario altogether, but it'll be a tall order. With where things currently stand, I don't favor their chances and neither did the simulations. ONSE Esports will likely be playing in a relegation series unless things turn in their favor. And unfortunately, automatic relegation isn't out of the question just yet either. Remaining Series: NOVA, Polski Boys and The Black Jacks Vapor - (17pts) - 15th in standings - 8 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 0% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 0% Chance to Finish 9-12: 0.33% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 36.56% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 63.11% As things stand, Vapor have the highest odds of finishing 16th in the standings and being relegated from the Elite division. Though Vapor isn't a team that was viewed as a playoff favorite heading into the season, it at least seemed like a team that could compete for a spot and would like end up middle of the table, as they have plenty of experience throughout their lineup and brought in some respectable transfers. This unfortunately hasn't come to fruition, as they're eliminated from playoff contention and would likely need to earn at least 16 points to avoid playing in the relegation playoff, and even then their place in the Top 12 wouldn't be safe. Their schedule is also a bit of a mixed bag between playoff hopefuls and a team currently ranked in the Top 4 in Mustaa Kultaa. I still believe that this team has talent in its lineup and their experience could be helpful to them in their fight as well. But with NOVA being just two points behind them and having six more games to play, Vapor is in serious danger of relegation. Even if they are able to avoid the dreaded last-place finish, they will still more than likely have to earn their keep in the division against one of the best teams in the Pro Division. Remaining Series: Blackbirds, Heimo, Mustaa Kultaa and SSK ESPORTS. NOVA - (15pts) - 16th in standings - 14 games remaining Chance to Clinch a Playoff Berth: 6.88% Chance To Finish 1-4: 0% Chance to Finish 5-8: 6.88% Chance to Finish 9-12: 41.44% Chance to Play Relegation Playoff: 48.22% Chance to Be Automatically Relegated: 3.46% Don't let their place in the standings fool you, NOVA are still mathematically alive in the playoff hunt, and they actually still have a fair chance at avoiding a relegation playoff series as well. We weren't able to give this team much shine in the midseason report since they had only played 10 games at the time, but since then, they've been able to play six games and actually managed to go 3-2-1 in those contests. Because of this, along with their league-high 14 games left to play, the simulations actually had NOVA qualify for the playoffs 6.88% of the time and gave them a very good chance to avoid finishing 16th. Though their percentage to make the Top 8 was 12th-highest of all teams, I'll admit that a playoff spot doesn't seem very likely to happen for this group. The simulations suggest that NOVA will need to earn roughly 33 points to make the field, which means that they can only afford to take three more losses at most (regulation or overtime). It would take a serious run of form for them to make that happen, and I just don't know how realistic it is for them to win 11 of their last 14 games against the teams that they have to play against. However, I do think that NOVA are a team that could manage to avoid a relegation series if they can play the way they did this past week or even improve on that. They kept their series with Last Dance rather close, falling 3-2 and 5-3 in regulation. They split their series with The Black Jacks, earning 4 out of 6 possible points with a regulation win and an overtime loss. Their most important result was probably their series sweep over Vapor, as they collected 5 out of 6 points over the team that is currently just two points ahead of them in the standings. These are things that the simulations didn't take into consideration, so you could maybe even argue that their 41.44% could be slightly higher than what it is. Other than Mythix and Parasite, every team left on their schedule is either around the playoff bubble, or trying to earn their way into "no man's land". It's not impossible for them to make the playoff field, but I do believe that their path to a 9-12 spot is much more realistic. They're projected to need roughly 18 more points to avoid a relegation playoff, and they have 42 possible points still available to them. That equates to 6 regulation wins in 14 games. This feels doable, and though it won't be easy by any means, I think that they have reasons to feel good about their chances to make it happen. Remaining Series: EXEN, Heimo, Myhthix, vNexs, ONSE Esports, Parasite and SSK Esports Want to keep up with everything happening ECL in the this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to SportsGamerGG on Twitch, YouTube and X.

The fourth season of the Western European Championship League (WECL 4) has come to a close with a spectacular grand final performance by Pirates eSports, who claimed the title in dominant fashion. With a 4-0 sweep over Owned Hexa, Pirates eSports left no doubts about who ruled the ice this season.   🏆 A Final of Control and Precision From puck drop to final buzzer, Pirates eSports executed a game plan built on possession, disciplined defense, and explosive offense. While Owned Hexa showed flashes of potential, including a tight 6-7 OT loss in Game 2, the Pirates consistently capitalized on turnovers and controlled the tempo in each game. Their fluid passing, structured zone entries, and relentless forecheck suffocated their opponents and set the tone early in every match. In the deciding four-game series, Pirates outscored Owned Hexa 27 to 10, with standout performances across their entire lineup.   📊 Pirates eSports - Player Statistics (Final Series) Player Goals   Assists   Points    +/-   Shots   Hits       AdriF_23  4   14   18  +16    18   0       JimmyCooks-_-  6   6   12  +17    17   13       Winci-_o  12   6   18  +17    34   8       Tromi13  2   6   8    +15    10   9       RaphaIsky69  2   8   10  +17    13   5       MANU-LLORIS-16 (G) Saves: 38, SV%: 74.51%   ⭐ MVP of the Finals: Winci-_o While the entire Pirates roster performed at an elite level, @Winci-_o stood out with an incredible 12 goals and 18 total points in 4 matches. His offensive awareness, finishing, and consistency made him a nightmare for defenders and the clear MVP of the WECL 4 Final.   👑 Champions of WECL 4: Pirates eSports Congratulations to Pirates eSports, the undisputed champions of WECL Season 4. With clinical precision, unrivaled synergy, and unshakable confidence, they have earned their place in WECL history. Their run was not just dominant — it was championship caliber at every level. Pirates eSports, take a bow. This was your season.   Pirates eSports  👑 Championship Lineup 👑 #1    Margaux @Andy Caper Mameri  #9    Emmanuel @Emmanuel Peltier Peltier #13  Jake @NotzPanthers Leversuch #14  Nick @xCocii Suzuki #17   Raphalsky @Raphalsky69 Maverlinsky #23   Patrik @Winci-_o Wenzel #33   Calum @Calxm41 Mcateer-Ellis #50  Kieran @KnightK10 Knight #68   Adrien @AdriF_23 Frinkelin #73   Max @Tromi13 Tromeur #77  - @Pekedipeks Pekedipeks   🙏 Thank You to All Teams & Players The WECL 4 journey wouldn’t be the same without the passion and dedication of every team that participated. We extend our deepest thanks to:  Brothers In Gaming Brothers in Gaming 2 EKH GLEBOGRYZARKA  Hawks HC,  HC UKRAINE  HK Bricks  Owned Hexa  Pirates eSports  Pylsais  Silver Sword Griffins  Three Stars  Valence Hockey  Wildcats esport I The WECL administration values the contribution of every single player toward building this competitive and respectful community. Your spirit makes this league thrive.   💬 See You in WECL 5 With the curtain closing on an unforgettable season, we’re already looking forward to the next chapter. Until then — stay sharp, stay united, and we’ll see you on the ice in WECL 5. — WECL Administration Team

The Spring season has come to an end in the Pro division, with ROBE eSports sweeping Vizio in 4 games in the finals in a commanding fashion. With a championship, they claim an Elite division spot for next season, whereas Vizio still has an opportunity to qualify for a spot through the Elite Promotion Battle.   The '25 Spring season has seen a lot of good teams, and now a team assembled by captain @Tihizu not many months ago takes down team after team, including teams with more experience, more seasons under their belt, but none better than this ROBE team. Now his team prepares for a tough season in Elite and will surely get stronger as months go by before the next ECL season begins.   ROBE's season started well; they started off with 7 wins out of a possible 9, they took down some heavy names in Otukset and Blegi, split with POGGERS after a 12-1 loss, and also split with their eventual finals opponent, Vizio. ROBE's regular season was capped with some tough losses that eventually got them to the championship. In round 1, they faced a tough Aspyre team that took them the whole nine yards to a full seven games. While losing a series 3-1 lead, ROBE won the decisive game 7 in a dominating manner. In the quarterfinals, ROBE faced one of the Pro division favourites in Almost Famous, a well-fought 6 games in which ROBE showed their true colors, the colors of champions; they shut down the star-studded former champions and marched on to the next round. The semifinal was a battle against Golden Buffalos, who were probably the favourites for this Pro season and the #1 seed going into the Playoffs.  ROBE faced the Buffalos with a hunger to show the entire Pro division what they are made of and it took 6 games for ROBE to beat the giants - and the giants fell hard indeed. In the finals, they faced their statistically easiest foe; they swept Vizio, beating them 3 times in a one-goal game, even once in overtime.   ROBE's roster really stood out in the playoffs, with @punt1la98 leading the way in the regular season (38+46) and the Playoffs (27+23). They played almost the entire season with the same line-up, @XD_Jacke, their backup netminder played 4 games in the regular season, going 1-2-1. The most impressive thing about this roster was the fact that they never relied on only one guy; if someone was having an off day, there was always someone else to step up. @Tihizu, the captain who built this team was impressive as well, with 19 goals in the playoffs. The defense pairing of @aaksu17 & @lycki10 were numbers 1 & 2 in points for defensemen in the Playoffs. Their chemistry stood out with both being responsible on both sides of the puck, and a force to be reckoned with offensively, scoring 16 goals between them (8 each). And the glue that held their dreams alive, center @jyrki456 really shone this season, as their talented center scored 16 goals in the Playoffs. Goalie @Viltzup had a stellar season as well; the experienced goalie was exactly what ROBE needed to be crowned champions, with a save percentage of 82,62%, he stole a lot of games for ROBE that could have been lost with any other goalie between the pipes.     ROBE esports road to the Championship: Regular season: 18-4-2-8 (64pts) - 4th in group 2. Round 1: 4-3 vs Aspyre Quarterfinals: 4-2 vs Almost Famous Semifinals: 4-2 vs Golden Buffalos Finals: 4-0 vs Vizio   ROBE eSports’ ECL 25: Winter - Pro Championship Roster Forwards: #4 Santeri @punt1la98 Niemi #89 Jaakko @Tihizu Tihinen (C) #98 @jyrki456 (A) Defense: #8 Aleksi @aaksu17 Mäkinen #28 Lucas @lycki10 Lindkvist (A) Goalies: #7 Ville @Viltzup Poutiainen # 37 Jack @XD_Jacke Åkerberg     Congratulations to the team and all the players, see you in Elite! Thank you, all teams and readers, for this season! 

Two weeks have passed since the start of the ECL 25 Spring season, and now we’ll analyze a few teams and how some have performed so far this season! Stats and points are current as of April 23rd, 01:00 EET. Trending Up Three Stars The Latvian group has surprised a lot of teams this season, raking in a PPG of 2.25 so far, leading the entire Pro division. This exciting team plays an incredible style of eHockey, combining skill, puck movement, and good team defense. An impressive season is capped by @artusjo’s point production, sitting at 8th in points with 48 (21+27). With fewer games played than those above him, he is a favorite to top the leaderboards by the end of the season — although good team success must be the priority. Important games coming up: Golden Buffalos Vizio Vizio, who has been around for quite a while now, has finally hit that booster button. Now sitting at the top of their group (for now) with 45 points in 22 games, they have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. When talking about Vizio, the first guy, of course, is team captain and Finnish champion @artuzio. But this time, he is not the one we’re highlighting. @Jetsu28 has been lighting it up for Vizio this season with 32 goals, putting him in 3rd place behind @Konsuk05 and @Winci-_o of the top scorers in the league. If the rest of the team can keep up, we’ll see Vizio go further than the predicted first round. Important games coming up: Afterlife Pirates eSports After splitting with Owned Hexa and creating their own team, Pirates immediately made a statement by winning the WECL. After their dominant championship run, they now continue their remarkable form in the ECL and take on the rest of Europe. Sitting nicely in the top 3 of their group, the most eye-catching thing about the Pirates has been their offense, averaging an astounding 4.6 goals per game. If they keep this pace, we’ll see the Pirates in the top 4 for sure. @AdriF_23 has taken his team on his back with an astounding 75 points (27+48), leading the entire Pro division in points. Close to him is his partner in crime @Winci-_o Important games coming up: ROBE Esports Trending Down Owned Hexa After parting ways with their entire identity, Hexa has now dug themselves into a deep hole. With 7 points in 16 games, there is little hope they will avoid relegation. However, an experienced squad might still have a trick or two up their sleeve to survive for next season. Important games coming up: Chiubigigle Sunne IK eSport A team we had predicted as playoff-bound has had a rough start to the season. With 0 wins in 8 games so far, Sunne IK faces a tough decision: stick with the roster that won them SCL gold, or change their lineup to chase wins in the coming weeks. A few more losses and it’s goodbye playoffs, hello relegation. Important games coming up: HC Lugano eSports Blegi After the departure of @koleslaav_ , Blegi hasn’t been able to live up to the expectations of a playoff-bound team. Now with @tapppu moving to RW and @Kahvinpapu playing at RD, they still have half the games left to play. Sitting at 8th isn’t terrible, but they need to find their game and push for a top 4 position. Important games coming up: Falun Coal Miners Jury’s Still Out Otukset Still an uncertain team. They haven’t had the start we all expected, but are still playing well. They have started strong on offense, averaging 3.79 goals per game. Considering they’ve played mostly against teams above them in the standings and still raked in points, they might still end up with a good playoff seed. Important games coming up: Poggers SSK Prospects With a fairly new team, it’s always touch-and-go for a while before we see the real potential of a squad. They still haven’t shown their true colors as they look to find their starting lineup — 9 players have played so far, making it tough to know who you’re playing with or against. So far they’ve been carried by their star @dippen04 , who has continued where he left off in the SCL. If the rest of the team can support their star player with points and goals, they might just set the record straight. Important games coming up: Aspyre Unique A solid roster usually gets you solid results — but now, it’s not that clear. Unique have the talent and the chemistry to do well in the regular season, but currently sit 12th with a point per game of 1.19. It’s a long road ahead. Difficult? Yes. Impossible? No. Their most experienced player, @Esko-etikka , has been strong this season despite his somewhat struggling teammates. He sits at a 79.19% save percentage, which isn’t bad but could be better. Now, he faces the challenge of playing well while hoping his team delivers the necessary goals to win some games. Important games coming up: Herlev Eagles

ECL ELITE - WEEK ONE STORYLINES We're seven days into the ECL '25: Spring season and are already seeing storylines develop across the Elite division. We've seen everything from early-season surprises (both good and bad), to significant transfers that could very well change to outlook of a team's season. Considering all of that, let's take a look at some of the biggest storylines that we saw take place throughout the first week of action in the Elite Division. Also, thanks again to @Mozjayh for his contributions to this week's article! Defending Champs Looking To Recapture Last Season's Magic As of this writing, Parasite has scored just 13 goals despite registering a staggering 129 shots on net. That is an average of 2.17 goals on 21.5 shots per game. Even though we all know that the goals will come eventually, this is the total opposite of what we saw from this team last season. During the Winter season, Parasite averaged 5.32 goals for per game, which is an ECL record. The team's newest addition, Aaro, has also been held scoreless in their first 6 games. Despite the team's slow start offensively, its defense and goaltending have made up for it plenty, as Parasite has the fewest goals allowed per game by a landslide at 1. This shouldn't be anything to worry about. Parasite is one of the best teams in the world and its only change in the lineup was replacing one of Europe's best wingers (NikkeDangles) with another one of Europe's best wingers (Aaro). They will find their scoring touch eventually and when they do, this will be a non-story. After all, it's not like they aren't creating chances. Still, though, it's something to keep an eye on considering how steep of a drop it is from their Winter season goals number. Tohtorit's Surprisingly Slow Start After back-to-back seasons of finishing in the Top 4 in the standings, Tohtorit is off to a much slower start to their Spring campaign; getting only 2 wins in their first 8 games with only one of them being in regulation. Their start also includes 4 OT losses. Considering the fact that this team brought back its entire lineup from a group that earned the finish 2nd in the regular season standings and made it to the Semifinals just three months, it's surprising to see them struggle to find their form. The reason for their struggles can be pointed at a few factors. One would be their struggles on the penalty kill, something that was a sizable flaw for this team a season ago. So far, Tohtorit has taken 16 PIM and is 50% on the penalty kill. Not good. Additionally, last season's goaltender of the season Stammer has not been up to his usual form, sporting just a 75.7SV% in his eight starts. In comparison, he ended the Winter season with an 86SV% while starting all 28 games. Tohtorit ended their week by playing over 186 in-game minutes in two matches against vNexs. A big 3rd-period comeback in the second game after trailing by two goals earned the team a victory in OT, one that feels much needed after six straight losses going into that game. Mythix Making A Statement Early The story surrounding Mythix coming into the season was whether they could emerge as a true championship contender. One week into the season, and so far they've answered that challenge. Through their first six games, Mythix have earned a total of 16 out of possible 18 points; placing them 2nd in the standings only behind Last Dance. Their offense has been dominant so far, leading the league in goals for per game with 4.67 and a total of 28 goals scored. Sokkelo has been the stand-out player amongst the group, scoring a staggering 14 goals and 21 points in those games, both of which lead the division. They've also been lethal on the man advantage, boasting a 58.33% power play with a total of 7 goals scored. The most impressive part about was Mythix is doing is that they are doing this against multiple playoff-caliber teams; as they were able to sweep both EXEN and Tohtorit in their series' this week. They were especially impressive in the two games against EXEN, and very well could've scored even more with the number of counterattacks they had (they outscored EXEN 10-3 in the series). There's still plenty of hockey left to be played, but based on Week One, Mythix looks like a legitimate championship threat. Combine this with their recent FCL and I think you can officially say that Mythix is the hottest team in Europe right now. Time will tell if they can keep this up, but if they can, look out. Heimo Back On The Rise? Speaking of hot starts, let's talk about Heimo for a minute. The group finished the first week with only 1 loss in 6 games played while having one of the most productive offenses in the division. They've also been able to do this against a pair of playoff teams from a season ago in Last Dance and The Black Jacks, as well as a notable playoff hopeful in Polski Boys. The biggest story for this group has been the offensive boost that their new acquisitions have provided. Last season, Heimo had the second-lowest goal total in the division, scoring just 56 goals and averaging 2 GF/GP. That is only three goals more than the lowest-placed team, which was Renascor. So far this season, the script has completely filled, as Heimo now has the second-most goals scored at 24 and are averaging 4 GF/GP, doubling their number from the Winter. KingOfApes' return to the Elite division has started off with quite a bang, as he's managed to put up an unheard of amount points for a defenceman to begin the season. Through six games, KingOfApes has tallied 18 points, which ranks second in the division. Just to give you an idea of how insane that is, he is currently on pace to finish the season with 90 POINTS. AS A DEFENSEMAN. Is that not unreal??? The most notable series was against Last Dance, who currently sit at the top of the Elite standings. This series saw a totally opposite pair of games, as Heimo managed to earn a 7-1 win followed by a 5-1 loss. They also saw a pair of dramatic games against Polski Boys; losing a lead with just four seconds left on the clock in Game 1, and tying the game with only two seconds left in Game 2. Both games resulted in overtime wins. Can they continue this form? That'll be put to the test on Monday when they play against the defending champions, Parasite. Multiple Notable Transfer Moves Krike - FA -> GOONS A long-standing piece to this GOONS has officially made his return in Krike. Though he hasn't played in any tournaments the whole year, everybody knows his ability and the impact he can bring to a team. In 130 career games as a defenseman, Krike has put up 146 points and 903 hits while being a +56 when on the ice. He'll slot in at LD in GOONS' starting lineup and will not only be someone who can make an immediate impact, but will also be able to fit in well with a group that he is familiar with, as three of his current GOONS teammates were with the team when he last played in the ECL 24 Spring season. This should make for a seamless and smooth transition for all involved. JM98 - Polski Boys -> Vapor Replacing Jemmmuu and taking the LW spot with Nieppii switching wings, JM is a veteran, goal-producing winger who will make an impact on Vapor's forward core. His Elite division resume goes back to as early as ECL 6 with Unlucky Boys, and he's scored as many as 32 goals at this level, doing so with YMCA Esports in ECL 12. In its two games this week against Last Dance, Vapor were held to a pair of one-goal losses and mustered just three goals in the series, averaging 11 shots per game. Though his goal-scoring numbers have gone down in each of the last three seasons, he also found himself on the division's lowest-scoring teams in each of those three seasons with Polski Boys and Renascor. A change of scenery paired with two other proven forwards in Dzouvi and Nieppi should make for a respectable forward trio. Jemmmuu - Vapor -> Polski Boys It's funny how things work out. JM goes to Vapor taking Jemmu's spot, and Jemmu winds up going to Polski Boys, JM's former team. Jemmu played in two games with Vapor this season, registering one point in a pair of one-goal losses to Last Dance. Jemmu has played in one ECL season prior to this season, as he put up 44 points and 36 assists in 30 games with Gotham Knights in the Pro Division last season. He also tallied 59 points in 16 FCL games with TIKI TALK, which ranked second on the team was was 30 more points than the next closest player on the team. With Polski Boys having already played eight games prior to the move and struggling for goals (they averaged just 1.75 goals for per game), it'll be interesting to see if Jemmu can earn his place in the starting lineup as a rookie on a team with a ton of experience and chemistry. Lakritsipiippu - ONSE Esports -> Blackbirds The departure of Blackbirds starting goalie Jeerik17 was followed by a slightly controversial move with ONSE Esports starting goalie Lakritsipiippu switching teams within the division midseason. The rookie goaltender has been able to prove himself by having the third-highest save percentage so far with 86% in six starts, including two with his new team on Sunday, where Blackbirds were able to split the series with the defending champs Parasite. ONSE obviously had to react quickly and were able to acquire Hulkkoo. Hulkko was ONSE's starting goalie last season in the Pro division when they were still known by their previous name Ismon Valinta. He posted a 78.9SV% in the regular season while starting all 30 games. xCurhed - Brynäs IF Esport (Pro Division) -> SSK ESPORTS SSK was able to add to its forward group with the transfer of Curhed. Curhed the season in the Pro division, scoring 25 points in 8 games for Brynäs. Last season was his second ECL season and the most action that he has seen in his ECL career, as he played 28 games with Devilz in the Pro Division, notching 51 points, 23 goals, and 28 assists. Prior to that, he played eight games with Section A12 in the Lite Division in the ECL '24: Spring season, but the team DNF's the remainder of the season. He made his Elite debut on Sunday against GOONS, putting up 3 points with a goal and two assists. The 19-year-old Swedish rookie started at LW in both games. Adaaaam_2 - Brynäs IF Esport (Pro Division) -> SSK ESPORTS Another transfer to SSK ESPORTS from Brynäs IF Esport, Adaaaam will add another defenseman to an already plentiful SSK roster. Adaaaam managed to notch 8 points in his eight starts with Brynäs IF this season, and managed to earn himself 27 points in 28 games with AFTERLIFE in the Pro Division last season. The rookie defenseman played in SSK’s season-opening series against GOONS on Sunday and managed to contribute two assists and 7 takeaways. The two teams split the series with a win-a-piece. Adaaaam started at LD in both contests. Want to keep up with everything happening ECL in the this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to SportsGamerGG on Twitch, YouTube, and X.

The ECL '25 Winter season concluded at the LAN Finals at Assembly where Parasite were crowned the ECL Elite Champions. They claimed the title as the best team in Europe after winning the finals series 4-2 over Mustaa Kultaa. Parasite went into the season as the clear frontrunner for the title and they did not disappoint. Breaking multiple records, both team and individual, this performance will be remembered as one of the most dominating we have witnessed in recent years. NikkeDangles was crowned as the playoffs MVP and for the team Captain Beniittto this now marks the eighth ECL title, continuing to cement their legacy in the ECL history. For Mustaa Kultaa it was a great performance in the Finals and they should be nothing but proud of themselves. They were able to take two games against this all-star lineup, something which many did not expect, and had their chances in all of the games besides the series-deciding game 6. They can now use the experience of the LAN Finals and have all the keys in their hands to have a bright future ahead. The Assembly Winter 2025 stage was a beauty! | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Finals overview Game 1: Parasite 2-1 OT Mustaa Kultaa came out of the gates hot and put Parasite under a lot of pressure. They were able to find lots of shooting opportunities and @Launonexx found the first goal at the halfway of the first period. Parasite struggled a lot to find their game but the score stayed the same through the first two periods. We saw some big saves from both goalies and especially @LatveX was standing on his head at moments. At the start of the third period, Parasite were finally able to find their first goal of the series from Beniittto which saw the game heading into overtime. The OT was a cautious battle but eventually, Vattuyy found the game-winner halfway through the first overtime. Valtteri "Vattuyy" Virtanen celebrates with his teammates | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Game 2: Mustaa Kultaa 3-2 The second game started off with some penalty trouble to Mustaa Kultaa and on their second powerplay chance Parasite found the first goal from the defender of the year in Teemuyy. Despite dominating the time on attack Parasite were not able to put many shots at the Mustaa Kultaa net, but with the 2-0 goal at the start of the third from NikkeDangles the game, and possibly the series, looked to be close to over. A few minutes after @Allupekkaz did manage to bring some life to the team with a goal eleven minutes before the end. It took all the way to the last minute for @xAaro89x to find his first goal of the series tying up the game and not long after, only five seconds before the end, he found the game-winning one-timer. Did we mention the venue was amazing!? | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Game 3: Parasite 5-2 After the comeback victory, Mustaa Kultaa stayed on the gas and took a 2-0 lead with two quick goals from xAaro89x and @NuariJamal. The party was short-lived though as Parasite had tied up the game by the halfway of the second period. Mustaa Kultaa found themselves again in some penalty trouble against the best powerplay team in the league and they paid the full price in the third period. Beniittto found the game-winner in the powerplay and Vattuyy scored two more goals to cap off the victory. A sneak peek behind the Mustaa Kultaa point of view | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Game 4: Parasite 4-1 This time it was Parasites' turn to get off to a flying start with two quick goals in the first period. @Miseee96 was able to bring the game within one with his first and only goal of the playoffs, but that was all they got. Parasite seemed to have found their game and after the 3-1 goal from Vattuyy they did not really give a chance for Mustaa Kultaa to get back into this game. Beniittto capped off the game in the dying seconds and Parasite were one game away from the Championship. Parasite celebrating a goal | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Game 5: Mustaa Kultaa 4-3 OT The fifth game got off to a fast start with two goals from both teams in the first period. In the second Vattuyy found the back of the net with a one-timer and heading into the third period it was all or nothing for Mustaa Kultaa. They managed to create some chances, but eventually, it was a breakaway goal from Allupekkaz that tied the game and we were in for another overtime. It went on for three minutes before xAaro89x capped off his hat trick with a beautiful spin-o-rama snipe to the glove side. xAaro89x (right) scores and Launonexx (center) and Allupekkaz (left) go wild! | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Game 6: Parasite 8-0 Game six was just all Parasite. They took a quick 2-0 lead in the first period and added another one to start the second. There was still some hope left for Mustaa Kultaa but all that was shattered when NikkeDangles found his second of the game at the end of the period. In the third period, Parasite was just playing the time and after some late-minute goals and a fight to cap off the series, it was a rough 8-0 score that ended this season. Parasite celebrates their victory, lead by captain Perttu "Beniittto" Kemppainen | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg Road to the Championship Regular Season: 24-3-0-1, 78 pts, 1st overall Quarterfinals 4-0 vs GOONS Semifinals 4-1 vs Voittamaton Finals 4-2 vs Mustaa Kultaa The ECL '25: Winter - Elite Champions: Parasite | Photo Credit: Feng Deng / SportsGamer.gg (1) Parasite Championship Lineup Perttu @Beniittto Kemppainen Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila Tomi @txmbo999 Laitinen Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen Sebastian @FINSeRe Remes Thank you to everyone who came out to support the finals event at Assembly Winter and Congratulations to Parasite on a well-deserved Championship - see you all in the Spring Season!

Hi SportsGamers, There have been some questions regarding the Regular Season dates, the Transfer Deadline, and the Holiday Break, so we want to clarify all of these topics in one place. Regular Season End - January 15th The regular season is set to end on January 15th, 2026, in all divisions. We understand that this may feel a little extra relaxed for the Core and Lite divisions, where the most active teams will potentially have finished their games already by Christmas, but we communicated the deadline early on, and we therefore do not want to change it, as some teams seem to have made their plans based on it. Be sure to reschedule any games necessary with your opponents in good time and enjoy the holidays!   Transfer Deadline - January 4th, restrictions apply The transfer deadline is January 4th, 2026; however, please note that no team can make transfers in either direction once they have completed their regular season. All transfers, however, are subject to scrutiny by the League Administration. Therefore, transfers can be declined retroactively if deemed to have been illegal, potentially resulting in games played being nullified.    Holiday Break The Holiday Break is planned for December 19th to January 3rd. Teams are allowed to play during this time if they mutually agree to do so; however, no team can be forced to play during this time period.   ECL Lite & Core Playoff system To avoid any confusion, we want to mention that the Lite and Core playoff system for this season will be as follows: A total of 24 teams will go to the playoffs in each division. The top 2 of each group go directly to the 2nd round of the Playoffs. Teams placing 3–6 will be seeded into the first round, meaning #9 vs #24, #10 vs #23, and so on.   As always, thank you for your cooperation and for helping keep the season running smoothly. We wish everyone a great end to the regular season and a relaxing holiday break.

Meet the ECL '25: Spring Cover Gamer: Lauri "sopulii_" Enström The ECL '25: Spring season is here, and leading the way as the Cover Gamer is none other than Lauri @sopulii_ Enström of Blackbirds. A Pro division champion, competitive floorball player, content creator, and a driving force behind Blackbirds' esports project, Enström embodies what it means to be an ECL athlete both on and off the ice. We caught up with him to talk about his journey, his team's rise through the divisions, the connection between virtual hockey and floorball, and what it means to represent Blackbirds on two fronts.   List of previous ECL cover gamers: ECL 8: Erik @Eki Tammenpää  🇫🇮  ECL 9: Hannes @Hansulinho Kettunen  🇫🇮  ECL 10: Casper @ICappeI Lundgren 🇸🇪  ECL 11: Tuukka @FlyerKungen Kuha  🇫🇮  ECL 12: Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen  🇫🇮  ECL '22: Winter: Johan @Lehmannens Lehmann  🇸🇪 & Hampus @l-Furyan-l Duvefelt 🇸🇪 ECL '23: Spring: Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen 🇫🇮 ECL '23: Winter: Erik @Eki Tammenpää 🇫🇮 ECL '23: Spring: Tomi @tomboo- Laitinen 🇫🇮 ECL ‘24: Winter: Adam @dzouvi Menšík 🇨🇿 ECL ‘24: Spring: Perttu @Beniittto Kemppainen 🇫🇮   Interview with Lauri "sopulii_" Enström Congrats on becoming the ECL '25: Spring Cover Gamer! What does this recognition mean to you personally and as part of the Blackbirds organization? Thank you, being named cover gamer is of course a great honour considering the cover gamers in the past. It is very cool to be able to represent the league as a team that was just promoted to Elite for this season. The journey we've had with this team has been unbelievable and finally, after so many seasons in lower divisions, we have our chance to give it all we have at the highest level.   Your journey in the ECL has been steadily rising season by season—how did it all start for you, and what motivated you to keep pushing to this level? I personally started in ECL 11 during NHL 21, but the story of the modern-day Blackbirds really began in the ECL'23 Winter season with xBots. Finally, we were able to build a team around the Xbox community since this was the time cross-play was added to the game. We were also the first and only Xbox team to compete that season, and we managed to push into the Lite division in the qualifiers. Our group has always been pretty close, so I think over the years that has been our strength - being able to really stick together as a group even through the tough times.   Blackbirds had a dominant Winter season and capped it off with the Pro title. What do you think made the difference this time compared to earlier seasons? This is a pretty simple one to answer - we played much more together than any previous season. And we played with this exact roster a lot. Most seasons during our club's existence have seen sometimes even up to 10+ players playing throughout the season. But this past season it was really the first time we were able to play a stable season without a huge amount of roster variance between games. The current roster was mainly 1v1 oriented players in the past meaning the motivation to play a lot of 6s wasn't really there.   You’ve been part of the team’s core through multiple seasons and changes. How has the chemistry evolved, and how important is that off-the-ice connection to your success? I think the off-the-ice chemistry is a huge strength of ours - and has always been. The core of our team has been friends ever since around 2020, so the club was created much after we knew each other. What separates the current lineup from the ones in the past is probably the way we're all more or less on the same page about how we want to play and what our expectations/goals are. It's a young team but I think the past 2 seasons have given us so much growth as a team - both on the ice and off it.   Are there any teams or players in Elite you’re especially looking forward to matching up against? The floorball derby - Blackbirds vs Heimo. Both teams are representatives of Finnish floorball clubs (Blackbirds, Kerava & Westend Indians). Funny enough we have a player playing for Heimo in real life, so this is a matchup I'm looking forward to. SportsGamer was even kind enough to schedule this matchup as a broadcast game.   You’re not just a top-tier NHL player—you also compete in floorball at a high level. How do the two sports complement each other for you, if at all? I've said this for years and I still believe it's true - the virtual hockey gameplay resembles floorball much more than real hockey. So I really think they do complement each other in a lot of ways. The principles of the games are very similar - a good play in one is very likely a good play in the other. The gameplay allows for much more control than real-life hockey does, meaning it's possible to make for example passing plays the same way it can be done on the field in floorball.   What does it mean to represent Blackbirds in both physical and digital arenas? That’s a pretty unique position to be in. Haha, yeah. I've represented Blackbirds in real life for almost 10 years now and it is always a cool feeling to step on the field or virtual ice at "Kurkela Garden". Tune in to the Season Opening Broadcast Tonight! Stay tuned as Lauri and Blackbirds take on their biggest challenge yet in the Elite division. Watch them live this season on twitch.tv/SportsGamerGG and twitch.tv/BlackbirdsUnited follow their journey across both the esports and floorball arenas. Both Blackbirds and ONSE Esports kick off their maiden ECL Elite broadcast matchup together, starting tonight at 19:45 CEST, followed by NOVA taking on Polski Boys - be sure to tune in!  

As most of the divisions have officially reached the half way point of the season, the Elite Division table is beginning to take shape and the playoff picture is becoming clearer. With most of the league having played over 15 games, let's take a quick look at each team and how they've done during the first half of the season. We'll be going in order of the standings as of Monday, April 28th. At the end, I'll then rank these teams into different tiers to evaluate where they stand after the first half of the season. Mythix (46pts) - 1st in standings - 10 games remaining Though I wouldn't say that this team is the biggest surprise of the season, I will say that Mythix have definitely surpassed expectations three weeks into the season. Sitting in first place and sporting the division's second-highest scoring offense at 3.6 goals per game, Mythix have made a statement and have introduced themselves into the tier of championship contenders. Three of their skaters currently take up the Top 5 spots in points. @Sokkelo__ is leading the division in points (48) and goals (28), @temppanen is third in the division with 45 points, and @WeDuX_ is leading the division in assists (39) and has 11 more points than any other defenseman with 43. This team has taken a sizable step forward this season and should undoubtedly be commended for that. They've lost just 4 games all season and 3 of those have come against Last Dance (swept in the series with two regulation losses) and Mustaa Kultaa. Two of those losses were also by just one goal. I do think that they still have to prove that they can beat the expected championship contenders, but they have dominated many of the teams in the middle and bottom of the standings. Their biggest remaining series will be against Parasite, so they'll have their chance to prove that they can do so over the next two weeks. Considering that the highest team that they play in the standings outside of that is SSK ESPORTS in 7th, things line up favorable for Mythix to secure their best regular season finish in club history. Mustaa Kultaa (45pts) - 2nd in standings - 8 games remaining The biggest question for Mustaa Kultaa coming into this season was whether or not they'd be able to replicate to magical Winter campaign and so far, they look on pace to do so. Though they have cooled off a tad over the past two series, they find themselves squarely in the Top 4 for a second straight season and seem on pace to likely stay there. The group has gotten solid production from their usual core, with @Allupekkaz leading the way in points (37) and goals (22). Their defensive pairing of @NuariJamal and @Miseee96 have also been amongst the division's most productive, as Mustaa Kultaa have allowed a division-low 1.86 goals per game. Their steady goaltending duo of @LatveX and @karlssonadam_ also deserve a ton of credit for this, as both currently rank Top 10 in save percentage. The sudden and surprising transfer of @x-_-BoBi-_-x has also proven to be a fruitful addition for last season's Finalists. The Finnish LW has put up 22 points and 19 goals in his 10 games with Mustaa Kultaa since transferring from EXEN on April 22nd. This is a stark contrast in production from his time with EXEN, where he had just 8 points in 8 games played. Though every team in the division other than GOONS have games in hand over Mustaa Kultaa, they look well positioned to earn another high seed in the standings. A strong finish to their schedule will be key, as they'll face multiple teams who are in the thick of the playoff hunt and just outside of the Top 8. They will also have a critical series against Parasite, which could very well help determine the Top 4 seeds. Parasite (39pts) - 3rd in standings - 12 games remaining The defending champions have been as efficient as ever, losing just three games through their first 18 and only losing one game by more than a goal. Though they haven't replicated their ridiculous scoring numbers from a season ago, Parasite still find themselves with the third-best GF/GP at 3.33, pairing it with the second-best GA/GP at 1.89. The usual names for this team have stepped up with balanced efforts, though surprisingly, not a single Parasite skater ranks in the Top 15 in points, as @Beniittto leads the team with 35 points, which ranks tied for 18th. @Vattuyy however has emerged as one of the division's top goal scorers again however. His 23 goals ties for third-most in the division and leads a Parasite team that is loaded with talented scorers. They also lead the league in shots per game at 19.8. @uhNikke and @FINSeRe have once again been stellar sharing the goaltending duties for this team, with both being above an 80sv% and helping to backstop one of the best defensive teams in the division. Though they might not be winning in as flashy of fashion as they did a season ago, none of that really matters in the grand scheme of things. This team wins and they win a lot. They'll likely continue to do so in the home stretch of the season. They have three critical series coming up with 3 of the Top 5 teams in the division, as they still have to face off with Mustaa Kultaa, Mythic and Tohtorit over the next two weeks. After splitting their series with Last Dance this past week, Parasite have put themselves in a great position to secure a Top 2 seed. Last Dance (39pts) - 4th in standings - 14 games remaining Possibly the most impressive team of the bunch this season, Last Dance are currently on pace to finish 2nd in the Elite standings based on points per game, and have more games in hand than any of the current playoff teams. The big story for this group coming into the season was the significant changes that it made to its lineup, as they added @NikkeDangles and @Puantso to join @Eki in its forward group. Those three have been as great as advertised, averaging 3.63 goals per game, which ranks best in the division. The most compelling part about this team is that they do this without shooting the puck that often, as they average just 13.8 shots on net per game; showing that though they don't create a high volume of chances, the ones that they do create are high quality. As the old saying goes, quality over quantity. Outside of a 7-1 loss to Heimo in its second game of the season, Last Dance have yet to really see a bad result They swept their series' against Mythix and Mustaa Kultaa, split its series with Parasite and have lost just three total games this season, with one of those being an overtime loss. This team has everything that you want in a top-tier Elite division team. Skill, experience, good offense, stout defense, and the proven ability of being able to beat their fellow top teams. Tohtorit (36pts) - 5th in standings - 8 games remaining Even though Tohtorit currently sit 5th in the standings and look on track to make the playoffs, I can't help but feel like the first half of their season has been a little disappointing. This team brought back its entire starting lineup for a third straight season and were coming off of a Winter campaign where they finished 2nd in the regular season and made it to the Semifinals run before falling to Mustaa Kultaa. Unfortunately, a slow start to the season really plagued this group early, as they had lost 7 of their first 10 games to begin the season. In Tohtorit's defense, six of those losses were by just one goal, and five of them were in overtime. Since then, they've been able to steady the ship, going 5-4-1 in their last 10 games as of Monday. Still, though, this group has undeniably taken a step back from a season ago. Their GF/GP has gone from 2.79 in the Winter, to 2.50 in the Spring, which ranks just 10th in the Division Last season, they were ranked 6th. Their GA/GP has also jumped from 2.04 to 2.41, though to their credit, this still ranks Top 5 in the division, so it's not as if they have been bad defensively by any means. In terms of the positives, their captain @Ojala16 has put together another fine season at the LW spot, as he ranks second in Elite in both points (41) and goals (24). @Ricco (KDoneof1) has also recently stepped up in between the pipes. He's played in each of Tohtorit's last six games and has posted a 5-1-0 record with an 85.2% save percentage and a 1.33 GAA. He has also recorded two shutouts. I'm not ready to count this team out yet, but I can't say that I feel nearly as confident about their status as a championship contender as I did when the season began. Just 3 of their 11 total wins are against current playoff teams, which isn't particularly inspiring for a team of Tohtorit's caliber. Their last four series are against Last Dance, Parasite, EXEN, and Heimo. All of these teams could very well be in the playoffs in two weeks time and two of them are ranked in the Top 4 currently. These will be critical points that Tohtorit cannot afford to drop, so if they can find a way to secure at least 15 points out of that series (24 points are the maximum possible), then I'll feel a little better about where this team is heading into the playoffs. For now, I'm going to feel more reserved about how far this team can go. GOONS (33pts) - 6th in standings - 6 games remaining With the least amount of games remaining of any team in the division, GOONS find themselves in a rather similar spot as they did this time last season. In the playoff hunt, and holding onto a playoff spot for dear life. This team has been plagued by inconsistencies this year; going on runs of losing followed by runs of winning. Their longest winning streak this season is three, while their current four-game losing streak is their longest drought of the season. It's just difficult to earn points when you can't gain a consistent run of winning form. GOONS are playing their typical unique style of hockey. They constantly rip shots on net, they fly up and down the ice, and they lay down punishing hits that are a burden for opponents to handle. They lead the league in hits with 881, which is more than double the amount of any other team in the division. They also average 15.8 shots per game, which ranks second only behind Parasite, and they are the fifth-highest scoring team in Elite at 2.88 GF/GP. @tkantola has put together another solid season with 47 points in 24 games, which leads the team and currently ranks second in the entire division. Along with Kantola, each of their three forwards have scored 20+ goals this season, as he, @Xkeineri and @Lekxsa_70 each rank Top 10 in the division as of now. They did see a significant player transfer out in @kriketski17, who moved over to EXEN on April 20th. Kirk was one of GOONS' most productive players during his 12 games with the club, compiling 17 points, 137, and a +6 plus/minus. Their last three series are against Last Dance, Parasite, and The Black Jacks. Considering this, their limited games remaining and just an eight-point gap over 9th place, their playoff hopes feel up in the air as of now. They also look like a team that is trending in the wrong direction, as GOONS are just 3-5-2 in their last 10 games. Regardless of how they finish, they should more than likely avoid having to play in a relegation series, barring a major run from one of the teams that are currently in the bottom four. SSK ESPORTS (27pts) - 7th in standings - 12 games remaining I want to start out by apologizing to SSK ESPORTS. If you go back to the ECL Season Preview, I picked this team to finish last in the standings and said that the goal for this group would simply be growing and improving at the Elite level. Fast forward to Week Four, and SSK ESPORTS are firmly in the playoff hunt. A part of media is being honest, which sometimes means admitting when a peer or team proves you wrong. This team has done exactly that, so I want to make sure to give them their flowers this time around. It's certainly well-deserved. SSK ESPORTS have been one of the best offensive teams in the division during the first half of the season, averaging 2.94 goals for per game, which ranks fourth-best in Elite. They also sport the league third-strongest power play at 38.1%. This group also has a balance offensive attack and can produce all over the ice, as four of their five skaters have already reached the 30-point mark this season. One of the biggest keys to this teams success has been the production that they have seen from their transfers, specifically their midseason moves. @bystrom___ has proven to be a key addition for this team, as his 30 points ranks third in the division for defensemen. He came over from Unwanted in the offseason and has fit in seamlessly with some familiar faces. Their two midseason additions of @xcurhed and @Adam2 have proven to be especially fruitful. These two started the season with Brynäs IF Esport in the Pro Division and came into this season without a single game of Elite division experience. Fast forward to today, and Curhed currently leads this team in points (38) and goals (20), while Adam has been an efficient, two-way defenseman who has gelled seamlessly with Bystrom and has been a key piece to their defensive structure. Additionally, SSK have also shown that they can compete with other playoff-caliber teams, as they split their series with Tohtorit, GOONS, EXEN, and Polski Boys. Their most impressive feat this season came on Sunday, as they were able to sweep their series with Mustaa Kultaa and collected 5 out of 6 points. SSK still has some tough series to play against Last Dance and Mythix and two critical series against vNexs and Heimo, but they've positioned themselves well to secure a Top 8 spot and still have a series against two of the division's bottom three teams in Vapor and The Black Jacks. They are 6-3-1 in their last 10 game,s and if they can continue their current form, I don't see any reason why they can't end up with a respectable playoff seeding. vNexs (27pts) - 8th in standings - 12 games remaining Currently holding onto the eighth and final playoff spot as of this writing, vNexs have had a season mixed with ups and downs. The team have only gotten one series sweep, which was their two wins over Vapor, but they have managed to find their way to points in most of their series; as they've been able to earn at least one standings point in all of their series so far. They may not be a team that blows you away with blowout wins and lengthy winning streaks, but they consistently find their way to 1-4 points in every series they play in, and that adds up late in the season. In terms of individual performers, their forward trio of @AntonLxnd, @pappeen- and @antoniomannen004 have been the team's primary point producers this season, with each of them eclipsing 30+ points and no other skater on their team having more than 12. AntonLxnd leads the way for this team in both points (40) and assists (24), which each rank Top 10 in the division. @Skumboo has also been one of the division's most impressive goalies thus far, as his 84.56% save percentage ranks Top 5 in the league and second amongst goalies with at least 10 games played, trailing only karlssonadam from Mustaa Kultaa. He should be a candidate and a frontrunner for Goaltender of the Season if he is able to keep up his production. They've hit a bit of a slide in their last 10 games, posting a record of 4-2-4 during that time, but they're still accruing points, which is the important thing. With where they are with just a couple of weeks to go in the season, those points may be the difference between a playoff spot and no-man's land for a vNexs team that are looking to make it back into the Top 8 for the first time since ECL 24 Winter. EXEN (25pts) - 9th in standings - 14 games remaining After a scarily slow start to the season that saw this team ranked last in the standings for a breath period of time, EXEN have turned things around since Week One and find themselves in great form and arguably as one of the hottest teams in the division as of now. For context, this team lost six of their first eight games of the season, with all of those being regulation losses. They only earned 4 points out of a possible 24 points during that stretch. That is a run that's bad enough to seriously damage a team's season, but EXEN have completely flipped the script since and have gotten themselves in the thick of the playoff race halfway through the season. For lack of a better term, this team is weird on statically. They're 11th in the division in GF/GP, but 6th in GA/GP. Their 39.13% power play is second-best in Elite, but their 51.61% penalty kill is the worst in Elite by over 16%. They've also taken the fourth most PIMS in the division at 57. This group are really hard to figure out, and it's tough to tell whether or not they're a team that is just good enough to make the playoffs, a good enough to make a run, or if they're even a playoff team at all. Outside of their recent addition of @kriketski17, @Pikkarii has been far and away EXEN's most productive and consistent player. The center and former Elite division champion leads EXEN with 29 points and 20 assists this season. Behind him, the previously mentioned Krike, who joined EXEN a week ago and is already tied for the team lead in goals with 12 and tied for second in points with 19. @Kaz_zu has also quietly had another really impressive season, posting an 83.13% save percentage while starting all 16 games for EXEN. He should be an early candidate for goaltender of the season as things stand. If I'm being honest, I really don't know what exactly to think of this team. Only three of their nine total wins have come against teams currently in the playoffs, and they have a tough schedule remaining despite so many games in hand. Their series against the likes of vNexs, Polski Boys, and Heimo will be battles between bubble teams, while they will likely hope to steal points against a pair of current playoff teams in Mustaa Kultaa and Tohtorit. This group is really hard to figure out, and it's tough to tell whether or not they're a team that is just good enough to make the playoffs, a team that is good enough to make a run, or if they're even a playoff team at all. I guess time will tell! Blackbirds (25pts) - 10th in standings - 8 games remaining Though Blackbirds were viewed as a potential playoff sleeper heading into the season, the team has run into some of the expected growing pains that you see as a team that had zero games of Elite division experience in its lineup coming into the season. Having gotten to call this team's games multiple times on broadcast this season, I think that they've proven that they belong in the division. They're often competitive and keep games close, but seem to lack the consistent play to truly maximize their potential right now. They currently rank in the middle-to-lower end of the league in just about every single statistic and they haven't really created any significant strengths in those areas to help set them apart from other teams in the division. This ultimately hurts them in close games, and though they do keep many of their games close, they seem to be missing that one key element or play to turn those games into wins consistently. In fact, 5 of their 12 regulation losses so far are by one goal, and they've only taken one overtime loss this season while winning three overtime games. Those are critical points lost, and with where they currently stand in the table, it could likely be what hurts their playoff chances at the end of the season. This is the difference between them and teams such as vNexs or Tohtorit, who, despite not having the most wins, have placed themselves in a playoff position due to their ability to accumulate points in each series, even if it's only just two or three. @aomyo6195 and @sopulii_ have both been standouts at forward for this team this season. Aomyo has led the way with 41 points and 20 assists, while Sopuli is right behind him with 38 points and has scored a team-high 22 goals. Aomyo is currently Top 10 in the division in points and both of them currently rank Top 10 in goals. Both of them will likely be in the Rookie of the Season race at this current pace. @Lakritsipiippu has also been stellar for this team in goal. Since transferring from ONSE Esports after Week One, Lakritsipiippu has put up an 82.76% save percentage and a 2.78 GAA in 18 starts with the team. His total save percentage this season of 83.33% in 22 starts ranks him Top 5 in the division and third amongst goalies with at least ten games played. He could very well be a Goaltender of the Season and Rookie of the Season candidate in June. They ended a seven-game losing streak recently and have responded by winning four of their last six games, with three of those wins being against current playoff teams GOONS and Tohtorit, so they are showing improvement and are trending in the right direction at the right time. They have a difficult series on the horizon against Last Dance, but the remainder of their series are against teams on the playoff bubble or outside of it, as they'll play against vNexs, Polski Boys and Vapor. They will likely need to win at least six of these games to feel good about their playoff chances, as most of the teams around them have games in hand. But if they can at least avoid a relegation series, that will be a respectable result for an inexperienced team in their first Elite season. Polski Boys (24pts) - 11th in standings - 12 games remaining Another season, another tight playoff hunt for Polski Boys. It feels like this group consistently finds themselves in this position, whether that's for better of for worse. You can't help but respect it, this team consistently is in the thick of the race in Europe's toughest 6v6 competition, but at the same time, this is their fourth season in Elite, and they've yet to make a playoff appearance in their time here. Sooner than later, you'd hope to see them elevate and take that next step. They're still in the position to do so, but they certainly haven't made their job easy. Losing 5 of their first 6 games to start the season hampered this team early, but they've found their stride since and have earned series sweeps against current playoff teams Tohtorit, vNexs, and GOONS. They also managed to split their series with another playoff team in SSK ESPORTS. This sets Polski Boys up well in what is a tightly contested race, and could be a key factor for them at the end of the season. Though Polski Boys have struggled a bit on their own end, allowing 2.78 GA/GP and being 70% on the PK, their offensive game has been able to make up for it and ranks amongst some of the division's top teams, as they are tied for 6th with 2.83 GF/GP. Speaking of offense, Polski Boys are arguably one of the most balanced offensive teams in the division, as each of their five skaters have tallied 20+ points this season. @cTunkeilija leads this team in points (35) and assists (21), while the long-time captain @Brockela22 is the team's leading goal scorer at 16. Polski Boys have some tough series coming up, as they'll have to go up against two of the division's best teams in Last Dance and Mustaa Kultaa before the season ends, however, they will have some opportunities for points against fellow bubble teams such as EXEN, Blackbirds and ONSE Esports. Though they have a few teams that they'll need to pass, their remaining schedule is reasonable and they only sit 3 points outside of the final playoff spot as things stand. This team missed the postseason by just a single point a season ago and were bounced from the last available playoff spot on the final day of the regular season. They'll have the chance to rectify that heartbreak over the next two weeks. Heimo (23pts) - 12th in standings - 12 games remaining After a hot start to the regular season that saw them average 4 goals for per game during their first six games, Heimo have hit a rough patch and find themselves at a familiar crossroads, looking up at multiple teams in the playoff chase and posting a record of 2-7-1 in their last 10 games. It's disappointing to see how drastically their form has dipped after such a promising start to the season, as they've gone from one of the division's hottest teams, to arguably its coldest at the most important time of the season. Since that six-game start to the season, Heimo have earned just 10 points in their 12 games since. That's 10 points out of a possible 36 that they could've earned. As mentioned earlier with EXEN, stretches like this can doom a team's playoff aspirations, and Heimo are now in a situation where not only are they in the thick of a tight playoff hunt, but they are also looking for answers on how to recapture their early-season form. Similarly to Polski Boys, this team is a balanced offensive team, with each of their five skaters having 20+ points so far this season. The right side of the ice has been where their best point production has come, however, as their starting RW @Eeemill_ and RD @KingOfApes_ are tied for the team lead in points with 28, with Eeemil leading the team with 16 goals and KingOfApes leading the way in assists with 21. Where they have really struggled, however, is defensively, as their 3.44 GA/GP is the second-highest in the league, only ranking better than GOONS who average 3.5. Though I believe that this team has the skill and experience to make a push for a playoff spot, and they aren't that far behind at just a four-point gap, their recent play doesn't inspire a whole lot of confidence in them being able to turn things around. I do believe that their schedule favors them, as the highest team in the standings that they'll face for the rest of the season is Tohtorit in 5th. Everyone else that they play is either behind them in the standings, or within four points. In other words, they still control their own destiny, and it wouldn't be wise to count them out, however, they need to find the answers to their struggles and fast. They simply can't afford to drop any more points with so many critical series coming up, especially against fellow bubble teams such as SSK ESPORTS, EXEN, and ONSE Esports. ONSE Esports (22pts) - 13th in standings - 8 games remaining This is where I feel like the playoff cutline becomes a bit muddier. Though it's not impossible for ONSE Esports to make their way into the Top 8, they will need a near flawless run to end the season, as well as for a few results to likely go their way. I know that five points isn't a large gap, but they have multiple teams ahead of them with games in hand and aren't as close to the cut line as a team like Blackbirds, who are in the same position. This team is also in the same situation as Heimo to where they are arguably one of the coldest team in the division right now, as they're also 2-7-1 in their last 10 games. Though ONSE have been good enough on their own end, lack of offensive production has severely plagued the team so far this season.They average a league-worst 1.54 goals for per game, average just 10.9 shots per game, and have the second-worst power play in the division at 12%. They -23 goal differential also ranks last in the division currently. Though I feel like this group have shown potential at certain points of the season, these aren't the numbers of a playoff team, and it'll likely keep them out barring a significant change in form to end the season. In terms of positive things with this group, @Hulkkoo is someone that I believe deserves much more credit than he has likely received for his work this season. Hulkkoo has stepped up admirably and has arguably been ONSE's best player this season, as in 18 starts he's posted an 80.23% save percentage while playing on a team that has struggled to support him offensively. He's been a long-time staple for this team during their time in the Pro Division under the Ismon Valinta branding, so it's nice to see him proving himself in what is his first season in the Elite division. Outside of him, ONSE have just two players on its roster with 20+ points in @Puosu_ and @Jusu121. The one thing going in this team's favor over its next eight games is that none of their opponents are currently playoff teams. Two of those teams are even behind them in the standings. Though there are no easy game in the Elite division, their remaining strength of schedule of one of the weakest in the Division in terms of record and will give them the opportunity to play teams right around their place in the standings and could help get them out of a relegation series if they can take advantage. I personally don't see this team having a true chance to make the playoffs at this point, but if they can at least are their way into "no man's land", their first season in the Elite division will be ashamed of. The Black Jacks (17pts) - 14th in standings - 14 games remaining Though it may not be too surprising to some with the significant losses to their roster, I honestly didn't expect this team to have such a steep drop-off after making the playoffs just a season ago. Typically, The Black Jacks are right in the playoff mix this time of season; instead, they seem to be fighting for their right to even stay in the Elite division altogether. Both their offensive and defensive production have completely dipped this season, with both ranking fourth-worst in the division at 2.06 GF/GP and 3.19 GA/GP. The weirdest thing about this team is that they actually have been the definition of a see-saw. TBJ have alternated sweeps in each of their last five series. Two straight wins followed by two straight losses. Like clockwork. It's just tough to really get any momentum going in the standings when you continually alternate results like this, especially when those losses are mostly in regulation. Team captain @Timasy has primarily led the way for the group, leading the team in points (24), goals (11), assists (13) and game-winning goals (3). @ProfaneKiss has also proven to be a rather solid transfer addition with 20 points of his own. I hate to talk too much about former players, especially considering the circumstances in this case, but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the obvious difference in The Black Jacks this season in comparison to past seasons. This team undoubtedly is not the same without@Keuschemisch. He had been a catalyst for so much of its offensive production over the years and even led this team in points in each of the last four seasons. It's difficult to replace a player of his caliber, but especially one that as so important to this team's system and play style offensively. This team just hasn't seemed to find the right adjustments yet to supplement that loss, and it's turned them into a pedestrian offensive team that can only afford to allow one or two goals to win games. They have more games in hand than many of the teams ahead of them and most of them are against teams in or around the playoff bubble, so TBJ isn't dead yet, but it's going to take them finding the answers to major questions that they haven't seemed to solve yet, and they are running out time to find those answers. Vapor (16pts) - 15th in standings - 10 games remaining This is another team that I didn't expect to have such a steep fall off. Vapor, formerly TIKI TALK, found themselves just outside of the playoffs last season and didn't even have to worry about playing in a relegation series. However, a few key roster loses always left the possibility for things to change, either for the better or for the worst. Unfortunately for Vapor, the latter has come to fruition. As of now, Vapor look like they will be out of the playoff and will be fighting for a spot in "no man's land", which at this rate, also seems like it could be out of reach as they trail 12th place by seven points with just 10 games remaining. Oddly enough, this team has actually run into the opposite problem that it ran into last season. Instead of being a high-end offensive team that struggled to keep other teams from scoring on them, now they are a stout defensively team that has serious struggles when it comes to generating offense. This team only allows 2.6 goals against per game, which actually ranks them 7th in the division and is ahead of multiple current playoff teams. However, they have the second-lowest GF/GP in the division at 1.75 and only average 11.8 shots per game. This is a significant dip for a team that returns multiple pieces from a group that averaged 3.11 GF/GP and ranked 4th in Elite in that category. Similarly to The Black Jacks, the loss of the heart of their offensive structure is a key reason for why there's been such a drop off in production. The team's two top point-getters in PardyTime and TeMex both departed the team in the offseason, and with those two, also went a combined 60 goals scored between them. 69% of their goals scored as a team last season came from those two players. That is a massive thing to have overcome, and unfortunately for Vapor, it just hasn't happened thus far. @Pensasmies leads the team in points as a defenseman with 24 points through 20 games. Despite the rough season overall for the team, they should be pleased with the performance from their goaltending duo of @I-Bysse-I and @Gresu__, as both are above an 80% save percentage while each playing 10 games this season. Unfortunately, this team's playoff hopes are pretty much dashed. Though they aren't officially eliminated mathematically, it would take miraculous circumstances for this team to make the Top 8. They still have critical games on the horizon against Blackbirds, Heimo and NOVA, who each could be fighting for spots to avoid a relegation series if they aren't able to make late playoff pushes. Otherwise, Vapor will unfortunately be playing for their place in the division for next season. NOVA (6pts) - 16th in standings - 20 games remaining It's tough to really judge this team, as they've only played in 10 games and haven't played a game since April 16th. Unfortunately for this team, what we saw from them in their first few series was not necessarily impressive. NOVA went 2-7-1 during that 10-game stretch with just one of those wins being in regulation. In their defense, six of those games were against current playoff teams in Mustaa Kultaa, Tohtorit and GOONS, while the other games were against teams just outside of the playoffs, Blackbirds and Polski Boys. They've been riddled with roster changes, as their two top point producers in @Easychasniper2 and @LaxenHD have each departed to new teams over the last two weeks. This team has so many games left to play that you can't really rank them properly right now. They have a ton of series' left against teams on or around the playoff bubble, and there is a wide range of possibilities for this group as of now. The positive is that they control their own destiny and have more games in hand than any other team in the division. The negative is that they've had to make significant roster changes midseason that they didn't expect, and they really struggled to start the season. I'll be honest that their circumstances aren't favorable, but maybe the time off and some fresh ideas within their lineup will do them some good. I apologize that I don't have more to say on this team, but it's hard to give a fair assessment with how little they've played compared to the rest of the division. Midseason Power Rankings & Tiers These power rankings are merely opinions and are based on how the teams have performed up to this point, as well as the teams that they have played against during that span. This is not a playoff or final standings prediction. Please do not take it personally where I ranked your team. I did this purely for fun and to maybe generate conversation for others to give their opinions, it's nothing personal and is all in good spirit! BEST OF THE REST (CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS): 1. Last Dance 2. Mythix 3. Parasite 4. Mustaa Kultaa LIKELY PLAYOFF TEAM (BUT NOT DEFINITE CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS): 5. Tohtorit FRINGE PLAYOFF TEAMS (TRENDING UPWARDS): 6. SSK ESPORTS 7. EXEN FRINGE PLAYOFF TEAMS (NOT HOT OR COLD RIGHT NOW): 8. vNexs 9. Polski Boys FRINGE PLAYOFF TEAMS (BUT I HAVE CONCERNS): 10.GOONS 11. Blackbirds 12. Heimo LIKELY OUT OF THE HUNT (HOPING TO FINISH 9-12): 13. ONSE Esports 14. The Black Jacks 15. Vapor INCOMPLETE (CAN'T FAIRLY RANK AT THE MOMENT): NOVA Want to keep up with everything happening ECL in the this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to SportsGamerGG on Twitch, YouTube and X.

Europe’s best NHL 25 teams meet on the big stage for the 6v6 European Championship Finals The ECL ’25: Winter Finals are set to take center stage at Assembly Winter 2025 in Helsinki next week! 🏆🔥 On Thursday, February 20th, Mustaa Kultaa and Parasite will battle for the championship in front of a live audience—an event you won’t want to miss! If you hold an ECL ’25: Winter Player License or an ECL ’25: Player License, you’re entitled to a free ticket for the ECL ’25 Finals day at Assembly Winter. This is your chance to experience the Finals live and connect with the community! 🎟 Claim your free ticket now: https://forms.gle/eZdDm63kdv3ksa4L9 🚨 Tickets are first-come, first-served, so act fast! Over 80 community members have already signed up, and we’re looking to bring together as many of you as possible for this unforgettable event. For more details about Assembly Winter 2025, visit https://assembly.org/en/events/winter25. We can’t wait to see you there! 🙌🎮 QUICK FACTS Date & Location 📅 Thursday, February 20th, 2025 📍 Assembly Winter 2025, Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre ⭐ Main Stage: 19:00 – 23:59 EET (Action starting at 18:00 CET) Watch Live on Twitch 📺 Streamed live on twitch.tv/SportsGamerGG 🎙️ Commentary in English, featuring @Tougie24 & @Eki Event Overview The ECL ’25: Winter Elite Finals brings together the top two teams from the most competitive NHL esports league in Europe. After battling through the 16-team regular season and intense best-of-seven playoffs, the finalists will face off live on stage to claim the European Championship Title.

After a tightly contested regular season that saw plenty of storylines across the table, eight teams have separated themselves from the rest of the field and have earned their right to play for an Elite division championship. In a playoff field mixed with new and old faces, just 12 wins separate them from their biggest goal for the season: being crowned champions. Let's break down each of the eight teams and all four Quarterfinals series. Also, a thank you to @Mozjayh for his contributions to this article. Playoffs schedule (BO7) Quarterfinals Monday 26.5 20:00 CEST Last Dance vs Tohtorit (G1-4) Wednesday 28.5 20:00 CEST Exen vs Mustaa Kultaa (G1-2) 21:20 CEST Mythix vs SSK Esports (G1-2) Thursday 29.5 20:00 CEST Exen vs Mustaa Kultaa (G3-4) 21:20 CEST Parasite vs Heimo (G1-2) Sunday 1.6 ⚠️19:30 CEST Parasite vs Heimo (G3-4) 20:40 CEST Mythix vs SSK (G3-4) Monday 2.6 ⚠️19:30 CEST Exen vs Mustaa Kultaa (G5-7) AFTER ABOVE SERIES Last Dance vs Tohtorit Wednesday 4.6 ⚠️19:30 CEST Parasite vs Heimo AFTER ABOVE SERIES Mythix vs SSK Semifinals Sunday 8.6 - 20:00 CET | 2vs3 & 1vs4 | Games 1-2 Monday 9.6 - 19:30 CET | 1vs4 | Games 3-7 Wednesday 11.6 - 18:30 CET | 2vs3 | Games 3-7 Finals Saturday 14.6 - TBC (1) Last Dance vs (8) Tohtorit Regular Season Series (May 4th): - Last Dance 4-2 W - Last Dance 4-1 W Last Dance Unquestionably the most consistent team in the regular season, Last Dance secured the #1 seed after a 77-point regular season that saw them win 26 games (including 24 in regulation). Despite such a dominant season, however, the storylines surrounding this team are plentiful. The obvious one is the "Last Dance" mantra. Could this potentially be the last shot at a championship for multiple players on this roster? Is retirement approaching for some of them? If so, who? Is it simply a matter of their core group each going their separate ways after ECL '25? These are all questions that we have yet to see answers to publicly, but we will more than likely find out sooner rather than later. Another story is: can some of these players finally reach the top of the ECL mountain once again? Though Last Dance has players from 13 of 19 championship teams in division history, only @NikkeDangles has lifted an Elite division trophy since ECL 12, with @Eki not winning since ECL 11 with FILADELPHIA and @Hansulinho, @Puantso and @Zande95 last winning with HAVU GAMING in ECL 10. The group boasts a lethal offense that features each of the division's top three point producers in Nikke (87pts), Eki (81pts) and Puantso (73pts). As a team, Last Dance averaged 4 goals per game in the regular season, which is tied for the third-highest in the history of the Elite division. The only two teams to score more goals in a season were Parasite last season and Linköping in ECL 10. They were also one of the better teams in their own end, allowing just 2.13 goals allowed per game, which ranked third in the division. @J-_-Jamaltheman or @Lxndstrom have been stellar in their return as a defensive pairing this season and have long-standing chemistry going back to their time with JYP Jyväskylä, as well as with Hotbox and Hokurit in the Lite and Pro division. Neither have won a title yet in their respective careers, though each have made a semifinal appearance and will be looking to add a title to their resumes. Tohtorit If you had told me in April that Tohtorit would be the 8th seed and would have to wait until the final day of the season to even know if they'd make the playoffs, I honestly wouldn't have believed you. This team was the #2 seed last season and were just three wins away from playing in the Finals. Yet here we are, and that's what makes the Elite division so unpredictable and so tough to compete in. For context, this team had a measly 5.25% chance to qualify for the playoffs on the last Monday of the regular season. However, they clutched up at the perfect time, collecting 9 out of 12 possible points in their final two series against Parasite and Heimo while Polski Boys lost each of their final three games in regulation, giving Tohtorit a three-point gap and the final available playoff spot. In terms of their production, Tohtorit took a significant step back offensively, going from 2.79 GF/GP in the Winter season, to 2.47 in the Spring season. They also saw themselves slide a bit defensively, going from allowing 2.04 goals per game to 2.47 this season. That is a bad combination with the increased parity throughout the division this season, and it'll be imperative for Tohtorit to rediscover its form from the Winter against a dominant opponent in Last Dance. @Ojala16 (52pts, 28 goals) and @profiilipakki (48pts, 29 assists) led the way for this team offensively. @Kkarkass will also be someone to look out for as usual, as he finished second in the division in time with the puck at 210:52, and will be critical to Tohtorit's ability to generate offense in this series. @Stammer70 also had a nice season with an 81.25 SV% and 2.68 GAA in 22 starts. His stats suffered a bit at the beginning of the season, but he was able to find his way after the halfway point of the season. He's the defending Goaltender of the Season for a reason, and he'll need to play like it in this series for Tohtorit to pull off an upset. Prediction: I would've assumed that this series was a semifinals matchup earlier in the season, but that's why they play the games! I like this Tohtorit team and feel like they are a much better group than what they showed in the regular season. They got hot at the right time to end the season and had the results of other teams fall their way to earn a spot in the Top 8. Momentum is real, and I think that this is one of the more dangerous #8 seeds that we have seen in a long time. Unfortunately, they are running into a juggernaut with Last Dance that are hungry to win a title, and it feels like Tohtorit are just missing a gear compared to last season. I think that Tohtorit could make things interesting due to their chemistry and recent momentum, but I'd be stunned if Last Dance allowed for their title hopes to slip in the Quarterfinals. They're just too talented and too consistent. @bMaJuH: Last Dance in 5 @Mozjayh: Last Dance in 5 (2) Mythix vs (7) SSK ESPORTS Regular Season Series (May 4th): - SSK ESPORTS 5-2 W - Mythix 4-2 W Mythix As a team that found itself in the middle of the playoff table in each of the past two seasons, Mythix earned the #2 seed and were in the Top 3 for most of the season, earning its third playoff birth in as many Elite seasons. They went from 48 points last season to 67 points in the Spring, which was the second-biggest jump of any returning team, only trailing Last Dance (Voittamaton last season). So what was the difference between this season and their prior two runs? Multiple players are having a career season, and an elite offense is being paired with equally elite defense and goaltending. Along with averaging 3.5 goals scored per game, tied for the second-highest in the division and 1.18 improvement from last season, Mythix also allowed the lowest GA/GP at 1.77, being the only team in the division that allowed less than two goals per game. This team has also been special on the man advantage, as their 51.11% power play is the highest power play percentage in Elite division history. Their transfer additions over the offseason have transformed this group. After transferring from the demoted and now-defunct Roots Gaming, @Sokkelo__ led the way for Mythix this season with 69 points and 37 goals, which both ranked amongst the Top 5 in the division. Not only was he one of the most productive players in the league this season, but this will also be his first playoff appearance in his 12 seasons in the Elite division; finally breaking the ill-fated streak that's been pinned to him over the years. Alongside him was his fellow forward @temppanen, who put up a career high 61 points, 31 goals, and 30 assists after transferring from Voittamaton. Their final addition was on the defense with @Akunkku, who leads the division in takeaways with 115 and is tied-4th in interceptions with 193. He has been a steady defense partner with @WeDuX_, who ironically is the one tied with him in interceptions. Speaking of WeDux he arguably been not only the best defenseman in the league this season, but arguably the Elite division's most improved player this season. In 30 games, WeDux tallied 58 points with 52 assists and 89 takeaways, some of the best numbers of anyone in Elite this season. His improvement this season has been drastic, as last season he had just 18 points, 15 assists, and 55 takeaways. @TeikDaun has also had a career season in net, posting an 83.49 sv% and 1.71 GAA in 30 starts. SSK ESPORTS Arguably the biggest surprise of the Elite division this season, SSK ESPORTS has continued to shock the world throughout ECL 25. Six months ago, this organization was in the Pro Division and just fighting to make the playoffs, eventually making it in by 1 point on their final game of the regular season. Three months later, they made the Pro Finals as the #16 overall seed and won a relegation playoff over Falun Coal Miners to earn their place in Elite. Now fast forward another three months, and SSK ESPORTS are now in the Elite playoffs as a #7 seed, and have shown the community that they are a legitimate, palpable threat in this division. This team has a great mix of youth and experience. Starting out with their youth, @xcurhed has had an unforgettable rookie campaign. After transferring in Week 1 from Brynäs IF Esport in the Pro Division, Curhed posted 61 points in 30 games played with SSK ESPORTS, including an Elite division rookie record 36 goals. Both his point and goal totals rank in the top 10 in the entire division. Another impressive rookie has been @Adam2, who transferred with Curhed from Brynäs IF Esport and has been impressive on defense since joining SSK. Their starting goaltender @Brokenrice2000 also put together a respectable rookie campaign, starting all 30 games while posting a 79.86 SV%. In terms of their more experienced players, @zuppe_29 was tied with Curhed for the team-lead in points with 61, while also ranking Top 10 in the division in points and assists (39). Alongside him has been the team's captain and center @Rubituss, who put up an Elite career-high 50 points, 23 goals and 27 assists. @bystrom___ was also one of the best defensemen this season statistically, putting up a 47-point campaign (8 goals and 39 assists) with 91 takeaways. The most impressive part about this team is that they have also been able to earn wins against multiple fellow playoff teams. They split their series with Last Dance, Mythix, EXEN and Tohtorit, and even managed to sweep their series vs Mustaa Kultaa. This isn't a #7 seed that simply got in by beating up on the teams at the bottom of the table. They've proven that they can compete with, and even beat some of the better teams in the league. They took the third-most shots in the division at 493, averaged over 3 goals per game which ranked Top 5 in the division, and had the division's second-best power play at 30.95%. They even tend to limit mistakes and were one of the least-penalized teams in the league; all things that will be vital for them in this series. Prediction: Call me optimistic, but I actually think that this series has the potential to be the surprise of the Quarterfinals. I'm not calling for an upset necessarily, but both of these teams have been pleasant surprises in different ways. Mythix emerging as a legitimate title threat, and SSK ESPORTS going from a team viewed as a relegation candidate to earning its place in the playoffs and being in the hunt for the entire season. These two also split the regular season series, though Mythix was dominant in the second game, doubling SSK in both shots and time on attack in a 4-2 win. This series will come down to which team will be able to carry over its strengths from the regular season. Both sides are first-rate offensively, but Mythix brings the complete package with high-level defense, goaltending, and special teams. I don't think SSK is terribly far off, but it'd be slighting Mythix to say that they aren't a cut above after what we saw from them in the regular season, plus bowing out in the Quarterfinals would be an unmitigated disappointment for them after such a dominant campaign. It's a shame that only one of these teams will be able to earn their first-ever Elite semifinals birth, but that's the nature of the playoffs, and I think that Mythix should be seen as the favorite. Don't be surprised, though, if this series goes deeper than expected. @bMaJuH: Mythix in 6 @Mozjayh: Mythix in 5 (3) Parasite vs (6) Heimo Regular Season Series (April 14th): - Parasite 9-2 W - Heimo 3-2 W Parasite With the 30-game regular season officially behind them, Parasite's championship defense now officially begins with the postseason. Though their regular season performance wasn't at the same level of dominance as what we saw a season ago, Parasite still proved to be one of the division's best teams and a clear championship favorite. Their GF/GP (3.5) and GA/GP (2.13) were both 2nd in the Division, and they managed to register 583 shots this season, more than any other team in Elite. That's an average of 19.4 shots per game. The forward duo of @Beniittto and @Vattuyy were phenomenal as usual, as each of them eclipsed the 60-point and 30-goal mark, ranking Top 10 in the division in both categories. Their new addition in @xAaro89x saw his stats take a step back from him award-winning season with Mustaa Kultaa in the Winter, but his 50 points with 24 goals and 26 assists was still a solid contribution for this group. He seemed to really find his stride down the stretch of the season however, as he was able to earn 2+ points in seven of his final 10 games of the regular season. Look out for him to emerge for this team in their playoff run. @Teemuyy and @txmbo999 again formed one of the division's best defensive pairings, as both of them had 45+ points and 80+ takeaways this season. The two also combined for 57 blocked shots. Combine all of this with the steady and reliable goalie duo of @uhNikke and @FINSeRe, and it's easy to see why this team continues to find ways to rack up wins. Speaking of their goaltending duo, it'll be interesting to see how their time is split during the playoffs. FINSeRe started in 16 games and had an 80 SV% and a 2.13 GAA while facing 170 shots. Nikke, on the other hand, played in 14 games, posting a 79.4 SV% and 2.07 GAA while facing 141 shots. The only thing that really separates the two statistically is FINSeRe's three shutouts, and both of them are proven playoff starters. Last season, it was Nikke who started 10 of the 15 playoff games, including all six Finals games. This might be a bit harsh to say, but admittedly, I don't think that this group is as dominant as they were a season ago. Now, before you get upset and dismiss that statement, I want you to know that this isn't an indictment on them as a team. As odd as it is, Parasite is sort of a victim of having a near-perfect season in the Winter. They broke multiple ECL records, lost just one game in the regular season, and made quick work of their playoff opponents until the Finals, and even that series didn't go the full seven games. Replicating what they did in the Winter would've been borderline impossible, so seeing this team take a step back was expected, and they were still one of the best teams in just about every way possible. This team is skilled, experienced, and always seems to save their best hockey for the postseason, no matter who the competition is in front of them. A second-straight title will be tough, but they still have everything needed to make it happen. Heimo Coming into the season with one longest playoff droughts in the division, Heimo are back in the postseason after a strong end to the season, marking their first appearance since the ECL ’23 Spring season two years ago. This was also under the former JANO name and branding. If there is one word that I could use to describe this season, it would be "volatile". Heimo began the season looking like an offensive juggernaut. They averaged 4 goals per game during their first six games while winning five of those contests. They hit a bit of a slide after this, earning just 10 points in their 12 games since and sitting 12th in the standings with just 12 games to go. Heimo, however, ended the season with a 7-2-1 in their final 10 games, including wins over fellow playoff teams SSK ESPORTS and Tohtorit. To go along with their up-and-down results during the regular season, their stats also tell a tale of unpredictability. Heimo ended the regular season with the fourth-most goals scored while also allowing the third-most goals, as they both scored and allowed 3.13 goals per game. To their credit, they averaged just 2 goals for per game last season, so their offensive improvement was quite significant and is a big reason that they made it into the Top 8 this season. This team is one of the division's most balanced offensive attacks, as Heimo saw four skaters register 50+ points this season. The only other team in the division to do so was Mythix. @Eeemill_ led the way for this group with 57 points and 31 goals, both of which are career-highs for his time in the Elite division. Along with him was defenseman @KingOfApes_, who returned to the Elite division in arguably even better form than when we last saw him here in ECL 24. The former champion led all Elite defensemen with 15 goals and 223:23 of time with the puck. His 55 points were also the second-most of any defenseman in the division. Though his offensive numbers will get most of the shine, he was also stellar defensively this season, racking up 93 takeaways and 138 hits. This will be his first Elite playoff appearance since his time with Radical in the ECL '24 Winter season, where faced off against his former team in the Quarterfinals, just like he will again this season. Someone else to keep an eye on will be @xSnaipperi. The second-season skater switched positions with @SadaPoika after 12 games played. Following the swap, Snapperi scored 17 goals and 20 assists for 37 points in 18 games as LW. These two have been quite effective on the left side of the ice for Heimo, so don't be surprised if they make an impact in this series. Overall, Heimo's playoff success will come down to whether or not they can continue to utilize their strengths (generating offense and doing so with multiple different points of attack) while also cutting down on some of their weak points (own-zone play and penalties). If they can do this, they have the talent to compete and ended the regular season with positive momentum. They'll need to hope that this carries forward into the postseason after the two-week break. Prediction: Honestly, you could tell me that this series will end in 4 games or that it will end in 7 games and I'd probably be just as quick to believe either one. Heimo played some of their best hockey of the regular season when they needed to most, but they also got many of those wins against non-playoff teams. Parasite are the defending champions and have been nothing short of great, but they also haven't had the same feel of dominance that we've seen from them in the past. In my opinion, many of Parasite's strengths counteract the things that Heimo does well. They are also very familiar with arguably this team's most important player in KingOfApes and will gameplan to slow him down. Though I don't think that Parasite have played their best hockey yet this season, just 80% of their best is still a Top 4 team in the division, and I feel that this, in combination with Heimo's lack of consistency, will play to their advantage in this series. This shouldn't be a sweep, and I actually think that Heimo can make this a close series if everything is clicking, but Parasite hasn't given me a reason to go against them in a long time. I'm not going to do so now. @bMaJuH: Parasite in 6 @Mozjayh: Playing in series (4) EXEN vs (5) Mustaa Kultaa Regular Season Series (April 14th): - EXEN 2-0 W - EXEN 4-2 W EXEN After the first couple of weeks of the season, things were looking disastrous for this EXEN team. They were last in the standings and lost six of their first eight games of the season in regulation. This means that they earned just 4 points out of a possible 24 points during that stretch. Ever since that point, EXEN has gone 17-4-1, earning series sweeps against the likes of Tohtorit, Heimo, and their Quarterfinals opponent Mustaa Kultaa. The fact that they were able to recover from that and make the playoffs as a Top 4 seed is nothing short of impressive, and goes to show how outstanding this team was been over their final 22 games of the season. One of the biggest reasons for this team's turnaround was the addition of @kriketski17. Interestingly enough, Krike wasn't even on a roster to begin the season, and when he did join a roster, it was with GOONS, where he played for 12 games as a defenseman. Krike then transferred over to EXEN, ironically taking the place of Bobi, who transferred to Mustaa Kultaa after a slow start to the season. In 22 games with EXEN, Krike tallied 51 points, with 38 of them being goals. If you took away the four goals that he scored with GOONS, he would still rank second in the Elite division in that category. He also led the division in hits with 389 (252 of those coming with EXEN). Outside of Krike, they have also benefitted from @Pikkarii having a nice bounce back from last season. The former Elite champion saw his points jump from 38 in the Winter, to 55 in the Spring. His assist number also improved, going from 22 to 37. Both of these numbers are career-highs for his time in the Elite division. @h3rmu__ has also proven to be a very worthwhile addition to this team. The rookie LW earned 43 points with 23 goals and 20 assists in his first season of Elite action. This was also Hermu's first full ECL season since ECL 12, when he played with FILADELPHIA ACADEMY in the Lite Division. He played four games with Polski Boys in the Pro division as a reserve during ECL '23 Spring, a team that later went on to win the championship that season. @xDoumi and @wengerii will also be key factors in this series, as they were the most puck-dominant defense pairing in the division during the regular season. The two combined for 339:26 of time with the puck and were the only duo in the division to both rank Top 10 in that stat for defensemen. This group also has @Kaz_zu in net, who ranked Top 5 in the division in save percentage (81.36 %) and saves made (336) of goalies that played at least 10 games. Had this team not dropped so many points to begin the season, they likely could've been in contention for the #2 or #3 seed, but losses to multiple of the Top 3 teams hurt them. Luckily for their sake, they bounced back valiantly and come into the playoffs as one of the hottest teams in the division. They may not be perfect, but this team feels like a truly scary #4 seed. Mustaa Kultaa Mustaa Kultaa enters the postseason as arguably the coldest playoff team of the bunch. In a matter of just two weeks, last season's finalists went from being 1st in the standings and battling with Last Dance and Mythix for the top seed, to falling out of the Top 4 entirely. They went 4-7-1 in their final 12 games to end the season, and none of those wins were against playoff teams. This is a disastrous way to end your season, and I think that Mustaa Kultaa was probably happy to see the two-week break on the schedule before beginning their postseason run. Despite their rough run of form to end the season, though, this is still last season's finalists, and they return 5 of the 6 players who took arguably the best team in ECL history to six games in the Finals series. The team's long-standing captain and RW @Allupekkaz was phenomenal in his second Elite season, leading Mustaa Kultaa with 57 points and 29 goals. His opposite side winger @x-_-BoBi-_-x has also been impactful since joining this team midseason. After struggling with EXEN to begin the season, registering just 8 points in his 8 games played, Bobi came in with Mustaa Kultaa in Week 3 and immediately rediscovered his offensive touch, earning 35 points and 26 goals in 18 games played with his new club. This will be a fun story to watch, as I'm sure that he will have chip on his shoulder facing off against his old club. Luckily, both sides seemed to benefit from the move, so I doubt that there should be too many hard feelings from either side. Similarly to their opposition, this group also has a defense pairing that loves to have the puck on their sticks, as @Miseee96 and @NuariJamal combined for 320:26 of time with the puck. Mustaa Kultaa was also one of two teams that utilized a true split of the goaltending duties during the regular season. both @LatveX and @karlssonadam_ have proven to be phenomenal starters, especially in the playoffs. These are the last two winners of the Rookie of the Season award, and they're undoubtedly one of the best goalie duos that you'll find throughout the ECL (along with Parasite's duo of Finsere and UhNikke). Karlssonadam had the slight edge statistically, posting an 82.49 SV% and 2.21 GAA in 14 starts. LatVex was not far behind, though, as in 16 starts he earned a 79.79 sv% and 2.44 GAA. You genuinely can't go wrong with either guy. These are two of the best young goalies in all of Europe, and they even both represented their country in the recent SG World Cup (LatVex with Finland, Karlssonadam with Sweden). It'll just be interesting to see how this team decides to handle their playing time. Prediction: There are so many different storylines that you can sink your teeth into with this series. Not only is it a great 4v5 matchup, but it's also a matchup between two teams that ended the season going in completely opposite directions, and even features a player who transferred mid-season facing off against his old team. You also have two really talented lineups that both play exciting, but also different styles of hockey. Both of these teams have reason to feel both optimistic and pessimistic about their chances. For example, EXEN took the second-most PIMs in the league (95) while also having the worst penalty kill (56%), something that could haunt them against a Mustaa Kultaa team that are fast-paced and love to be deceptive with the puck. Not a great combination for success. On the other side, Mustaa Kultaa is the worst face-off team in the division at 42.7%, while EXEN is the second-best team in this category at 52.65%. This could be detrimental for Mustaa Kultaa, as EXEN would be plenty happy to just him them in their own zone and pepper them with shots, where they rank fourth in the division. This series will be fun to watch, and it wouldn't surprise me to see either team advance. Mustaa Kultaa's end to the season is undoubtedly concerning, and EXEN have looked like a different team since adding Krike to the mix. I could easily be proven wrong, but I'm going to roll with the team that played the best at the end of the season. Time will tell whether their contrasting forms will carry over. Regardless of who wins, I'd be surprised to see this series end in less than six games. @bMaJuH: EXEN in 7 @Mozjayh: EXEN in 6 Want to keep up with everything happening in the ECL this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Twitch, YouTube, and X.

SportsGamer Twitch and YouTube Channels Are Now Reactio Media As part of a broader effort to grow and diversify our channel, the SportsGamer Twitch and YouTube platforms are now operating under the name Reactio Media. What’s changing? In short — just the name. All of the broadcasts, tournaments, and content you’ve come to expect from SportsGamer will continue as before. SportsGamer remains an active and central part of the channel’s programming. The new identity simply creates space for additional creators and content formats to emerge alongside our core esports coverage. While this new content may not always be tied directly to SportsGamer, the goal is to strengthen the entire platform — expanding reach, building a wider audience, and ultimately unlocking more opportunities for everyone involved. This shift also supports our ability to attract sponsorships and partnerships, which in turn helps us continue improving SportsGamer’s own content and production value. “How does this change things for me as a SportsGamer member?” It doesn’t — aside from giving you the chance to tune in to something different when there’s no SportsGamer content live. Everything you care about is still here. So when you see Reactio Media live on Twitch or YouTube — remember, it’s still us. Come say hi, join the stream, and be part of what’s next. 🎮 Up next on the channel: the ECL ’25: Spring Elite Quarterfinals, starting on Monday live at twitch.tv/ReactioMedia!   Follow SportsGamer on all platforms: 💬 Discord:  SportsGamer.gg/Discord  📘 Facebook: @SportsGamerGG 📸 Instagram: @SportsGamerGG 📺 Kick: @SportsGamerGG 🎵 TikTok: @SportsGamerGG 🧵 Threads: @SportsGamerGG 🎥 Twitch: @ReactioMedia 🐦 Twitter (X): @SportsGamerGG ▶️ YouTube: @ReactioMedia

The time has come – the most thrilling esports hockey competition in Europe is back! 🏒🔥 ECL '25: Spring is officially here, and we’re in for another action-packed season. Whether you're a diehard fan eagerly awaiting the action or a newcomer curious about the excitement, now's the perfect time to get involved. Fire up those systems because the competition is about to reach new heights! 🎮🚨 In this preview, we’ll dive into a few teams and their key players taking center stage in the fierce battle for supremacy in the prestigious ECL. From the experienced veterans to the rising stars looking to make their mark, this season promises to be full of high-stakes matchups and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned as we explore what makes this spring’s ECL so special and what fans can expect as the season unfolds! 🌟🏆 Almost Famous It wasn’t many seasons ago that Almost Famous won the Pro title, with a few different players of course, nonetheless this is a new team with new expectations. @Ikavalko headlines this roster as he usually does, this veteran player takes his age-old team into ECL once again and is now looking to win the Pro title once again, with a revamped squad. Player to watch: @kkostiiii 👀 Season Prediction: Title Contenders 🏆 Carnages With newcomers from qualifiers it’s quite hard to give a good read or estimate, but plowing through the qualifiers in stage 1 and gaining the Pro spot as group winners surely made a statement for other teams in the Pro division. Captain @Fin_S1su has assembled a worthy team for the Pro division that will be fighting for a playoff spot this year and beyond, with great goaltending from their leader and solid offense we might just see that happen. Player to watch: @Bugimir🧤 Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs 📈 Chiubibigle After a few rough seasons in the Pro division (former Devilz), this team continues to stay alive and keep their spot in the second highest division, now after qualifiers they claim their spot once again in Pro, with their main goal to not be playing qualifiers at the end of the season. However, with a completely new look this season, Devilz have gotten some experience in the form of @Haldeem & @Original-SnuS, if the whole team can find some chemistry to begin the season, Devilz might just find them pushing for a playoff spot. Player to watch: @I_Alex28_I 🎯 Season Prediction: Relegation 📉 Falun Coal Miners After a disappointing season in Elite, they had another chance at redemption in the Elite qualifiers but didn’t quite pull through, another top performance is highly likely in the upcoming Pro division for the experienced Swedish team. With a lot of experience comes different ways to play the game, and Falun Coal Miners surely knows how to do that at the Pro level, if they can put up a similar effort as their last Pro season they surely are a favourite. Player to watch: @STRANDMANNEN11 💪 Season Prediction: Title Contender 🏆 F U R Y Fury comes in with one of the most experienced of new teams in Pro. Players from different teams come together and take a Pro spot and immediately become favourites to go far in the playoffs. @LE1PAKONE nordzman headlines the newly founded team and is looking to pave his way back to the Elite division, now as a forward Nordzman has to make it work with some new teammates and big expectations on his shoulder. Player to watch: @Konsuk05 🎮 Season Prediction: 2nd round of playoffs 🚀 Golden Buffalos This one sure is an interesting one, as everyone watches and wonders what this team has done, and is going to do we’ll give a fair evaluation at the mid-season report when it’s clear who plays at what position, with new signings like @Patzlaf , @FlyerKungen & @Eken45jr who have played in Elite for their entire careers, we’ve never seen anything similar in the Pro division, so buckle up and follow this team closely this season. Player to watch: @xSauron_96 👑 Season Prediction: 2nd round of playoffs 🔥 Golden Sticks After a strong playoff performance in ECL 24, the team faced a bit of a setback during the offseason, losing several key players to transfers and other commitments. Despite these challenges, they narrowly avoided relegation to the Pro qualifiers, managing to stay in their current league by the slimmest of margins. With a renewed focus and a few strategic additions to the roster, the team is now looking to bounce back and make a stronger push this season, aiming to build on their playoff experience and overcome the difficulties they faced in the past. Player to watch: @peppenntur 🧊 Season Prediction: Relegation 🚨 HC Lugano eSport After a solid regular season for Lugano, their playoff hopes got squashed by eventual semifinalists and qualifier winners Nova, and are now looking for redemption. This season Lugano needs to prove that last season's regular season finish wasn’t a fluke, and that this is their true level. Now with some more experience under their belt, Lugano are looking to build something great and go deep in the playoffs with the same roster from last season. Player to watch: @CMB-wf- 🧱 Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs 🎯 Kertoimia Vastaan After a difficult Pro qualifier, Kertoimia Vastaan made it to Pro and now want to cement themselves as a playoff team immediately, that’s going to be tough with some new teams and a lot of dark horses. One who can stand out for them this season is @HopeaKypara99, he has that Pro experience and he knows what it takes to succeed at this level. If Kertoimia Vastaan can get a hot start, they can fight for a playoff spot. Player to watch: @HopeaKypara99 🎯 Season Prediction: Relegation 📉 Nurnberg IceTigers eSport Landing in Pro for the season and not seeing a big change from last season for the German team might just be what they need, more time to get their ducks in a row and start progressing as a team. Now they need that little bit of a push to be more competitive, and @Flo_goes_grazy flgr93 has that needed flair any team needs to be a good team in Pro, but can the rest of the team keep up? Player to watch: @Flo_goes_grazy flgr93 ⚡ Season Prediction: No-man's land 🗺️ Otukset Always a team that competes well in the Pro division, again quite close as they made the Elite qualifiers, but they were outclassed and sent packing. Now a new season in Pro and their goal has to be a deep playoff run, a very skilled team with a lot of games played together under their belt, and once again a heavy favourite to win it. Player to watch: @Mikka mikkaah 🎯 Season Prediction: 2nd round of playoffs 🚀 REALISTIC A team that played well in FCL, and took a Pro spot and is eager to show that this is where they belong, now Realistic has everything going for them and need to capitalize on that. @N44TTI_16 naatti__ joins Realistic after a few seasons in Elite with good numbers, and is going to be one of many who might be after the top scorers position in Pro this season, if his team can keep with him, they might just find themselves in a good position at the end of the season. Player to watch: @N44TTI_16 naatti__ 🏹 Season Prediction: 2nd round of playoffs 🔥 Blegi An experienced squad who some have played in the highest level of ECL, now they begin their climb back up with a new squad, with uncertainty in the squad who plays yet it will be interesting to see who starts when the season starts. After an interesting FCL campaign, Blegi sure has a lot of doubters, and wants to prove them wrong, recent Elite standout @koleslaav_ who captains Blegi surely wants to win more games than most now has something to prove once again. Player to watch: @ItzPoro 🎮 Season Prediction: No-man's land 🌫️ Pivto4ka Another newly founded team in Pro with some good experience, this Russian side is spearheaded by veteran @NyambI4. Advancing through the qualifiers and eventually making it, this team had its issues with finding chemistry early on, it’ll be an interesting season for them if they keep having the same issues. Player to watch: @muzhichok39 xbelzzyy 🧩 Season Prediction: No-man’s land 🚧 Sunne IK esport The newly crowned SCL champions are headed to the Pro division! Has a nice ring to it, right? Or maybe ECL 25 Winter champions, either way this team has accumulated a ton of experience and trophies on the way, and now they’re looking for one more. After a few seasons in ECL, Sunne IK really found their groove and leading the way is @forreberra, the talented winger really can put on a show, so Pro defenseman, be ready. Player to watch: @benjamint737 ✨ Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs 💪 Vizio A mainstay now in Pro for a few seasons, this Finnish side seem to have found that groove that it takes to play in the Pro division. Now is the time to build on their upwards trajectory, after a tough ending to the season last ECL where they were held off of making the playoffs in the last regular season game. The team gets some well needed boosts this season, notably experienced defenseman @SirLateksi who has built a resume worthwhile, now helping Vizio hopefully to the playoffs. Player to watch: @Artuzio 🛡️ Season Prediction: 1st round of playoffs ⚔️ ECL Pro Format: 2 Groups - 33 Teams Team license required: Yes Player license required: Yes Gamedays: Mon, Tue & Thu Regular season starts: 7.4 Transfer deadline: 25.4 23:59 CEST ⚠️ Regular season ends: 8.5 Playoffs (BO7) Round of 16: Monday 26.5 Tuesday 27.5 Thursday 29.5 Quarterfinals: Monday 2.6 Tuesday 3.6 Thursday 5.6 Semifinals: Monday 9.6 Tuesday 10.6 Thursday 12.6 Finals: 16.6- 17.6* Promotion & Relegation games are to be played shortly after the season, however dates are flexible. * Dates are subject to change as broadcast productions are confirmed. We would recommend everyone to go through the ECL Essentials - A Guide to the ECL. If you face any problems, feel free to contact us through the Support Tool. Welcome to the season. Let the games begin!

ECL '25: Spring - Lite | Playoffs: Round 2 Preview - Epic Battles and Underdog Dreams The ECL '25: Spring - Lite Playoffs are in full swing, and the second round is delivering the high-stakes, heart-pounding eHockey action fans live for. Despite the challenges of limited writers causing delayed previews, the virtual ice is ablaze with thrilling plays, underdog heroics, and tactical showdowns. With the quarterfinals underway, the top seeds are fighting to maintain their dominance, while lower seeds are seizing their moment to shock the league. From veteran-led comebacks to star-studded rosters asserting their will, this round has it all. Fire up your consoles and dive into our comprehensive preview of the four second-round matchups, complete with key players, tactical breakdowns, and bold predictions from the community’s top analysts. The race to the semifinals is on, and the path to Lite division glory is heating up! Kikkakirja (1) vs. Hokurit (28) Series Status: Kikkakirja leads 2-1 as of June 3, 2025 One of the most captivating matchups in the ECL Lite second round pits the top-seeded Kikkakirja against the 28th-seeded Hokurit, a team that’s defied the odds to reach this stage. Kikkakirja, a powerhouse aiming for a return to the Pro division, survived a shocking seven-game scare against the last-seeded Hockeyholics in the first round. Meanwhile, Hokurit pulled off a stunning upset against the talented Kokemus Puuttuu, showcasing their veteran savvy and resilience. With Kikkakirja holding a 2-1 series lead, this matchup promises a thrilling clash of styles that could go down to the wire. Kikkakirja: Overcoming the First Hurdle Kikkakirja entered the playoffs as the team to beat, boasting a high-octane offense and a regular-season record that underscored their dominance in the Lite division. However, their first-round battle against Hockeyholics exposed unexpected vulnerabilities, as the underdogs pushed them to a full seven games. Led by captain @PyroNiko, a former Pro standout known for his playmaking and clutch scoring, Kikkakirja leaned on their depth to escape the upset bid. @j1mppa_, a versatile forward, has been a key contributor, averaging over a point per game in the playoffs and providing secondary scoring. With a 2-1 lead over Hokurit, Kikkakirja is in the driver’s seat, but roster availability issues and defensive inconsistencies could give Hokurit an opening. If @PyroNiko and @j1mppa_ can lead the way, Kikkakirja’s path to the semifinals—and a potential Pro division return—remains within reach. Hokurit: The Upset Architects Hokurit’s improbable run to the second round has turned heads across the Lite division. After a glorious comeback season, they stunned Kokemus Puuttuu in a 4-2 series win, thanks to a timely roster shakeup that saw @MCH_98 slot into the lineup and @jondeezz unleash his veteran trickery. @MCH_98, a dynamic two-way player, has been a revelation, contributing key goals and defensive stability. Hokurit’s 4-3 victory in game one against Kikkakirja showed they’re not intimidated by the top seed, but trailing 2-1, they’ll need to dig deep to keep their Cinderella story alive. Hokurit’s strength lies in their opportunistic play and goaltending, which has kept them in games against superior opponents. However, roster issues could hinder their consistency against Kikkakirja’s relentless attack. Key Matchups Offensive Depth vs. Counterattacking Prowess: Kikkakirja’s attack, led by @PyroNiko and @j1mppa_, thrives on quick transitions and power-play efficiency. Hokurit counters with a gritty, counterattacking style, with @MCH_98 and @Jondeezz capitalizing on mistakes. The team that controls the pace will have the edge. Goaltending Duel: Kikkakirja’s goaltender was tested against Hockeyholics but made clutch saves. Hokurit’s netminder, meanwhile, stole games against Kokemus Puuttuu. The goaltender who stands tallest in tight moments will be critical. Special Teams: Kikkakirja’s power play is a lethal weapon, but Hokurit’s penalty kill has been effective. Discipline will be key to avoiding costly penalties. Players to Watch Kikkakirja: @j1mppa_ Hokurit: @MCH_98 Tactical Breakdown Kikkakirja will aim to dictate the tempo with their high-flying offense, using @PyroNiko and @j1mppa_ to create scoring chances in transition. Their power play is a major weapon that could exploit Hokurit’s penalties. Hokurit, however, will look to slow the game down, clogging the neutral zone and relying on @MCH_98 and @Jondeezz for counterattacks. Their penalty kill must be sharp to neutralize Kikkakirja’s man advantage. The team that adapts better to the other’s game plan will take control of this series. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Kikkakirja in 5 (4-1). AI: Hokurit in 7 (4-3). Sticks Misfits (2) vs. Carolus Icemen (25) Series Status: Six Sticks Misfits lead 3-1 as of June 3, 2025 The second-seeded Six Sticks Misfits are firmly in control with a 3-1 series lead over the 25th-seeded Carolus Icemen, but this matchup is far from decided. The Misfits dominated their first-round matchup against Eisbaeren Lauf Gaming, while the Icemen pulled off a stunning upset against Powerhouse Hockey. The Icemen’s 5-2 win in game two shows they can compete with the best, but they’ll need a miracle to overcome the Misfits’ stacked roster. This series pits a powerhouse against an underdog with nothing to lose. Six Sticks Misfits: A Dominant Force Six Sticks Misfits entered the playoffs as a juggernaut, having cruised through the regular season with their balanced attack and veteran leadership. Their first-round sweep of Eisbaeren Lauf Gaming was a statement, as even Eisbaeren’s star @Kenu couldn’t slow them down. Leading the charge is @ROUHEEE, a postseason standout with 11 goals in eight games. The Misfits’ roster is loaded with experience, making them a favorite to go deep in the playoffs. Their relentless forecheck and lethal power play have overwhelmed opponents, but their game two loss shows they’re not invincible. With a 3-1 lead, the Misfits are poised to advance, but they must stay focused to avoid letting the Icemen back into the series. Carolus Icemen: Defying the Odds Carolus Icemen have already made waves by upsetting Powerhouse Hockey in five games in the first round. Led by the dynamic @Bror1326, who carried the team with his offensive flair, the Icemen showed they can compete with top teams. Their 5-2 victory in game two against the Misfits proved they’re not intimidated, but trailing 3-1, they face an uphill battle. @Tlindgren96s goaltending was a difference-maker in the first round, and his performance will be critical if the Icemen hope to stage a comeback. The Icemen’s strength lies in their ability to capitalize on mistakes and play a gritty, team-oriented game. If @Bror1326 can continue his heroics, they could make this series interesting. Key Matchups Offensive Depth vs. Clutch Scoring: The Misfits’ balanced attack, led by @ROUHEEE, overwhelms with depth and pressure. The Icemen rely on @Bror1326’s clutch scoring to keep them in games. The team that converts their chances more efficiently will control the series. Goaltending Battle: The Misfits’ goaltender has been steady, allowing their offense to shine. @Tlindgren96 for the Icemen has the potential to steal games, as seen in their upset of Powerhouse. The netminder who makes the big saves will be pivotal. Special Teams: The Misfits’ power play is a major weapon, but the Icemen’s penalty kill was effective against Powerhouse. Discipline will be key for the Icemen to stay in the series. Players to Watch Six Sticks Misfits: @ROUHEEE Carolus Icemen: @Bror1326 Tactical Breakdown The Misfits will look to impose their high-tempo, forechecking style, using @ROUHEEE’s scoring touch to create opportunities. Their power play is a constant threat. The Icemen will aim to keep games low-scoring, relying on @Bror1326's clutch play and @Tlindgren96’s goaltending to steal games. Their ability to capitalize on counterattacks and stay disciplined on special teams will be critical. The team that controls the pace and avoids mistakes will advance. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Misfits in 5 (4-1). AI: Misfits in 6 (4-2). Deadly Phantoms (7) vs. Silver Sword Griffins (13) Series Status: Silver Sword Griffins lead 2-0 as of June 3, 2025 The clash between the seventh-seeded Deadly Phantoms and the 13th-seeded Silver Sword Griffins is a throwback to ECL’s storied rivalries, with both teams boasting deep roots in the competitive scene. The Griffins’ commanding 2-0 lead has put the Phantoms on the ropes, but this series promises tight games and hard-fought battles. Both teams advanced comfortably from their first-round matchups, setting the stage for a gritty showdown that’s perfect for fans of close, physical eHockey. Deadly Phantoms: Fighting for Redemption The Deadly Phantoms are a franchise with a storied history, having competed across multiple ECL divisions. Now in Lite, they’re determined to return to the Pro division. Their first-round win was a statement, as they dispatched their opponent with ease. Captain @CashAllGreen has been a standout, racking up 39 points (24 goals, 15 assists) in 12 regular-season games and continuing his strong play in the playoffs. @CCBow-501, a rising star, has added secondary scoring and defensive stability. Trailing 2-0, the Phantoms need a team-wide effort to turn the series around. The Phantoms’ strength lies in their balanced roster, but their defensive consistency will be tested against the Griffins’ potent attack. Silver Sword Griffins: The Latvian Surge Hailing primarily from Latvia, the Silver Sword Griffins entered the playoffs as a dangerous underdog and proved their mettle by defeating TikiTaka in five games in the first round. Led by captain @martinssilins, the Griffins played with confidence and precision. @LATMinx, a dynamic forward, has been a postseason revelation, contributing key goals and playmaking. Their 2-0 series lead over the Phantoms shows they’re ready for a tougher challenge, but they’ll need to maintain their defensive structure to close it out. The Griffins’ goaltending has been a key factor, with their netminder making timely saves to keep games close. Key Matchups Offensive Balance vs. Defensive Stability: The Phantoms’ attack, led by @cashallgreen and @CCBow-501, is versatile, but the Griffins’ defense, anchored by @kriteris, has been solid. The team that controls the slot will have the upper hand. Goaltending Edge: The Griffins’ goaltender has been a difference-maker, while the Phantoms’ netminder has faced pressure but held firm. The goaltending duel will be critical in tight games. Special Teams: The Phantoms’ power play is a threat, but the Griffins’ penalty kill has been effective. Discipline will be key for both teams. Players to Watch Deadly Phantoms: @RPH_31 Silver Sword Griffins: @LATMinx Tactical Breakdown The Phantoms will aim to push the pace, using @CashAllGreen and @CCBow-501 to create opportunities in transition. Their power play is a weapon that could exploit penalties. The Griffins prefer a structured, defensive game, relying on @LATMinx’s counterattacks and a strong penalty kill. @martinssilins’s two-way play will be critical in neutralizing the Phantoms’ top line. The team that wins the special teams battle and controls the neutral zone will advance. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Griffins in 5 (4-1). AI: Phantoms in 7 (4-3). Lemmenvelhot (10) vs. Rusty X (11) Series Status: Tied 2-0 as of June 3, 2025 The matchup between the 10th-seeded Lemmenvelhot and the 11th-seeded Rusty X is a classic Lite division showdown, with both teams brimming with talent and hunger. Both squads dominated their first-round opponents, showcasing their offensive firepower and playoff readiness. As they square off in the second round, this series promises to be a high-octane battle where goaltending and efficiency in front of the net will decide the winner. Lemmenvelhot: Proving Their Worth Lemmenvelhot narrowly missed a Pro division spot in the preseason qualifiers, raising questions about their readiness. Their dominant first-round performance silenced doubters, as they dispatched their opponent with ease. @Jmaisema has been a postseason standout, racking up 19 points (12 goals, 7 assists), while @xMossee has provided secondary scoring and defensive stability. Lemmenvelhot’s aggressive forecheck and offensive depth make them a dangerous team, but they’ll need to shore up their defense against Rusty X’s star-studded attack. Rusty X: A Record-Breaking Pace Rusty X has been a revelation, with @Nester4343 and @SPB_AlexZver_22(thealexera) averaging a staggering three points per game in the playoffs. Their first-round dismantling of Saucer Hockey showcased their offensive firepower and special teams dominance. If they maintain that pace, they could set a postseason record. Rusty X’s ability to score in bunches and their effective power play make them a formidable opponent, but their defense will be tested against Lemmenvelhot’s relentless attack. Key Matchups Star Power vs. Team Depth: @Jmaisema and @Tptk00 give Lemmenvelhot a potent attack & goalie, but Rusty X’s @Nester4343 and @SPB_AlexZver_22(thealexera) provide a two-pronged threat. The team with better secondary scoring will have the edge. Goaltending Duel: Both goaltenders performed well in the first round, but Rusty X’s netminder has been stingy. The goaltender who makes the big saves will be the difference. Special Teams: Rusty X’s power play was lethal against Saucer Hockey, while Lemmenvelhot’s aggressive forecheck creates shorthanded chances. Special teams will be critical. Players to Watch Lemmenvelhot: @Tptk00 Rusty X: @Nester4343 Lemmenvelhot will rely on their aggressive forecheck and @Jmaisema’s scoring to pressure Rusty X’s defense. Their power play is opportunistic, but they’ll need to stay disciplined to avoid Rusty X’s lethal man advantage. Rusty X will look to stretch the ice with quick transitions, leveraging @Nester4343 and @SPB_AlexZver_22's (thealexera) speed. Their penalty kill must be sharp to counter Lemmenvelhot’s aggressive play. The team that executes with precision will advance. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Rusty X in 6 (4-2). AI: Rusty X in 7 (4-3). Final Thoughts The ECL '25: Spring - Lite Playoffs second round is a showcase of everything fans love about competitive eHockey: high-scoring battles, upset potential, and tactical brilliance. Kikkakirja’s redemption quest faces Hokurit’s Cinderella story. Six Sticks Misfits’ dominance is tested by Carolus Icemen’s grit. Deadly Phantoms and Silver Sword Griffins revive a historic rivalry, while Lemmenvelhot and Rusty X promise a high-octane showdown. With every series poised to deliver drama, the race to the semifinals is heating up. Stay tuned for more thrilling action as these teams battle for Lite division supremacy!

ECL '25: Lite Spring Playoffs Ignite with Thrilling First-Round Matchups *this article was written as of May 21st Playoffs (BO7) Round of 32: Monday 26.5 Tuesday 27.5 Wednesday 28.5 Round of 16: Sunday 1.6 Tuesday 3.6 Wednesday 4.6 Quarterfinals: Sunday 8.6 Tuesday 10.6 Wednesday 11.6 Semifinals: Sunday 15.6 Tuesday 17.6 Wednesday 18.6 Finals: 23.6- 24.6* * Dates are subject to change as broadcast productions are confirmed. Kikkakirja (1) VS Hockeyholics (32) The ECL '25: Winter Lite playoffs are here, and all eyes are on a thrilling matchup between top-seeded Kikkakirja and the gritty Hockeyholics! Kikkakirja, a powerhouse relegated to the Lite division after a tough Pro qualifier campaign, enters with home-ice advantage and a commanding regular-season performance. They already bested Hockeyholics twice this season (4-3W, 7-4W), showcasing their offensive prowess with explosive plays and sharp teamwork. Led by the dynamic @PyroNiko, a former Pro standout who returned from a brief hiatus to captain this squad, Kikkakirja is hungry to dominate the Lite division and secure a triumphant return to Pro. Their high-octane style promises a barrage of goals, making them the team to beat. Hockeyholics, hailing from Central Europe, clawed their way into the playoffs despite a regular season marred by costly mistakes and defensive lapses. Their resilience, however, has earned them a shot at redemption. If they can shore up their own zone and find consistency, they have the potential to turn this series into a nail-biter. The key lies with @Hasek-39--, an Austrian veteran with Pro playoff experience, whose leadership and clutch performances could spark an upset. His ability to rally his team through tight games will be crucial if Hockeyholics hope to challenge Kikkakirja’s dominance. This series could unfold in two ways: Kikkakirja might steamroll to a quick 4-0 sweep, leveraging their offensive depth, or Hockeyholics could minimize errors, keep games close, and stretch the series into a dogfight. Fans are in for a treat either way, as both teams bring passion and flair to the virtual ice. Players To Watch: Kikkakirja: @PyroNiko A returning star aiming to lead his team to Lite glory. Hockeyholics: @Hasek-39-- The veteran whose experience could tilt the series. Series Prediction: Hifk_fani: Kikkakirja in 5 (4-1). AI Kikkakirja in 4 (4-0). Silver Sword Griffins (13) VS TikiTaka (20) The puck drops today as the ECL '25: Spring playoffs ignite with a thrilling first-round clash between the Silver Sword Griffins and TikiTaka! This matchup promises high-octane action, pitting the Griffins’ slick offensive prowess against TikiTaka’s gritty determination. Fans, buckle up, this series is set to deliver! The Silver Sword Griffins, a near-full Latvian squad, have dazzled all season with their mesmerizing play in the offensive zone. Their deft stickhandling and clever tactics left opponents scrambling, a reputation cemented after Latvia's standout World Cup performance. The dynamic duo of @LATMinx and @CapinsH-LV has been unstoppable, carrying the Griffins to a strong regular-season finish. Now, they’re poised to translate that momentum into playoff success. With their knack for exploiting defensive gaps, the Griffins are eyeing TikiTaka’s shaky backline as their ticket to the next round. Expect their high-flying offense to test TikiTaka’s resolve early and often. TikiTaka, meanwhile, has endured a rocky season, struggling to keep pucks out of their net. Their mid-season acquisition of veteran @snippystatue brings playoff experience, but his role remains uncertain. Captain @TansKungen has been the team’s heartbeat, setting a high standard and urging his squad to elevate their game. However, the gamble on rookie goalie @K3mpny has backfired, with defensive lapses plaguing the team. In the playoffs, TikiTaka will lean on their offensive flair and puck-possession skills to outlast the Griffins’ aggressive counters. This series hinges on execution. The Griffins’ precision attacks will challenge TikiTaka’s porous defense, while TikiTaka must capitalize on their offensive chances to stay alive. The team that best neutralizes their opponent’s counterattacks will emerge victorious. Players To Watch: Silver Sword Griffins: @kriteris A defenseman who can steer the game on both sides of the puck. TikiTaka: @TansKungen The leader needs to get his team going to have a chance. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Griffins in 6 (4-2). AI: Griffins in 5 (4-1)- Seinäjoki Noms (4) VS HC Last Resort (29) The 1st round of the ECL Lite playoffs is here once again, and now we’re highlighting the series between the Seinäjoki Noms and Last Resort, which is shaping up to be a nail-biter! These two teams already traded blows in the regular season, where the lower-seeded Last Resort snagged five out of six possible points (3-1 W, 2-3 OTW), giving the Noms a score to settle. This series promises a tightly contested battle that fans won’t want to miss. Get ready for a showdown packed with intensity and drama! The Seinäjoki Noms, a cohesive Finnish squad, earned their well-deserved fourth seed after battling heavyweights like Powerhouse Hockey and Lemmenvelhot for their group’s top spot. Led by the ever-loyal @Simbee434, a cornerstone of the franchise who’s never donned another jersey, the Noms are hungry to prove themselves in the playoffs. Their disciplined teamwork and relentless drive make them a formidable force, but they’ll need to outmaneuver a Last Resort team that knows their playbook inside out. The Noms’ success hinges on their ability to convert scoring chances and neutralize Last Resort’s key threats. Last Resort, despite a lackluster regular season, enters the playoffs with confidence, having already bested the Noms twice. They may not face the steepest climb among lower seeds, but they’re not underestimating their opponents. Anchored by @Tzon93, a former Elite and Pro player who racked up an impressive 52 points (33+19) in the Lite division, and supported by @eissi83, a battle-tested skater with experience in high-stakes games, Last Resort has the firepower to go toe-to-toe with the Noms. Their playoff pedigree could be the edge they need. This series will come down to the wire. Special teams and clutch scoring will decide the victor, with experience clashing against unity. Who will prevail? Players To Watch: Seinäjoki Noms: @Simbee434 His team needs him now more than ever. HC Last Resort: @Tzon93 The veteran forward has a knack for scoring. Series Prediction: Hifk_fani: Last Resort in 5 (4-1). AI: Seinäjoki Noms in 6 (4-2). Kokemus Puuttuu (5) VS Hokurit (28) Another tight series that is a must watch by SportsGamer fans, both teams have good blend of experience and talent, and now face each other in a round 1 matchup, after battling each other in the regular season and Kokemus Puuttuu winning both games, they now have the upper hand in this series. This electrifying matchup blends seasoned experience with explosive talent, promising a thrilling best-of-seven series. Hokurit, storming back into the Lite division, are determined to prove they’re elite contenders. Led by the clutch-scoring dynamo @Jondeezz, who racked up 27 goals and 18 assists this season, Hokurit has the offensive spark to turn games around. If @Jondeezz can ignite in high-pressure moments, Hokurit could pull off a stunning upset. Their renowned defensive grit, a hallmark of their past success, will be vital in shutting down Kokemus Puuttuu’s high-powered attack. Facing a team with Elite experience in the Lite division is no small challenge, but Hokurit has the worst defense of all the teams in the playoffs at GA/GP at 4.39; if they keep this up it’ll be a short series. Kokemus Puuttuu, a squad with Pro division aspirations, is primed to make a statement. Their regular-season sweep over Hokurit bolsters their confidence. At the forefront is @TeMeX a do-it-all leader who joined after TikiTalk’s collapse and has shone brightly in the Lite division. With 51 points (26+25), @TeMeX drives the team’s relentless offense. Kokemus Puuttuu’s ability to dictate tempo and capitalize on scoring chances makes them a formidable foe. This series promises tight, edge-of-your-seat games. Kokemus Puuttuu’s offensive depth will test Hokurit’s shaky defence, we’re bound to see a thrilling series. If Hokurit can tighten up defensively, this series could go either way. Players To Watch: Kokemus Puuttuu: @EPIZOR(Meemi_) A beast between the pipes, 2 shutouts is my guess. Hokurit: @Jondeezz The veteran needs to take his team on his back once again. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Kokemus Puuttuu in 5 (4-1). AI: Kokemus Puuttuu in 5 (4-1) (12) Jurricanes VS Wida (21) With a series like this, we’re bound to get some entertaining ehockey, both teams excel in the offensive zone, and face each other in a best-of-seven series. We get to see a nailbiter once more, and a series that will surely be close. Wida enters the playoffs after a somewhat lackluster regular season, falling short of expectations following their near-miss in the Pro qualifiers. The Finnish side now faces pressure to prove their worth. Leading the charge is @nikitikitin, a standout in the Lite division with an impressive 72 points (39+33) this season. After last year’s playoff stumble, @nikitikitin is hungry to show that setback was a fluke. Wida’s potent powerplay, clicking at an impressive 31.91%, gives them a clear edge. If they capitalize on special teams and maintain their offensive flair, they could overpower their opponents and advance deeper into the postseason. Jurricanes, also hailing from Finland, are making their playoff debut after a solid Lite division campaign last season. While their special teams have been a weak link, the playoffs offer a fresh start to showcase their potential. Anchoring the team is goaltender @Joniner, a reliable netminder with Pro experience who gives Jurricanes a steady presence between the pipes. If their offense, often likened to a diesel engine, can find its rhythm early, Jurricanes could pose a serious threat. Their ability to ignite their attack and shore up special teams will be critical against Wida’s relentless pressure. This series is a true toss-up, with both teams lacking a standout edge in any single category. Wida’s superior powerplay could tip the scales, but if Jurricanes find their groove and @joniner stands tall, they could steal the series. The team that seizes key moments and executes efficiently will move on. Players To Watch: Jurricanes: @VesKuLiNe An experienced leader who has the talent to take them far. Wida: @nikitikitin An offensive demon who can light up any team. Series Prediction Hifk_fani: Wida in 7 (4-3). AI: Wida in 6 (4-2). Powerhouse Hockey (8) VS Carolus Icemen (25) The ECL '25: Spring playoffs are igniting, and the first-round clash between Powerhouse Hockey and Carolus Icemen is shaping up to be a must-watch spectacle! Both teams thrive on offensive firepower, but Powerhouse’s superior defensive play gives them a clear edge in this best-of-seven series. Expect dazzling highlight-reel goals and relentless offensive zone pressure from both sides, with this matchup poised to deliver thrilling eHockey action from puck drop. Carolus Icemen, hailing from Sweden, boast an impressive 3.5 goals-for per game, a stat that could have landed them in the regular season’s top four. However, their shaky defense has left them as the 25th seed, facing a steep uphill battle in the playoffs. Leading the charge is @Bror1326, a seasoned forward with experience in higher divisions. His 56 points (27+29), second on the team, make him the Icemen’s linchpin. For Carolus to have a shot at stealing a game or two, @Bror1326 must elevate his play and inspire a defensive turnaround, but the road to an upset looks daunting against Powerhouse’s well-rounded game. Powerhouse Hockey enters the playoffs with the X-factor to make a deep run and secure a Pro division spot next season. Their regular-season dominance showcased a lethal blend of offense, defense, and above-average special teams, making them a formidable force in the Lite division. Captain @Burritokuningas, with 54 points (21+33), is the heart and soul of the team, known for carrying his squad in clutch moments. Powerhouse’s 200-foot game—combining relentless forechecking, solid defense, and opportunistic scoring—makes them a nightmare matchup. They’re primed to fire on all cylinders. This series could swing between a tight contest and a Powerhouse blowout. While Carolus Icemen’s grit and offensive spark might snag a game, Powerhouse’s balanced attack and defensive edge should propel them forward. The team that controls the tempo and capitalizes on mistakes will prevail. Players To Watch: Powerhouse Hockey: @Eiteam Can rise up and be a challenge for the Swedes. Carolus Icemen: @Tlindgren96 If he can steal games, they have a shot. Series Prediction: Hifk_fani: Powerhouse in 5 (4-1). AI: Powerhouse in 4 (4-0). Follow the Playoff streams: Please post dates, times, and links for streams in the comments of this news story and on social media, to help everyone find your team streams.

We have crowned another Champion as Silver Sword Griffins took home the title in the Core division after a thrilling seven-game series against KOST Wolves. After a dominant regular season, which saw SSG heading into the playoffs as the number one seed, they continued to show their excellence throughout the playoffs. Huge congratulations to the Latvian side for the Championship and congratulations as well to KOST Wolves and Rusty X for their second and third-place finishes! The Silver Sword Griffins have been around since the very first ECL tournament and are known to be the Latvian powerhouse. With some of their current players having played in some of those very first tournaments they truly are one of the longest standing teams in the ECL. After a great regular season, the team headed into the playoffs as the number 1 seed. In the postseason they went through round by round without much trouble but in the finals, they found themselves in a difficult spot. After winning the first game they lost three games in a row and were their back against the wall heading into the third period of game 5 being down by two goals. That period ended up being the turning point of the series as they managed to tie the game in the last minute and took the win home in OT. A dominant 6-2 victory in game 6 saw them heading into the deciding game seven with all the momentum and they used it.  @LATMinx has been with the team from day one and was their MVP of the season, scoring 20 points in the finals series, and finishing the playoffs with an impressive 38+38=72 point total.   We got a chance to interview SSG's left defenceman Linards @Lxnards Logins after clinching the title, you can watch it below.   Road to Championship: Regular season: 17-1-1-1, 54 points, 1st in Group 3 and Seed 1 Round 1: 4-2 vs EV Duisburg Round 2: 4-1 vs Salaseura Quarterfinals: 4-1 vs HC Last Resort Semifinals: 4-1 vs Rusty X Finals: 4-3 vs KOST Wolves Championship Roster Mārtiņš @martinssilins Siliņš (C) Kristaps @kriteris Grinfelds (A) Robert @LATMinx Zariņš (A) Edgars @Shmiha99 Naida Linards @Lxnards Logins Gatis @gacorigavecit17 Klekers Henrihs @Rocket_Science72 Lazdāns Kristaps @CapinsH-LV Zūdiņš   Thank you for the great season and once again Congratulations to the Silver Sword Griffins!  

Competitive players, the wait is over — WECL Season 4 is here! After a two-year break, the league is making a triumphant return, and registration is officially open. Don’t miss this opportunity to compete, reconnect, and be part of the action as WECL makes its long-awaited comeback. What to Expect in Season 4? Season 4 brings an exciting and straightforward format designed to maximize competition and fun. Here’s what’s in store: No X-Factors: This season, no X-Factors (Gold and Silver) are allowed to be used in loadouts. More info on X-Factor change below. Switch to a 3-Point System: We’re moving to a 3-point system for wins this season, replacing the previous 2-point system. This adjustment adds more value to victories and increases the competitive stakes. Three Game Days per Week: Matches will be held three times a week, ensuring plenty of opportunities to compete and climb the standings. Season Start: The action kicks off on February 17, 2025, so mark your calendars and get ready for the season. Playoffs: The playoffs are set to begin on March 24, 2025, though the exact schedule may vary depending on the number of teams that sign up. Whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, this season promises a competitive and enjoyable experience for all! No X-Factors: A New Era for WECL Competition The upcoming season of the WECL is set to introduce a groundbreaking change aimed at redefining the competitive landscape. In a bold move to prioritize skill and strategy, the league has implemented a new rule banning the use of all X-Factors, both Gold and Silver. This decision marks a significant shift in gameplay, as X-Factors have long been a pivotal element in shaping team dynamics and individual performance. By removing these abilities, the league seeks to level the playing field, fostering a more balanced and skill-driven environment. The introduction of this rule is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the competition, challenging players to rely on pure skill, strategic planning, and adaptability. WECL organizers believe this change will not only elevate the quality of play but also enhance the overall experience, as matches will now be decided by player expertise rather than additional boosts. As the new season approaches, anticipation is building to see how this adjustment will impact the game and test competitors’ true abilities. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for WECL, one that underscores the league’s commitment to innovation and fair play. Who Can Join? The WECL is open to everyone*, from seasoned veterans to newcomers eager to make their debut. Gather your team, brush off the rust, and prepare to make your mark as the league returns after its hiatus. *Eligibility rules apply; see below “Eligibility” section. Key Dates Registration Opens: January 31, 2025 Registration Closes: February 14, 2025 Season Start: February 17, 2025 How to Sign Up? Joining is simple: Visit the official WECL Season 4 registration page. Log in or create your account. Register your team and finalize your roster. Eligibility As a regional league, the WECL has three officially recognized countries (ES, FR, and UK). However, teams based in countries that are not represented in the current (ongoing or not) SportsGamer regional leagues (CSCL, GCL, RCL, FCL, and SCL) are also able to take part. Teams from the following countries are eligible for the WECL and their players don’t count against the foreign player cap: Albania Andorra Armenia Austria Azerbaijan Belarus Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Denmark Estonia France Georgia Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Kazakhstan Republic Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg North Macedonia Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Romania San Marino Serbia Slovenia Spain Switzerland Turkey Ukraine UK Vatican City Teams from the following countries are already eligible for another regional league and cannot sign teams up; players will also count against the foreign player cap: Czech Republic Slovakia Germany Russia Finland Sweden Players from these countries are counted against a limit of 2 foreign players on the roster, with the allowance of only one of them being on ice. Additionally, in order to better facilitate the opportunities for local players to naturally grow, the WECL also enforces a skill cap, meaning that foreign players with ECL Elite status will not be able to participate in the league. ECL Elite status is determined by having represented an Elite team in either ECL '25 Winter or ECL '24 Spring. Communication English is the official language of the WECL, and all communications related to the Championship — whether from the League Administration (LA) or Regional League Administration (RLA) — will be conducted in English. However, participants are welcome to use English, French, or Spanish in the league’s dedicated sub-forum. Exceptions The WECL is committed to inclusivity, welcoming teams that may not feel represented in other regional leagues. If you need to request an exception to the rules, please use the support tool to submit your case. We also encourage all participants to review the full rulebook, as this overview is only a small portion of the complete regulations. After a two-year break, WECL is back and ready to deliver an exciting Season 4. We can’t wait to see teams bring their passion and skill to the competition. Let’s make this a tournament to remember! Thank you, and see you on the ice!

With the holidays now behind us and most of the division having officially reached the halfway point of the season, let's take a look at how each team has done, where they stand, and what their outlook could be as we head into the final stretch of the regular season. We will go in order of standings as of January 1st, as well as give the calculated odds for where each team could finish at the end of the season. Also, please remember that these are all just opinions and are all just for the sake of conversation and to provide the league with fun content. If you don’t agree with any of them, then that is fine, just be respectful! Now with that out of the way, let’s get into each of the 16 teams. Tohtorit Playoffs: 99.7% 1st: 41% Top 1–4: 82% 4–8: 18% 9–12: <1% One Quick Storyline: Key Transfers Have Tohtorit Back On Top This team is a great example of how just one or two key transfers can take a team from a middle-of-the-pack playoff team to a legitimate championship contender. Though Tohtorit isn’t unfamiliar with being in the Top 4, they took a significant step back last season, making the playoffs by just one point and being knocked out in 5 games in the Quarterfinals vs the eventual champions Last Dance. So how do they respond? By adding in two former teammates and multi-time Elite champions in @Patzlaf and @FlyerKungen. Though Tohtorit were a team that long benefitted from keeping the same six guys in the lineup over the years and making a shift from guys who you are long familiar in playing with is never easy, but they saw teams who were previously behind them in the Elite division pecking order, surpass them last season, so though the group didn’t need a complete overhaul, a fresh look was always going to do them a lot of good. As of now, it could have them in position to be at the top of the league come playoff time. GOONS Playoffs: 97% 1st: 29% Top 1–4: 68% 4–8: 29% 9–12: 3% One Quick Storyline: New-Look GOONS Gives Newfound Results I think after multiple seasons of waiting, we can officially say it now. GOONS are back, and they might be better than ever. This team underwent a significant roster revamp over the offseason after a disappointing 12th in the standings and narrowly avoiding a relegation series. The additions of @xrikardo55 and @x-_-BoBi-_-x (OsquuG), the league’s two leading point-getters as of this writing, may go down as the most important of the offseason. These two have helped to completely rejuvenate this team offensively and have given it a much different look than what many had become accustomed to from this club over the years. They are currently the division’s third-highest scoring offense at 3.83 GF/GP, while last season they were ranked 10th at 2.87 GF/GP. Their only two returning starters from last season were @tkantola and @Sakkem, with Kantola moving back to defense with Sakkem to make room for their three new forwards. The move has clearly paid off, as GOONS, who last season gave up more goals than any team in the division at 3.87, have slimmed that GA/GP down to 2.83. It remains to be seen if this team can carry it over into the playoffs, but at the very least, they should be a lock to make it there. Considering where this club's trajectory had been over the past 5-6 seasons, which included them even being relegated out of Elite for a short time before being saved by a preseason qualifier, I think they’ll be quite pleased with the progress they’ve made thus far. Umpikuja Playoffs: 92% 1st: 12% Top 1–4: 48% 4–8: 44% 9–12: 8% One Quick Storyline: Umpikuja Continues To Take Strides After Spring Momentum For those who didn’t keep up with the many name changes that happened over the offseason, Umpikuja was formerly Heimo. This group made a long-awaited return to the playoffs after a multi-season hiatus last season, and were even able to push the defending champions, Parasite, to a hard-fought six-game series in the Quarterfinals. The question for ECL 26 was going to be, how could they follow it up? Especially after losing multiple key pieces to that team in @KingOfApes_ and @Mozjayh. So far, Umpikuja has shown that they aren’t just a stable playoff contender now, but they may even be better than they were last season. They still have to play multiple other playoff contenders, including HAVU Gaming, Mythix, and vNexs, but as of now, they are currently on pace to finish 2nd in the standings and have the tiebreaker over Tohtorit for the #1 seed if they can get there. It’ll take a lot, and I personally wouldn’t be shocked to see this team finish outside of the Top 2, but Top 4 is definitely in play, and it's another step up for a team that continues to rise despite different names being in and out of the lineup over the past 9 months. HAVU Gaming Playoffs: 94% 1st: 14% Top 1–4: 55% 4–8: 39% 9–12: 6% One Quick Storyline: Preseason Favorite Flexes Muscle In Regular Season First and foremost, I just want to say how nice it is to have the HAVU Gaming brand back in the ECL. Things just didn’t feel the same without seeing the green and black this time of year. Now that we’ve got the formalities out of the way, let’s talk about the team that many believed were the favorites to win it all coming into the season. So far, HAVU have been about as good as expected. After all, most of this group is the same roster that had the most dominant season of all time in the ECL 25 Winter campaign as Parasite. @Beniittto , @NikkeDangles and @Vattuyy picked up right where they left off after just one season away as a trio, as they’re averaging a ridiculous 5.31 GF/GP, which is currently on pace to shatter the Elite Division record of 5 GF/GP that they set a year ago. Meanwhile, @Teemuyy and @txmbo999 continue to be one of, if not the best defensive pairing in all of Europe. I wish that I had more of a hard-hitting analysis for this team, but they’re just exactly what everyone thought they would be coming into this season. They’re dominant, they’re fun to watch, and there aren’t many teams who seem to have an answer for them. Though they currently sit 4th in the standings due to playing just 16 games, I’d be stunned to not see them in the Top 2 at the end of the regular season. vNexs I Playoffs: 78% 1st: 3% Top 1–4: 22% 4–8: 56% 9–12: 18% Relegation Series: 4% One Quick Storyline: Is This The Season That vNexs I Breaks Its Playoff Drought? Oddly enough, it's been a while since we’ve seen vNexs I in the playoffs; two years to be exact. A lot of things in the league have changed since that ECL 24 Winter Season. Only three of the teams from that season still go by the same name, and seven of the teams from that season are either no longer in Elite or no longer exist at all. This group has stuck around in Elite and endured a bit of a rebuild during that time, but they’re finally seeing the fruits of the labor pay off this season, and it’s resulted in one of their best campaigns in years. Though they still need to play some heavy hitters such as HAVU and GOONS, and other playoff contenders like ROBE Esports, Mythix and AFTERLIFE, vNexs has put itself in a position that they haven’t been in during the finals weeks of recent seasons. They control their own playoff destiny. Avoiding a rough start like they’d seen in past seasons was the key to this; now it’s up to them to take advantage by following it up with a strong finish. ROBE Esports Playoffs: 55% 1st: 1% Top 1–4: 10% 4–8: 45% 9–12: 35% Relegation Series: 10% One Quick Storyline: ROBE Esports Continues To Thrive In Underdog Role There are a few teams that I’ve seen the ECL community rally around the way it did with ROBE Esports last season. This team was a total underdog throughout much of its playoff run, and they ended that run by knocking out two of the Top 3 overall seeds, who were both loaded with Elite-caliber talent, and culminating that into one of the more memorable Pro titles in recent memory. We’ve seen many stories like ROBE in the past, though, a team that got hot at the right time in Pro, made it up to Elite, and didn't prove to be good enough to hang with the big dogs. Obviously, ROBE didn’t get that memo, because so far, they seem to be fitting right in with Europe’s best teams. Though their offensive output is middle of the pack, their defensive work and goaltending have been amongst the division’s best, as ROBE currently ranks 4th in GA/GP with 2.4. This ranks higher than multiple notable teams, including GOONS, Umpikuja, and Mythix. Though they only have 10 games remaining, eight of those are against teams currently out of the playoffs and six are against teams that are currently 13th or lower in the standings. If ROBE can take care of business by winning the games that they should, they could very well find themselves in position to hold on to a spot in the Top 8 and potentially avoid facing one of the top two or three teams. Mythix Playoffs: 46% 1st: <1% Top 1–4: 6% 4–8: 40% 9–12: 38% Relegation Series: 16% One Quick Storyline: Is Mythix Experiencing A Finals Hangover? This team was tantalizingly close to championship gold in the Spring season, falling in the Finals to Last Dance in a thrilling, seven-game series that would be decided by a game-winning goal in overtime. Coming that close just to fall short is one of the worst feelings you can experience, no matter what the situation may be, because you never know for certain if you’ll ever be able to get that close again. Though I do think that Mythix can do it, they’re going to have to find a better run of consistency than what they displayed during their first 14 games. They started off the season by winning their first three games, but then followed that up with a five-game losing streak where they only earned 2 points in the standings. On the positive side, though, they ended 2025 by winning each of their last six games, though none of these wins were against current playoff teams, and four of them were against teams that are ranked 13th or lower currently. Mythix only made one change to their lineup this offseason, adding @Mozjayh to their defense corps, who is a former champion and has proven to be a valuable defenseman in the past. I think that’s why it's so surprising to see them look so unconvincing this season. They haven’t been bad, but I just don’t think we’ve seen this team play to the same level that we saw from them in the Spring season. Again, this is mostly the same group that went toe-to-toe with a Last Dance team that featured some of the best ECL players of all time on its roster, yet they are currently on pace to just barely make the playoffs, as they rank 6th in P/G. Personally, I fully believe that Mythix are still amongst the title favorites despite a slower start. They’ve lost most of their games close and are too talented not to figure it out. Hopefully for them, the holiday break will give them some time to reset and readjust. If they do return to form, the rest of the division will have to look out closely. AFTERLIFE Playoffs: 42% 1st: <1% Top 1–4: 5% 4–8: 37% 9–12: 41% Relegation Series: 17% One Quick Storyline: Another Newcomer Shows They Belong in Elite Similarly to ROBE Esports, AFTERLIFE have shown what a successful promotion to the Elite Division can look like. Despite a slow start to the season, losing five of their first six games in regulation, AFTERLIFE have begun to come to life as they continue to get adjusted to the higher level of competition. Since that rough start, they’re 6-3-1 and have put themselves right in the thick of the playoff hunt with 14 games remaining. They have some critical series coming up with some of the division’s most experienced clubs, as they still have games against Tohtorit, EXEN, Mythix, and KUUSAMO.gg, with the latter two teams being one spot ahead and one spot behind them in the standings currently. They also suffered a sweep vs ROBE Esports during that early-season losing skid that resulted in zero points, something that could come back to haunt them at the end of the season, as these two could very well be battling for one of the final playoff spots. Regardless of this, AFTERLIFE should at be able to see themselves finish Top 12 barring another bad run of form, but if they can capitalize on some of those series against teams around them in the standings, then their ambitions could be even higher. Kuusamo.gg Playoffs: 34% Top 1–4: 3% 4–8: 31% 9–12: 44% Relegation Series: 22% One Quick Storyline: Is It Time To Worry About KUUSAMO.gg? Maybe the headline is me projecting my own personal concerns, but for the first time since this team burst onto the scene back in ECL 23 Spring in the Lite Division as Mustaa Kultaa, I am legitimately concerned about where this team stands. Now, before you say that I’m being over reactionary, allow me to take you all the way back to around this time of the ECL 25 Spring season. At the time, Mustaa Kultaa was sitting pretty. They were 3rd in the standings and looked primed for another potential Finals appearance. It seems like ever since that point, this team has quietly fallen off a bit. They ended the regular season losing 8 of their last 12 games, and were bounced by EXEN in the Quarterfinals in six games. Sure, it was a step back from their Winter campaign that saw them just two wins away from an Elite title, but surely they were going to be back in contention this season, especially with @xAaro89x rejoining the team after spending one season with Parasite. They even got a well-deserved sponsorship for the season as well. Unfortunately, that optimism hasn’t materialized 16 games in, and it's clear that this group is a good bit away from where they were 365 days ago. They rank around the middle of the pack in just about every team stat, and even their most reliable stars have seen down seasons individually. They’re 3-6-1 in their last 10 games, and they have multiple key series coming up vs the likes of AFTERLIFE, SSK ESPORTS Umpikuja, and HAVU. KUUSAMO desperately needs to pick up points in all of these series. If they don’t, then their path to the playoffs becomes much merkier. If they do happen to miss the Top 8, don’t be surprised if we see some significant adjustments made over the offseason. SSK Esports Playoffs: 28% Top 1–4: 2% 4–8: 26% 9–12: 46% Relegation Series: 26% One Quick Storyline: SSK Still Hanging Around Despite Poor Run of Form The shock of the Elite Division a season ago, SSK ESPORTS found themselves not only making the playoffs a season ago, but they were never in much danger of not making it at any point of the season. This was a team that many, including myself, had written off prior to the Spring campaign and had even predicted them to be relegated in the process. Instead, they consistently found themselves on the positive side of the table and gave Mythix a competitive run in their playoff series despite bowing out in five games. It was always going to be a question of whether their Spring campaign was just a magical run or something sustainable, and though this season has not been as high-flying for the Swedish contingent, I do think they have proven that they are a solidified team in this division who can compete with anyone when they’re playing to their capabilities. SSK Esports are still very much alive in the playoff race, and they have some series coming up against ROBE Esports, Polski Boys, and EXEN that could directly swing their chances. The biggest concern is that they were arguably one of the coldest teams in the division prior to the holiday break, having lost 8 of their last 9 games. This is disappointing considering that they started out the season 5-2-0 and looked well on their way to being a playoff lock, but what’s done is done, and they'll now how to earn their way into the right side of the table over the next two weeks, all while also trying to avoid falling below 12th. Polski Boys Playoffs: 25% Top 1–4: 1% 4–8: 24% 9–12: 47% Relegation Series: 28% One Quick Storyline: New Season, Same Story For Polski Boys I’ll be honest. I don’t think there is a team in this division that confuses me more than the Polski Boys. Every single season I find myself fully believing that they’re a team that are capable of making the playoffs, and they always find themselves directly in the hunt, but no matter what they do, or what moves they make, they just can’t seem to get over the hump. So far, things look no different for this team despite their roster seeing multiple key transfers added to the team. This offseason was probably the most significant that we’ve seen from this team in terms of roster moves, as they brought in former Tunnel Vision teammates and Elite division champions in @Pikkarii, @wengerii and @benuh_. All three of these players were starters and key contributors to that Tunnel Vision team, so it would’ve been fair to assume that their experience, skill and familiarity with each other would elevate this team. Yet the moves haven’t seemed to move the needle at all, and in all honesty, it's just puzzling to me. They’re the third-lowest scoring team in the division at 2.14 GF/GP, but as per usual, are a very sound team in their own end, ranking 6th in GA/GP with 2.57. This is Polski Boys’ fifth season in the Elite division, and they are still looking to make the playoffs for the first time at this level. They've again been mired by the same issues that have kept them out in the past: Inconsistency and a lack of scoring punch. They still have a chance to make it in, as they’ve only played in 14 games, but they’ve only got 9 out of a possible 27 points against playoff teams so far, and their current form won’t cut it. I’d really love to see them turn things around, but it currently is trending to be another season in No Man’s Land for this club. Vizio Playoffs: 14% Top 1–4: <1% 4–8: 13% 9–12: 38% Relegation Series: 41% Auto-relegation: 7% One Quick Storyline: Vizio Hoping To Solidify Elite Status In Debut Season After finishing as runner-ups in the Pro Division in the Springand winning their way into Elite through the Qualifier prior to this season, Vizio is in position to maintain their spot for the Spring if they can finish the rest of the season strong. Though I’m sure that they would love to be in the position that their fellow newcomers are in ROBE Esports and AFTERLIFE, not every team walks the same path, and for Vizio, they haven’t been able to adjust to the Elite level as quickly. Their 22 games played are the second-most of any team in the division, which is why their playoff chances are so slim according to the math. They’ve unfortunately been hampered by lengthy losing streaks, including a nine-game and seven-game losing streak this season, while also not being able to string together any win streaks to counteract that, as they’ve only won three games so far this season. Luckily for Vizio, they only have one more series against a current playoff team, and that’s AFTERLIFE who are currently the last team in the field. They also have gotten some phenomenal play from their goaltender @SakkeTheEngineer, who leads the division in saves made with 346, while managing a respectable 78.1SV%. If they can steal a few wins from the likes of Tiki x Pwoile, EXEN, and Polski Boys, then they may be able to avoid a relegation series, but they will need to figure out their winning ways quickly to do so. Tiki x Pwoile Playoffs: 9% Top 1–4: 0% 4–8: 9% 9–12: 32% Relegation Series: 48% Auto-relegation: 11% One Quick Storyline: Things Are Not All Well In Tiki Land Similarly to HAVU, it’s really nice to see the TIKI TALK branding back in the Elite Division. The club has played 1,009 games in the ECL during its time, which is amongst the most in ECL history across all divisions. This club was actually one on the rise a year ago, as they finished 10th in Elite but had a Top 5 scoring offense. Unfortunately, some roster and leadership changes saw them go away for the Spring campaign, ultimately becoming Vapor who finished 16th and were relegated down to the Pro Division. Tiki x Pwoile ended up taking over the Vapor team and earned their way back into the Elite division via the Qualifier. Unfortunately, like many of the teams around them in this part of the standings, Tiki x Pwoile have struggled to find any winning form. They don’t suffer long losing streaks, with their longest of the season being just four games, but they also don’t string together wins either, as they’ve had just one win streak that lasted two games. Additionally, this team has the second-lowest GF/GP (2.06) while also having the third-highest GA/GP (4.44). This isn’t a recipe for success, and it’s directly led to this team simply fighting to stay out of relegation, barring a miraculous comeback. EXEN Playoffs: 6% Top 1–4: 0% 4–8: 6% 9–12: 27% Relegation Series: 52% Auto-relegation: 15% One Quick Storyline: Own-End Struggles Doom What Could’ve Been For EXEN It’s crazy to think that just seven months ago, EXEN was playing in the Elite semifinals against the eventual champions. Now, they currently find themselves 14th in the division, barely alive in the playoff hunt, and in serious danger of being out of the Elite division altogether. This to me, without question, is both the biggest surprise and biggest disappointment of the season. Though I didn’t feel like this team had as high a floor as some of the EXEN teams of past years, they undoubtedly felt like a team that would finish Top 10 at worst. Two of their players, @Puantso and @Lxndstrom, just won the Elite division championship last season with Last Dance. They also saw two long-time linemates make their return to the team in @tbnantti and @indi969, who bring plenty of chemistry and experience into the lineup. Taking a look at the stats, they are actually a pretty respectable team offensively, as they rank in the top half of the division GF/GP and powerplay percentage. The problem is that they have been one of the worst teams in Elite in every defensive category. EXEN is dead-last in the Elite Division in GA/GP (4.67) and penalty kill percentage (54.5%). There’s technically still time for them to turn it around, as they have more games remaining than any other team in the league and all but two of their games have been against playoff teams, but this team has been simply dreadful at anything that isn’t offense. I promise that I don’t mean to be rude in saying that, but there isn’t another way to describe it other than what it is. I think they’ll find themselves in the 9–12 range despite what the numbers say, but the hole is likely too deep for them to have a realistic shot at the playoffs at this point. Vesuvius Esports Playoffs: 2% 4–8: 2% 9–12: 18% Relegation Series: 56% Auto-relegation: 24% One Quick Storyline: Star Names In An Unfamiliar Position for Vesuvius Esports Though this team is new to the Elite Division, many of the names on its roster are not. In fact, multiple of them are former champions, former individual award winners, or both. The fact that a team that as @Laiitinen, @KingOfApes_ and @kriketski17 on its roster is sitting one spot away from automatic relegation, is shocking to me. This doesn’t even include @AdriF_23, who was one of the best players in the Pro Division last season and someone that I would’ve had locked in as a Rookie of the Season contender prior to the season, as he was coming off of a 116 point and 70 assist campaign with Pirates Esports, leading the Pro Division in both stats. This team’s biggest issue has been its defensive struggles, as they have the second-highest GA/GP in the division at 4.45. Despite the stats, I think that their goaltender @Brainrovsky deserves a shoutout, as he has still managed very respectable individual stats with a 78.2SV%. This team will likely be harmed by losing to some of the teams ahead of them that aren’t in the playoffs, such as Vizio, Tiki x Pwolle, and others. Though they aren’t mathematically out, their chances at making the playoffs are close to none with just 10 games remaining, and they will likely just be fighting to stay out of 16th, as they are currently tied with Kastikauppa Esports at 11 points while having six more games played. These two teams have yet to meet head-to-head, so that series could very well decide which team sees themselves automatically relegated at the end of the season. Kastikauppa Esports Playoffs: <1% 4–8: <1% 9–12: 12% Relegation Series: 44% Auto-relegation: 44% One Quick Storyline: Kastikauppa Esports Looks To Stay Alive For Second-Straight Season Formerly under the ONSE Esports name, Kastikauppa Esports did just enough to maintain their place in the Elite Division. They finished above last-place Vapor by four points in the regular season, and then had a Game 7 victory in their relegation series vs Vapor to secure their place for ECL 26 Winter. Wildly enough the difference in them getting in and earning 5 points in the final three games of the season. In other words, they were dangerously close to being bumped down a season ago, and they now find themselves in almost the exact same position in their second Elite season. Though the math seems to favor EXEN and Vesuvius Esports to avoid finishing 16th compared to Kastikauppa, I would actually suggest that Kastikauppa has the more favorable route to points. They still play multiple non-playoff teams ahead of them, including Tiki x Pwoile, EXEN, and Vesuvius Esports, who each rank 13–15th. The most interesting part is that this team is actually respectable defensively, as they rank 10th in GA/GP at 2.93. What is hindering them is that their offense just hasn’t been able to produce, as Kastikauppa ranks last in Elite in GF/GP at 1.93. They are also the only team in the division that has yet to score a powerplay goal. Maybe this is just personal preference, but I would favor the team with reliable defense and goaltending that has struggles scoring, than the team that can score, but can’t find their way defensively or get enough saves from the goaltending to make up for it. They have some extremely tough series to go along with those series that we mentioned earlier, including games against both Tohtorit and HAVU, Mythix and vNexs I, so I would be surprised to see them avoid a relegation series, but if they can avoid the automatic relegation that comes with finishing 16th, then this team has shown that it can handle the pressures of playing with their spot in Elite on the line. We’ll see if they can do it again this season.

The ECL25 Spring Core Division regular season has wrapped, and what a ride it’s been. With 49 teams fighting for just 32 playoff spots, only the most consistent, balanced, and resilient squads made it through. This article breaks down the top-performing teams, highlights standout players, and provides a preview of the playoff matchups. Whether you're a competitor or a fan, here's everything you need to know about one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. Playoffs schedule Playoffs (BO7) Round of 32: Tuesday 27.5 Thursday 29.5 Sunday 1.6 Round of 16: Tuesday 3.6. Thursday 5.6. Sunday 8.6. Quarterfinals: Tuesday 10.6. Thursday 12.6. Sunday 15.6. Semifinals: Monday 16.6. Wednesday 18.6. Thursday 19.6. Finals: 25.6 - 26.6 * * Dates are subject to change as broadcast productions are confirmed. Group Breakdown: Who Stood Out and Why Group 1 : Dynamo HC (47 pts): A model of consistency. With 91 goals scored and just 39 conceded, they bring balance and stability to the ice. Their power play efficiency sits at a healthy 28.13%, and their penalty kill is rock solid at 86.49%. VBO Stars (44 pts): Efficient and steady, they’ve allowed only 52 goals. While their power play leaves room for improvement (16.28%), they play with discipline and keep penalty minutes low. Viitapohja Vikings (43 pts): Dangerous offensively (83 GF) and nearly impenetrable on the penalty kill (96.3%). Their main concern lies in defensive consistency. HC Lisko (40 pts): A balanced contender with strong faceoff skills (54.71%) and defensive structure. NAM3LESS (32 pts): This team thrives on toughness. Their 499 hits lead the group. Scoring remains a challenge, but their defense and penalty kill (92.86%) give them a shot in low-scoring games. Beer Bears (26 pts), BACKCHECK BOYS (25 pts), TeNo (24 pts): Also qualified for playoffs, though with more inconsistencies. TeNo's power play is dangerous, but they concede far too many goals. BACKCHECK BOYS and Beer Bears need tighter defense. Group 2 : ARMEIJAN KURI (61 pts): A physically dominant team (665 hits) with a formidable goal differential (101 GF, 52 GA). Their 96.55% penalty kill rate makes them incredibly hard to beat. Nordic Nosebleed (57 pts): Lethal on the power play (34.55%) and aggressive in the offensive zone with 97 goals. Fallen Rangers (50 pts): The league's most explosive offense with 125 goals. Their challenge? Shoring up a defense that gave up 82. CapeTown Kings (37 pts), Bare Knuckles Hockey (35 pts), Auramo Hockey Club (34 pts), HC KOROBKA (33 pts), MIESKISSAT (33 pts): These teams round out the top 8 and secured playoff berths. Auramo and CapeTown offer balanced play. HC KOROBKA and Bare Knuckles bring physicality but must tighten defensively. MIESKISSAT combines strong scoring with faceoff dominance. Group 3 : Harhapassi: Strong defensively (57 GA) with a gritty style (441 hits). Their low faceoff win rate (46.46%) might hurt in close games. SKYFALL: Arguably the most dangerous team with the puck. They boast the best power play (35.14%) and penalty kill (92.31%) in the division. Prowlers: Their mix of solid defense, above-average faceoff wins, and physicality (389 hits) makes them well-rounded contenders. KELAGOLDCARD HC, Surte Sisu HC, Taifun Veterans, Wildcats esport I, Zamboni Zorros: All playoff-bound. KELAGOLDCARD is high scoring but defensively unstable. Surte and Taifun bring offensive threats. Wildcats struggle with control but stay aggressive. Zamboni Zorros sneak in with great faceoffs but need more scoring. Group 4 : HC Purijat (62 pts): The standard for defensive excellence. Allowing just 36 goals all season, they combine efficiency with a physical edge. Conexion (62 pts): Equal in points to Purijat, Conexion plays a disciplined, position-focused game. Their power play at 27.66% is a big factor in close games. Sopranos (47 pts): Built on elite defense and heavy physical play (523 hits). Their penalty kill (94.87%) gives them an edge in grind-it-out matchups. HC Vilttimiehet (44 pts), Koppibuutti (44 pts), Nordic Knights (38 pts), Pulp Odyssey (35 pts), Siniviiva Snipers (33 pts): These teams complete the top 8 and earn playoff spots. Vilttimiehet play tight defensively, while Koppibuutti brings the league’s most physical play. Pulp Odyssey shines in faceoffs; Siniviiva Snipers combine effort with scoring grit. Top Individual Performers Scoring Machines: @Sebko99 (Fallen Rangers): Dominant with 43 goals and 81 points. His ability to score under pressure (7 PPGs, 6 GWGs) sets him apart. @Timo Silakka (Harhapassi): 40 goals with a staggering 44.9% shooting accuracy. Rare efficiency. @nuariatte (HC Purijat): 42 goals, including 13 game-winners. He knows when to show up. Elite Playmakers: @Gadzovec (Taifun Veterans) Leads the league with 44 assists and and incredible vision on the ice. @JaakkoJoonas (HC Purijat): 37 assists with just one goal—a true pass-first player. Two-Way Forces: @Tuhoaja542 & @Bjorssi (xDallee_6) (HC Purijat): Matching +59 ratings show their importance at both ends of the rink. @hefezuk85 (ARMEIJAN KURI): A reliable two-way presence with 27 goals, 35 assists, and a +32 rating. Defensive Wall Builders: @JakkeDangles & @DobboJ90 (Conexion): +42 each. Defensive pillars that rarely take penalties. @Zamiboii (Zambouni_ )(HC Lisko): Another high + rating (+31) with low PIMs—an efficient shutdown D-man. Goaltending Aces: @Japemode (HC Purijat): A 1.41 GAA and 21 wins in 22 games is pure dominance. @Joe NHL (Gremlingswe) (Conexion): 8 shutouts and 1.58 GAA make him the goalie to watch. @Jiihooo86 (HC Vilttimiehet): Solid numbers across the board (SV% 84.15 2.17 GAA, 15W, 4 SO). @Mrantonn (Prowlers): A steady force with 87.64% SV% GAA: 2.25, proving he can handle playoff pressure. Playoff Matchups & Predictions This year’s playoff bracket is stacked from top to bottom. Here’s a full look at the 16 opening-round matchups, along with predictions based on team stats, form, and key player impact. Seed 1 vs Seed 8: HC Purijat vs TeNo: Purijat comes in with elite defense and depth scoring. TeNo’s high-pace offense might steal a game, but their leaky defense (94 GA) is a big liability. Expect Purijat to dominate puck control and capitalize on special teams. Prediction: 4–1 Purijat ARMEIJAN KURI vs Zamboni Zorros: Zorros will struggle to match KURI’s physicality and penalty kill. KURI’s structure is built for playoff grind, and their 665 hits say it all. Prediction: 4–1 ARMEIJAN KURI Harhapassi vs Siniviiva Snipers: Harhapassi brings heavy defense and discipline, while Siniviiva lacks in goal support. If Harhapassi avoids penalties, they should cruise. Prediction: 4–1 Harhapassi Dynamo HC vs MIESKISSAT: Dynamo scores over 4.5 per game and defends tight. MIESKISSAT will need heroics in goal to compete. Prediction: 4–0 Dynamo Seed 2 vs Seed 7: Conexion vs BACKCHECK BOYS: Conexion’s possession and structure give them a big edge. BACKCHECK has some bite but lacks defensive discipline. Prediction: 4–1 Conexion SKYFALL vs HC KOROBKA: SKYFALL’s explosive attack and elite special teams should expose KOROBKA’s defensive gaps. Prediction: 4–2 SKYFALL Nordic Nosebleed vs Wildcats esport I: Nosebleed’s power play will be a key difference. Wildcats are physical, but outgunned. Prediction: 4–2 Nosebleed VBO Stars vs Pulp Odyssey: VBO’s consistency gives them the edge, but Pulp’s faceoff win rate might create some close games. Prediction: 4–1 VBO Seed 3 vs Seed 6: Viitapohja Vikings vs Beer Bears: Vikings have an incredible PK (96%) and better balance. Beer Bears concede too many goals. Prediction: 4–2 Vikings Fallen Rangers vs Auramo HC: Rangers’ top line is dangerous. Auramo plays disciplined, but can't match the firepower. Prediction: 4–1 Rangers Sopranos vs Nordic Knights: A clash of styles—Sopranos’ elite PK vs Nordic’s faceoff control. Should go the distance. Prediction: 4–3 Sopranos Prowlers vs Taifun Veterans: High offense vs high control. Taifun scores more, but their 59% PK is a problem. Prediction: 4–3 Prowlers Seed 4 vs Seed 5: HC Lisko vs Bare Knuckles Hockey: Lisko controls the puck better and has tighter defense. Bare Knuckles will need to stay out of the box. Prediction: 4–2 Lisko HC Vilttimiehet vs NAM3LESS: NAM3LESS is physical but Vilttimiehet’s structured play and PK should hold. Prediction: 4–3 Vilttimiehet KELAGOLDCARD HC vs Surte Sisu HC: Surte has better faceoff numbers and slightly better defense. Could go either way. Prediction: 4–3 Surte CapeTown Kings vs Koppibuutti: Two tight defensive teams, but Koppibuutti hits harder and scores more consistently. Prediction: 4–2 Koppibuutti Final Thoughts From elite scorers to lockdown goaltenders, and from physical grinders to surgical power plays, this season delivered excellence. Now the playoffs are here—and every round promises drama. The top seeds are confident, but mid-tier teams like the Prowlers, Sopranos, and Surte Sisu HC could shake things up. Buckle up for a thrilling finish—the battle for the Core crown is on.

Our first champion has been crowned in the ECL '25: Winter season with Blackbirds defeating SSK Esports 4-0 in the finals of the Pro Division. With their championship, they clinch their spot in Elite in the upcoming ECL '25: Spring season whereas SSK will have to fight for their spot in the qualifiers. The core of the Blackbird squad goes all the way back to the ECL '22: Spring season but they really got going in the ECL '23: Spring Lite season with the xBOTS squad and earned a spot in Pro. After a very short-lived stint in the Pro Division, they got their original squad back together for another season in Lite. After that season they made some key changes in the lineup, acquiring their new goaltender and attacker who would end up being their top-scorer of their Championship season. Interestingly enough, prior to this season the team had never made it past the second round of the playoffs. The Blackbirds squad started their season in the Pro Qualifiers, which they went through in the second stage. After an up-and-down regular season, they found themselves in fifth place in Group 1 heading into the playoffs. In the postseason we saw a total turnaround from the team as they crushed opponents one after another, losing only two games on their road to the Championship. We got to see some great offense from the team as each of their attackers scored over a goal per game in the playoffs as well as one of the best goalie performances to remember. Following the footsteps of the Almost Famous team from the ECL '24: Spring season, they're now the second team to win a Championship in the Pro Division straight after being promoted. We got a chance to interview Blackbirds' captain and right winger Lauri @sopulii04 Enström after clinching the title, where he spoke about their season and the dominant playoff run. Blackbirds' Road to the Championship: Regular season: 13-5-5-7 (54pts) - 5th in Group 1 Round 1: 4-0 vs Aspyre Quarterfinals: 4-1 vs Ismon Valinta Semifinals: 4-1 vs NOVA Finals: 4-0 vs SSK ESPORTS Blackbirds' ECL '25: Winter - Pro Championship Roster Forwards: Lauri @sopulii04 Enström (C) Olli @I0LL1 Sorsa (A) Aatu @aomyo6195 Myöhänen Defense: Tommi @Kibeeex Lehtimäki Onni @ONN123 Forss (A) Goalies: Jesse @Jeerik17 Leppä Miika @miiixu96 Pulkkinen Huge congratulations to the team and all the players! See you in Elite

The group stage of the ECL ’26: Winter Lite division is heading into the Christmas break, and things are getting tense. Every match feels like it could shift the entire playoff picture, and teams are throwing everything they’ve got into these battles. The usual powerhouses have looked strong, keeping their spots near the top, while a few unexpected teams have started to shake things up with surprising wins. With contenders trying to lock down their 1st round byes for the playoffs and underdogs fighting to stay in the mix, the Lite division never disappoints. In this article, we'll review a few teams that have stood out, disappointed, and flat out just not stepped up this season, so have a read and give your own opinions in the comment section below on what you, the reader, would like to see in the next article. This report is based on stats and standings from December 11th.   Group 1   1st Round Bye's  Wida Wida have been in the Lite divison for some time now and are oozing confidence this season, they haven't been able to take that final step in their game in the previous seasons, but this season could be a different story, with almost 4 goals per game average, they are leading their group and will surely try and clinch that 1st seed for the playoffs soon.  Invasion Hockey The Swedes (mostly) are trying their best to give Wida a run for their money. They are not going away anytime soon, with talented @RookieLIAMOVIC leading the team in points, with the right amount of luck and a few mishaps from Wida, they might just see themselves at the top of the standings soon.    Fallen Rangers The Czech/Slovak team has emerged as a team that could easily take this group by storm, now in 2nd place, still a few fewer games played than Wida, so it will remain to be seen who tops this group. Standout player so far for Fallen Rangers is @Sebko99 who could emerge as a contender for the top scorer this season.   Making The Playoffs  Armeijan Kuri A team many had in the category above when the season started, they now find themselves in a somewhat comfortable place, not in any risk of being out of the playoffs, and with a few well-timed wins, they could push for the 1st round bye.  Hockeyholics  This Central European side will surely make the playoffs, with seasoned veterans like @ViSiOnZ97_ and @I_Alex28_I at the wheel. We're in for an interesting end to the regular season. Now it's up to them how they want to finish the season, but keep an eye out for them to make it difficult for their opponents.   On The Outside  FatBurritos After 8 losses already this season, it's looking grim for the FatBurritos; they have an uphill climb ahead of them, and it won't be pretty if they don't start grabbing some points.  Bladerunners HC In a similar situation to FatBurritos, it's not looking good, but with a few fewer games played, there is always a bit more hope at the end of the tunnel, so time to buckle up and show the rest of the group something.   Group 2 1st Round Bye's  Conexion Whoever wins the matchup between these two teams will likely be the group winner, no doubt about it, as Conexion has gone undefeated so far; they are the slight favourite. @Flo_goes_grazy(flgr93) is 2nd at the moment in goals in the entire Lite division with 23 goals; he'll look to add to that tally as the season progresses.  Veterankraft The heavy favourites to take the entire Lite division before the season started, and have shown exactly what they're capable of so far. @STRANDMANNEN11 has been on fire and has posted a mere 4.5 points per game, and has shown no signs of slowing down. Considering the rest of their roster, maybe this team should've performed better in the Pro qualifiers?   Making The Playoffs  Renegade HC  Also unbeaten with a 4-0-0-0 record so far, they still have a lot of games ahead of them, but a hot start to the season is often a recipe for success. Now they look to build on that start with @MartindalexC as their veteran leader, former Elite standout has shown he can be a guy to rely on when the games get tough, we'll see if that's the case this season.    HC Nova Hut  The mostly Central European-based team has played almost all their games already, so it remains to be seen how their playoff chances look after the Christmas break, but right now @Xkeineri, their Finnish skater has been their most productive player, a calm 32 points (15+17) so far for the experienced winger.   On The Outside  Iserlohn Roosters eSports  With some tough matches behind them, they can now focus on the games ahead. A few wins are needed for them to climb right back in it for the playoff hunt. A veteran team, with veteran players, has its upside in tough situations; they know their own strengths and stick to that. Now is the time to execute.  Mieskissat A brutal start for the Finns, one point in ten games is not the way to start your season... They now face the impossible: a few games left and not a lot to work with; they need a miracle to make the playoffs.   Group 3 1st Round Bye's  Kokemus Puuttuu  The veterans have started undefeated, with almost full points in every matchup, and now they need to keep that flow going. @Jobeyz sure knows this, he's been around for a long time, and this season in Lite he'll get to showcase his talent.  TROJANS Another team that has played a lot of games so far, 12 games under their belt, and they have started well, 27 points and counting. Now comes the time to clutch that 1st round bye that the Lite division offers, and @softa_tofta can be that guy for the Trojans.   Making The Playoffs  HC Vadelma  HC Vadelma has been grinding away the ECL ladder for a while now, and it seems like they've found a system that fits. They made the playoffs last year after a solid season, and now want to get past the 1st round. @Awesome_Zone_ has been with the team and making changes this season, and if they can finish the season strong, no doubt in my mind this team has what it takes to advance further than last year.  Pata Hellalla  A team with a rich history has made a splash, now looking to enter the Pro division once again. They started the season well with 4 wins in 6 games, looking solid, and will surely make it difficult for the opposing teams to get points this season.   On The Outside  Refuse Too Lose We've seen downfalls before, and now Refuse Too Lose joins that club, just a few seasons ago challenging the Pro division to eventual relegation, and now facing relegation once again. Captain @sonny has a roster full of players, and nine players have played at least two games this season. If their captain can't soon find a regular lineup, it'll be Core next season.  Jurricanes The Finns looked a lot better last season in Lite, claiming a comfortable 3rd seed in their group, with one win in 8 games, it seems we won't see them in the playoffs this year. With a few more losses this regular season, Jurricanes will find themselves in the qualifiers.   Group 4 1st Round Bye's  Supernatural A more even group for the top spot than the rest, however, Supernatural seems like the favourites with goalie @eissi83 absolutely dominating in net after making a comeback between the pipes, he boasts a 94,4% save percentage and a 0.88 goals against average, which would be up there with the Lite record if he keeps it going.  vNexs Vipers  The third-tier team for the vNex organization, which has been extremely active in the ECL scene with four teams all the way to the Elite division. Now the Vipers want to establish themselves in the Lite division, and look to join the team in the Pro division next season, and @Zonkji v sure is making a name for himself with 17 goals so far, he is looking for more as the Vipers hope to finish strong this season.   Making The Playoffs KELAGOLDCARD HC With last season's leading goalscorer on the sidelines @Leevijopo01 has only played 2 games so far, and the opponents are thankful. Kela has played their toughest matchups and look now to gain full points from their last matchups and claim a playoff spot. Captain @Romurallimies has been their leader this season with the most points and most time with the puck.  VBO STARS The Swedes average a respectable 2 points per game, where in other groups that could be fine for the 1st round bye, but not group 4, with the right amount of luck, they might just see themselves there this season. In the playoffs, they need a boost, and looking to @Hampus11 their leading scorer to lead the way. On The Outside SSK Adepts  When struggling to score, a team rarely gets a lot of points, and that's the case for the Adepts as they average a 2-goal per game pace this season. To avoid relegation this season, the whole roster needs to come together for a Christmas dinner and get some chemistry going before it's too late. Dynamo HC  The mostly British team has the same issues as the Adepts, and it's putting the puck in the net. They can't seem to have a consistent lineup on gamedays, and that shows in goals for department this season, qualifiers ahead surely, and considering the talent in the Core division, Dynamo might just find themselves one division lower next season.via  

Ahh, Spring. The birds are chirping, the flowers are growing again and the ECL Elite Division is back for another season. The last time we were all here, Parasite lifted the Elite Division trophy at Winter Assembly; capping off what will go down as one of the most dominant campaigns in ECL history. Now, they will hope to defend their crown against 15 contenders, each of them hoping to be crowned champions of the Elite Division for the Spring season. With the season officially getting underway this week, let's take a look at each of the division's 16 teams and catch up on some of the changes that we saw over the offseason. Also, though my name may be on the post, I have to thank @Mozjayh for helping put this piece together. Now without further ado, let's get into our Elite division preview. Blackbirds Last Season: Competed in Pro Division, ECL Pro Division Champions IN: - OUT: - After a Winter season where we saw multiple recently promoted teams make their name known in the Elite Division, Blackbirds are hoping to be the next breakout team in ECL's top tier after winning the Pro Division title in February. Despite not having a single game of Elite Division experience on its roster, Blackbirds returns its entire starting lineup from last season's championship team. What they lack in experience, they make up for in continuity and chemistry. This is a young and very skillful group who have a good philosophy in their game and have been able to use their individual skill as an advantage. Though the adjustment to playing Elite competition will be a viable concern for this team, many have said that they could be a dark horse in this season, certainly a team that I think no one expects to go down or be even close to it. I wouldn't expect this team to make a similar run as Mustaa Kultaa did last season in its inaugural Elite season, but their individual skill combined with their chemistry as a unit will help ease its transition in playing against the best teams that Europe has to offer. Though making it into the Top 8 feels like a lofty expectation, I do expect Blackbirds to catch a few teams by surprise this season. A successful season would be staying competitive and keeping themselves safe from the relegation zone; giving themselves something to build on for ECL '26. EXEN Last Season: Finished 7th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Tohtorit in 5 games IN: @x-_-BoBi-_-x from Mythix @h3rmu__ from FA OUT: @benuh_ to Falun Coal Miners @Mozjayh to Heimo @Lxndstrom to Last Dance EXEN's NHL 25 run has been one of the most fascinating stories there is. In last season's preview, I said that it was EXEN's most talented roster to date and that they should be a championship favorite. Six weeks later, EXEN barely made the playoffs and were ousted after just five games in the Quarterfinals. This team's biggest problem last season was goal-scoring and this showed up in the largest way in the playoffs. In their Quarterfinals series against Tohtorit, EXEN were outscored 8-2 and were shut out twice. Despite solid play on their own end, a lack of offense sealed this team's fate. This was an unmitigated disappointment for a group with championship-level talent, and arguably one of the biggest letdowns that we've seen in the Division in years. For whatever reason, things just never clicked for this group. This meant for multiple significant changes to the roster over the offseason to shake things up, as benuh_, Mozjayh, and Lxndstrom each departed to separate teams. To replace, them EXEN brought in one of the league's better point-producers in BoBi & an interesting signing in Hermu, who joins the team as a free agent after not playing since ECL 23 Spring in the Pro Division with Polski Boys. It would seem odd to sign someone like Hermu from an outside perspective, but he is a talented and mechanical winger who has so far fit in fine with the rest of the roster. Hermu will be making his Elite debut having only a total of 4 appearances in the lower Pro division. The loss of benuh also makes it clear that kaz_zu is the now uncontested starter at goalie for this team, as the two split times last season in both the regular season and playoffs. This group did play in the recent FCL, where they lost to Tohtorit again in the Round of 16, so the group has had some practice already. The expectations for this team are much more tame than they were six months ago, but they should still be a playoff team that should aim for a Top 4 finish in the standings. GOONS Last Season: Finished 8th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Parasite in 4 games IN: @Sakkem from Heimo @MrNipsuli from RYHTIC @LeiskaViis7 from Kymmenelta Clubille OUT: @sisu33_ to Almost Famous @Easychasniper2 to N0VA GOONS has been the rollercoaster team of the ECL for the past three years. They've seen the highs of an Elite Division Semifinals appearance, and the lows of being relegated to the Pro Division and having to earn their way back to Elite through a Qualifier last season. Considering that they had just hit what felt like rock bottom, many were surprised to see GOONS make the playoffs last season after not even being a lock for the Division just weeks before. GOONS are known for their unique, run-n-gun style of playing; powered by high-hitting numbers which has resulted in high-scoring games on both ends. Where they struggled however was in special teams, as besides Tohtorit, GOONS had the worst combined PP/PK in the division last season. GOONS returns most of its core from a season ago, but after a shockingly disappointing display in FCL, their young defensive pairing of Sisu and Easychasniper decided to go their own ways and leave the team. Replacing the duo are two experienced defenders in Sakkem and MrNipsuli, who each boast multiple successful seasons in the Elite Division. The team also added to their defense in Leiskaviis, a rookie who though has had some successful seasons in the Core and Lite divisions, played as a forward with Kymmenelta Clubille, who finished last in the Pro Division last season. Though to his credit, he was the team's leader in points with 42 and assists with 22. Thie biggest question for this team will be whether of not they can replicate last season. With increased parity and stiff competition in the mid-table, it'll be a tougher challenge for GOONS to find their way into the Top 8. I don't see this team elevating much more than it did last season, but they should be in the playoff conversation again and will hope to avoid the relegation battle. Heimo Last Season: Finished 12th in Regular Season standings IN: @Mozjayh from EXEN @KingOfApes_ from N0VA OUT: @xHatsi to FA @Sakkem to GOONS The last time we saw Heimo make the playoffs was two years ago in the ECL ’23: Spring season, back when they were under the JANO name. They switched to the Heimo name and brand after that season and haven’t made playoffs since, though core members of that team in SadaPoika, Eemil, and Vamoux have remained with the group during that time and are back again with the team this season as captains. Despite three straight disappointing finishes, Heimo made two key acquisitions in acquiring KingOfApes and Mozjayh. KingOfApes is back where he belongs in the Elite Division after spending last season in Pro, where he was instrumental in helping N0VA get promoted to Elite. It doesn't feel like long ago that KingOfApes was undoubtedly viewed as one of the best defenders in Europe and was an anchor for hREDS during their run of three straight Elite Division titles. I still believe that he has a level of form in him, though lack of team success since departing hREDS has hindered him over the last few seasons. Expect him to be a vocal point of this team and a frontrunner for Comeback Player of The Year throughout the season. Similarly to KingOfApes, Mozjayh was a key piece to a championship group, winning back-to-back championships with Tunnel Vision in ECL 23 and a third championship. with hREDS in the ECL 24 Winter Season. He spent the past two seasons with EXEN, but struggled to find his form last season with just 37 points in 28 games during the regular season. The former champion is now being given a fresh start with Heimo and will look to bounce back from what was a disappointing Winter. Any time you can bring in two players who were key pieces to a championship team, you do it. These are the type of moves that Heimo has needed for a while. Players that have skill, ambition, and championship pedigree. These two will bring exactly that as highly-demanding and accomplished players who will be motivated to make their way back to the very top where they were not long ago. I'd expect this team to be in the playoff hunt if all goes according to plan, with the potential to even make some noise if they can make it there. Last Dance (formerly Voittamaton) Last Season: Finished 4th in Regular Season standings, lost in Semifinals vs Parasite in 5 games IN: @NikkeDangles from Parasite @Puantso from Tiki Talk @Lxndstrom from EXEN OUT: @FlyerKungen to Golden Buffalos @Patzlaf to Golden Buffalos @temppanen to Mythix After multiple seasons of speculation and disappointing playoff exits, Last Dance decided to completely revamp most of its core for the first time in a while. As much as it may hurt, a shake-up for this team was needed. Formerly Voittamaton, Straikers, and Frolunda HC, the previous just wasn't able to get over the hump, as it had fallen in the Semifinals each of the last four seasons and last made the Finals in ECL '23, where it fell short to Tunnel Vision in both the Winter and Spring season. The departure of the most iconic duo in league history Eki and Patzlaf and a long-accomplished player in FlyerKungen is one that sent shockwaves around the league. The addition of NikkeDangles, who has been one of the best players in the scene for many, many years, caused even more. Puantso, a former long-time forward of this team, makes his return to the lineup after a short stint with TIKI TALK during the Winter campaign. This will give Eki - one of the league's most consistent players no matter the situation - a familiar face to pair with the new acquisition in Nikke at the wings. Is it actually the Last Dance? The team's name and the statement in its bio would suggest yet. Outside of NikkeDangles, this group has been long-starved for championship gold. Its last ECL Championship was in ECL 11. Time (apparently) is running out for this team to make it back to the top. Though it won't be easy, anything less than a Finals appearance would feel like a disappointment considering the circumstances. They'll hope that their "Last Dance" includes one more trophy. Mustaa Kultaa Last Season: Finished 3rd in Regular Season standings, lost in Elite Finals vs Parasite in 6 games IN: @Wpaanane from PANIC ON ICE @karlssonadam_ from Unwanted OUT: @xAaro89x to Parasite It's been a long time since we've seen a team rise as radially as Mustaa Kultaa has over the past two years. After the magical run and a great effort in the Elite Finals against Parasite, Mustaa Kultaa is back and hoping to make it one step further than it did in the Winter. A ton of credit has to got to Allupekkaz for the work he has done as the team's primary captain over the past year. It'll be interesting to see if they build on what was a dream debut season; especially considering that their leading scorer and point-getter, Aaro, transferred to Parasite over the offseason. Replacing him is wpaananen, who returns to the Elite division after a two-year stint with teams in the lower divisions. In his last Elite season in Spring 23, he finished fourth in the division in points with 71, helping lead JANO to a playoff birth and the division's third-highest scoring offense. Mustaa Kultaa did well with this acquisition considering the circumstances and how late in the offseason it was. This group also added another goalie in Karlssonadam, who was really able to prove himself in NHL 24 with Purification and Unwanted. It'll be interesting to see how the ECL 24 Winter Rookie of the Season will pair with last season's top rookie Latvex, as the two will likely split time despite both playing like unquestioned starters over the past year. We also have to note that the removal of golden abilities, particularly "One Tee", will be something to watch with this team, as it takes away what is a considerable part of Mustaa Kultaa's game. I’m sure that they will be able to adapt with this group having high-level players across the roster, but it's still something to keep in mind; especially during the earlier stages of the season. Though it'd be easy to view this team as "championship or bust" after falling just two wins short a season ago, I wouldn't expect them to surpass last season, nor would I put much pressure on them to do so. It's not that they aren't a playoff threat, but the only way this team could truly move up is by winning the championship, which feels like a considerable ask from a team that lost its most productive skater from its roster from a season ago. With that being said, this is still a team that can challenge for a Semifinals spot and potentially earn their way back into the Finals if everything clicks. Mythix Last Season: Finished 5th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Voittamaton in 5 games IN: @Sokkelo__ from Roots Gaming @temppanen from Last Dance (previously known as Voittamaton) @Akunkku from FA (Played ECL ’24 Spring in Heimo) OUT: @koleslaav_ to BLEGI @x-_-BoBi-_-x to EXEN @Valee__ to Almost Famous Coming into the season as the newly crowned Finnish champion, Mythix will look to carry over the momentum and form to the ECL season. This team has surprised some people as a consistent playoff threat in its first two Elite Division seasons; finishing 6th and 5th in the standings, but being bounced in the Quarterfinals each time. This season will be much different though than the last. Mythix returned all six of its starters for the Winter season, but lost multiple key players over the offseason and have undergone a significant roster revamp. Temppanen was one of the bigger additions in the offseason, as he joins Mythix after putting up 54 points and 27 goals with Voittamaton last season. He will replace Bobbi who has proven to be a high-productive forward with Mythix the last two seasons. The team also brought in Sokkelo who joins from the relegated, and now-defunct Roots Gaming team. Sokkelo is a good player who has unfortunately made history in the Elite Division for the wrong reasons unfortunately, as he has yet to make a single playoff appearance despite having 11 seasons in the Elite Division under his belt. Can he finally break the streak? This certainly felt like one of the best opportunities so far. As quietly as it's kept, he scored 32 goals last season with ranked sixth in the Elite division. Kunkku will join WeDux at defense and are hoping to prove themselves as a top defense pairing in the Division. They have shown that the potential is there and will be key if Mythix want to elevate to the next tier of teams within the division. This team and its form feel like it's improved over the past month. They brought in multiple skilled players and carried in more momentum than any team in the division to start the season. They even brought home their first trophy in club history. Now it's time for Mythix to take the next step in the ECL; proving themselves as a serious contender. NOVA Last Season: Competed in Pro Division, lost in Semifinals vs Blackbirds in 5 games, won Elite Relegation series vs Roots Gaming in 4 games IN: @Easychasniper2 from GOONS @Motzzyy from Renascor @LaxenHD from Unwanted OUT: @KingOfApes_ to Heimo @Nester4343 to Rusty X @letsgoat to Aspyre @XxKapUstaxX to MISSCLICK @Shaitan_Batyr to HC NAMOTKA After its best run as a club in the Pro Division last season, NOVA was able to break through and earn its way into the Elite division in their fourth season of competition. With promotion, however, comes the need for improvement, and NOVA got quite busy in the transfer window to try and make those improvements possible. Vlxddy and Dekko are the only skaters who remain from the previous season's promoted side, with Dekko moving himself to defense after spending last season at LW. Outside of the loss of KingOfApes, who was second on this team in points last season and led the team in assists. His departure will be considerable, as NOVA would've loved to have his experience and skill in their first season up, but the rest of its departures were players without previous prior Elite experience though, and their additions were all players who have played at this level for multiple seasons. Motzzyy will be a name to watch for NOVA. He'll likely be one of the more puck-dominant players in the league and looks to replace the production left behind by KingOfApes. He'll be a key part of NOVA's success this season. Easychasniper has the potential to be a great winger in this league. He's one of the best 1v1 players in Europe and his success in that scene has translated well to 6v6 so far. He comes over from GOONS after spending the prior two seasons at defense. It will be a significant adjustment for him, but the talent and potential are there. He will pair with another transfer in Laxen, who though playing just one game last season with Unwanted, was a solid player for Purification in his rookie season prior to that. This team feels like one of the more unpredictable groups in the field. With the additions they've made to their roster, they have the individual skill level to compete and play a high-tempo style of play. But is that enough in a long 30-game season? How much will their team game (on both ends) evolve and improve in that time period? That remains to be seen, but NOVA has the potential and the roster to potentially catch some people by surprise. ONSE Esports (formerly Ismon Valinta) Last Season: Competed in Pro Division, lost in Quarterfinals vs Blackbirds in 5 games, won Elite Qualifier vs Herlev Eagles in 4 games IN: @aJuti from Kolikot Esports @Sagee95 from RHYTIC @LucePro from Gotham Knights @Lakritsipiippu from DILAC @JoJuzz01 from FA OUT: @Ikavalko to Almost Famous @Jalkkin-- to Almost Famous @Hulkkoo to Almost Famous @xrikardo55 to Almost Famous @lycki10 to ROBE Esports @JoakimOilers to AFTERLIFE Earning it place in the Elite Division just days before the start of the season, ONSE Esports will look to make a name for itself in the ECL's top tier. Formerly Ismon Valinta, this group is captained by Jusu121 and have competed in the ECL 23 Spring season, where they began in the Core division. They spent the last two seasons in the Pro division and despite being just the 13th seed, made a run to the Quarterfinals before being ousted by Blackbirds, the eventual champions. Considering the amount of roster turnover that we saw from this team over the offseason, with five players entering and six exiting, ONSE Esports is presented with a unique challenge. Not only will they have to make th adjustment to the Elite division as a team with zero Elite experience on its roster, but it will also have to adapt to each other, as just three players return from last season's Ismon Valinta team. On a positive note, ONSE do return its to leading goal scorers from last season in Jusu and Puosu, who combined for 44 of Ismon Valinta's 82 goals during the regular season. They also have some positive momentum heading into the season, as not only did they win the qualifier to earn their spot into Elite, but they also had an impressive FCL run on top of it. ONSE Esports finished first in their Group which included an Elite division team in TIKI TALK (much of Vapor's roster was on that team). They eventually made it to Round 3 of the playoffs before being eliminated by Lemmenvelhot. Admittedly, it's tough to truly predict where the ceiling for this team could be with there being so many unknowns. They have multiple talented players from the Pro ranks, but lack experience at this level and were a mid-pack team in their group in the Pro Division last season, and it's not often that a team in that situation stays in Elite for very long. I don't think it means that they can't, as we saw TIKI TALK manage to stay up and even compete for a playoff spot despite similar circumstances, but the lack of experience that ONSE is a real concern. Their goal will be similar to many first-time teams in the division. Grow, be competitive, and fight to stay out of the relegation zone. If ONSE Esports can do that, their first season in the division will be considered a successful one. Parasite Last Season: Finished 1st in Regular Season standings, ECL Elite Division Champions IN: @xAaro89x from Mustaa Kultaa OUT: @NikkeDangles to Last Dance The defending champions are back and return the majority of their dominant core from a season ago. Their one loss however was the biggest of any team this season. The departure of NikkeDangles is a significant one. He's one of the best players in the world and has been a key part of the team since ECL 11, winning multiple championships and individual awards in the process. Despite the change though, Parasite was able to replace one of the scene's best forwards with another, acquiring Aaro from Mustaa Kultaa, who Parasite faced in last season's Finals at Assembly Winter. Aaro was a key piece to Mustaa Kultaa's magical Winter season and proved that he belongs among the top players of the Elite division, notching a career-best 69 points and 40 goals. He will be switching from LW to RW this season, which is notable considering that he has played on the left side for his entire 6s career. We will see how quickly he can make the adjustment, though playing with fellow MVP-level talents in Beniittto and Vattu will certainly ease that transition. Outside of this, it was an uneventful offseason, which is a great thing for a defending champion. Parasite did lose 2-3 in the Finnish championship Final against Mythix over the weekend, though with a different RW and ruleset (no abilities allowed to be used). It would be unfair to expect them to match their performance from last season. Parasite won 27 of their 28 games in the regular season and finished it as the highest-scoring team in Elite division history, putting up a mind-lowing 5.32 goals for per game. In the playoffs, they never went further than six games in a series and defeated three totally different styles of teams and some of the better players in the scene on those rosters. Parasite are the championship favorites until proven otherwise. Polski Boys Last Season: Finished 9th in Regular Season standings IN: - OUT: - As weird as it is, I could almost copy and paste what I typed in last season's preview and it would apply. Polski Boys are still looking for their breakthrough moment in the Elite Division, finishing in no-man’s land in each of their first three seasons, but steadily improving during their time in the ECL's highest tier. Few teams have had more roster continuity than Polski Boys. They return their entire lineup from last season's team and they only made one move prior to the Winter season, adding Tunkeilija. Last season this team finished 8th in the division in both goals for and goals against; all while flexing the league's best PK at 95.8%. Despite statically being one of the Top 8 teams last season, Polski Boys missed the playoff cutline by just three points, as they fell down the table at the end of the season after finishing 4-5-1 in their last 10 games, while EXEN, Mythix and The Black Jacks all passed them in the standings. This team is experienced, together and has steadily improved since winning the Pro Division title in ECL 23 Spring. They've been widely predicted to make the playoffs for the last two seasons, but just not been able to get over that line, is it finally time? It feels like it has to be. If not, questions will begin to form on whether this group will ever be able to become a playoff team without a significant shake up to the roster. SSK ESPORTS Last Season: Competed in Pro Division, lost in Finals vs Blackbirds in 4 games, won Elite Relegation series vs Falun Coal Miners in 5 games IN: @bystrom___ from Unwanted @Demski_ from Serpentes OUT: @jojjep- to vNexs Academy @Jonte05_ to vNexs Three months ago, no one would've predicted that SSK ESPORTS would be playing in the Elite Division. The Swedish lineup made the Pro Division playoffs by just one point after ending the regular season with a 7-2-1 record in their last 10 games. During their postseason run, they knocked off three of the top eight teams, including the #1 overall seed and a former Elite division team. Their Cinderella run came to an end in the Finals via a sweep, but they were able to earn their way into the Elite division the next week by knocking off Falun Coal Miners in a relegation series; giving SSK their first Elite season in club history. This team will need for that magic to be replicated, as four of its starters from that run have returned this season. They made an experienced addition to their defense in Bystrom, who was a steady defender for Purification two seasons ago before playing eight games as a forward with Unwanted last season. Outside of Bystrom, the only other players on the roster with Elite division experience are Rubituss and Demski. Rubituss spent three seasons with Farjestad BK and two seasons with HV71. His most recent season in the division was in ECL 24 Spring with Purification, where he and Bystrom were teammates. He'll be slotting in at center for this team. Demski spent two seasons in Elite with HV71 during the ECL 22 Winter and Spring season. He played eight games last season with Sepentes in the Pro division and will slot in at forward for this team. He's played sparingly over the last few seasons, but is familiar with the competition level and will be a welcome piece to the team's forward group. Though few will view this team as a playoff threat, the expectation for this group should be to continue growing and improving while adjusting to Elite division competition; giving them the opportunity to avoid relegation and build on their progress for ECL 26. The Black Jacks Last Season: Finished 6th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Mustaa Kultaa in 5 games IN: @ProfaneKiss from Deadly Phantoms @Houddel_RBM from Red Bull Munich eSports OUT: @kkostiiii to Almost Famous @Keuschemisch After three consecutive seasons of making the playoffs, The Black Jacks are back after falling in the Quarterfinals last season and undergoing a turbulent, and controversial end to their season. Though the group has become an established playoff team and is coming off of its best regular season finish in Elite, they enter the Spring season without their most creative and maybe feared offensive player in Keuschemisch; putting this experienced Central European powerhouse into quite an interesting position. Losing Kermit takes away TBJ's most consistent and productive player, as he led The Black Jacks in points in each of the last four seasons. Replacing Keuschemisch this season is ProfaneeKiss, an experienced player who was a long-time staple for Deadly Phantoms for many years. Though many of the Phantoms' recent seasons were in the Pro Division, Profane has some Elite Division experience, playing at this level in ECL 9, 10, and 11. He also put up multiple 60+ point seasons at forward during his time in Pro for a team that though wasn't able to make its way back to the Elite division during his time there, did get close several times. Along with the loss of Kermit is the team's starting goaltender from last season, Kosti, who departs to Almost Famous in the Pro Division after posting a 79.6sv% and starting every game for the team last season. His shoes will be filled by rookie goalie THE EAGLE, who spent a few seasons with HC Lugano eSports before transferring to The Black Jacks midseason after just four games in the Pro Division. This team also has plenty of form going for them, as they're still currently participating in the German Championship Playoffs and had an undefeated regular season in Division I. The Black Jacks have a certain style of play, but Keuschemisch was able to put his own spark into it and make it work which certainly was shown in the results. This will be a significant gameplay adjustment for TBJ to undergo, and it'll take more than just Profane to make up for the loss of Keuschemisch's production. If they can do it, they'll be a fringe playoff team again. If not, then it could see their season end in no man's land. Tohtorit Last Season: Finished 2nd in Regular Season standings, lost in Semifinals vs Mustaa Kultaa in 5 games IN: - OUT: - Last season, Tohtorit proved that the ECL 24 Spring season was no fluke. This team is legit, and are likely here to stay. They finished in the Top 4 in the regular season for each of the past two seasons and won their first playoff series in the Elite division after knocking out EXEN in January's Winter season quarterfinals. Combine that with their run to the Semifinals in the FCL (fell to the eventual champions Mythix), and Tohtorit have proven that they belong in the conversation of Europe's top teams. In terms of play style, Tohtorit plays compact, shutdown defense and pair it with one of the best goalies in Europe with Stammer, who won Goaltender of the Season in the Winter. Offensively, they are able to either counter very fast, or fully reset and take their time with possession. They're able to frustrate many high-puck possession teams and have unpredictable forwards who utilize deception to create quality scoring chances. They also have Kkarkas on defense, who has proven to be one of the best puck-handling defensemen in the league, as he led the division in time with the puck last season with over 200 minutes. He also finished second in that state in the Spring 24 season, placing only behind Tombo. Tohorit made zero roster changes for the second offseason in a row and has as much chemistry as any team in the Division. They've proven that they can consistently in this division and have done so well beating other top teams. Tohtorit should be squarely in the championship conversation come playoff time and should aim for another Top 4 finish in the regular season. Vapor (formerly TIKI TALK) Last Season: Finished 10th in Regular Season standings IN: @dzouvi from FA @Nieppii from Vizio @Jemmuuu from Gotham Knights OUT: @itspardytime to HC Lugano eSports @TeMeX to Kokemus Puuttuu @Puantso to Last Dance After a strong return to the Elite division and a great end of the regular season to secure 10th, Vapor hopes to take the next step in their return to prominence; earning its way into a playoff spot for the Spring. This team had unfortunately had one of the more impactful departures of the offseason in longtime captain ItsPardyTime, who currently sits as a free agent and likely seems to be stepping away for the season. Pardy was a critical key to the group's success last season and was the heart and soul of TIKI TALK for many seasons. He had a career season in the Elite Division with 75 points, 33 goals, and 42 assists; which each ranked Top 5 in the division and earned him Comeback Player of the Season honors, as well as being a nominee for Forward of the Season. Along with Pardy's departure was TeMex, who was the team's second-leading point-getter at 54 points. Losing these two forwards is a considerable loss for a team that was tied for third in the division in goals per game at 3.11, so this will be the biggest question mark for them this season. Vapor was able to acquire Vesa Pompa's long-time servant and a highly skilled center in Dzouvi, who returns after taking last season off. Expect him to likely be in the running for Comeback Player of the Season. Searching for a new home alongside the other experienced winger Nieppii, who after his comeback to the scene hasn’t really found a long-term home yet. He spent last season with Vizio in the Pro division and will play his first season in Elite since ECL 23 Spring when he was with Växjö Lakers. They also added Jemmu to the roster. The 17-year-old rookie only has 1 ECL season under his belt which was in Pro, but he played with TIKI TALK in the recent FCL and was impressive through his 16 games, putting up 59 points. Vapor's fate this season will likely be decided by whether or not it can improve defensively and/or replicate its offensive production from last season despite losing its top two forwards. Despite being one of the division's highest-scoring teams, TIKI TALK was also one of its worst teams in its own end, allowing 3.46 goals per game. Only Root Gaming and Falun Coal Miners allowed more, and both were relegated at the end of the season. They were able to add some proven names to its roster which is encouraging, but with many of them being new to each other, we will have to wait and see how quickly they can mesh. This feels like a team that can either make the playoffs, or end up in a relegation battle depending on the answers that they give to these questions. vNexs (formerly Vesa Pompa) Last Season: Finished 11th in Regular Season standings IN: @iSvamp from FA @Ttv_ahnbergs99 from Bjorkloven Esport OUT: @Eken45jr to Golden Buffalos @SebbeLarsen86 to FA vNexs is an interesting team for a lot of reasons. The past two seasons have been a bit of a disappointment for Vesa Pompa. They haven't been a bottom-of-the-barrel team, but they've found themselves stuck in mediocrity as of late; finishing 12th and 11th in the ECL 24 Spring and ECL 25 Winter season. On top of that, two of its most experienced players, the team's long-time captain Eken and SebbeLarson are both no longer with the team. It doesn't mean that this team doesn't have talent, as it return four of its starters from a season ago, including two of its three forwards vNexs' revamped backline will be the biggest story to follow this season. Vesa Pompa allowed 3.04 goals per game last season, so they will hope that a new pairing and a new brand will help them improve in that area. Ahnbergs, the 14 year-old phenomenon, will be a player to watch. The young Swedish defenseman makes the jump to the Elite division after an impressive Pro campaign with Bjorkloven Esport last season. If he's in the lineup consistently, look out for him to be contender for Rookie of the Season. He'll pair up with iSvamp, who joins the team as a free agent after taking the Winter season off. He was a key piece to the Leksands IF team that made it to the Pro Division finals in ECL 23 Winter before falling to Tohtorit. He's played sparingly in the Neo division since, but he has multiple seasons of Elite division experience, last playing in ECL 9 with Miracle, so he should provide a steady, veteran presence with the young rookie by his side. This team is a bit of a mystery and slow starts to the season have plagued them in each of the past two campaigns. It'll be important for this team to collect points consistently rather than play catch-up like they've had to in the two seasons prior. If they can do that, then they have the talent to be in the playoff race at season end, but they will need to show some improvement from what we've seen from them over the past calendar year. Predictions # @Mozjayh (Excluding Heimo) @bMaJuH 1 Parasite Parasite 2 Last Dance Last Dance 3 EXEN Tohtorit 4 Mythix Mustaa Kultaa 5 Tohtorit EXEN 6 Mustaa Kultaa Mythix 7 Blackbirds Heimo 8 Polski Boys The Black Jacks 9 The Black Jacks Polski Boys 10 vNexs Vapor 11 N0VA Blackbirds 12 Vapor vNexs 13 GOONS N0VA 14 ONSE ESPORTS GOONS 15 SSK ONSE ESPORTS 16 - SSK ECL Elite Format: 1 Group - 16 Teams Team license required: Yes Player license required: Yes Gamedays: Mon, Wed & Thu Regular season starts: 7.4 Transfer deadline: 25.4 23:59 CET ⚠️ Regular season ends: 8.5 Playoffs (BO7) Quarterfinals Monday 26.5 - 20:00 CET | 4vs5 & 1vs8 | Games 1-2 Wednesday 28.5 - 20:00 CET | 3vs6 & 2vs7 | Games 1-2 Thursday 29.5 - 19:30 CET | 4vs5 & 1vs8 | Games 3-4 Sunday 1.6 - 19:30 CET | 3vs6 & 2vs7 | Games 3-4 Monday 2.6 - 19:30 CET | 4vs5 & 1vs8 | Games 5-7 Wednesday 4.6- 19:30 CET | 3vs6 & 2vs7 | Games 5-7 Semifinals Sunday 8.6 - 20:00 CET | 2vs3 & 1vs4 | Games 1-2 Monday 9.6 - 19:30 CET | 1vs4 | Games 3-7 Wednesday 11.6 - 18:30 CET | 2vs3 | Games 3-7 Finals Saturday 14.6 - TBC Want to keep up with everything happening ECL in the this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to SportsGamerGG on Twitch, YouTube and X.

As the regular season comes to an end, it's time to analyze how each team performed and what to expect in the upcoming playoffs. The competition was fierce, with teams battling for the top spots and securing their place in the postseason. From dominant offensive powerhouses to strong defensive squads, every team brought something unique to the ice. This season was exhilarating as WECL 4 introduced many new teams from different countries, making the competition more diverse and unpredictable than ever before. With fresh talent and unique playstyles, these new teams challenged the established powerhouses and added an extra layer of intensity to the league. In this article, we’ll break down the key statistics, highlight the best performers, and assess each playoff team’s chances of winning the championship. Which team has the best shot at the title? Let’s dive into the numbers and find out.   Top Performers of the Season  Owned Hexa (1st place) Owned Hexa dominated the regular season with 19 wins in 24 games, securing 45 points. Their goal-scoring ability was outstanding, with 131 goals (5.46 goals per game), while their defense remained solid, allowing only 52 goals (2.17 goals per game). Their strong penalty kill (82%) and power play efficiency (22.22%) were crucial in maintaining their top position. Best player on the team: #10 Super @Ryan68lmt Ryry Points: 97 (51 goals, 46 assists) An elite scorer who leads offensively, providing both exceptional goal-scoring and valuable assists, making him a decisive factor in nearly every game. Shooting Percentage: 50% Demonstrates remarkable precision and finishing capability, turning half of his shot attempts into goals and consistently maximizing scoring chances. Hits: 143 Dominates physically, regularly imposing his presence on opponents, significantly influencing game momentum and creating opportunities through his aggressive play. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 61/221 Effectively maintains puck control, frequently reclaiming possession and minimizing turnovers, showcasing reliability in critical moments.    Three Stars (2nd place) Three Stars finished just behind Owned Hexa with 43 points. They had a slightly better goal-scoring rate (5.75 GF/GP) but conceded more goals (2.17 GA/GP). Their power play was a major advantage, operating at 36.36%, the best in the league. Strong faceoff performance (55.93%) helped them control possession. Best player on the team: #8 Juris @snipeLVcelly8 Lopatko Points: 77 (30 goals, 47 assists) A strong scoring presence coupled with notable playmaking ability, contributing consistently on offense. Shooting Percentage: 33.7% Demonstrates precision and effectiveness, reliably capitalizing on scoring chances. Hits: 58 Provides solid physical play, regularly challenging opponents and making his presence felt. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 46/154 Exhibits responsible puck management, effectively gaining possession while limiting turnovers.    Pirates eSports (3rd place) Pirates eSports secured third place with 42 points. They had a balanced offense and defense, scoring 150 goals (6.25 GF/GP) while allowing 63 goals (2.63 GA/GP). Their special teams were efficient, with a 27.03% power play success rate and a solid penalty kill of 87.23%. Best player on the team:  #68 Adrien @AdriF_23 Frinkelin Points: 115 (59 goals, 56 assists) Dominant offensive force whose impressive goal-scoring combines seamlessly with exceptional playmaking, making him pivotal in the team's attack. Shooting Percentage: 41.8% Exceptionally accurate shooter who consistently turns shots into goals, maximizing offensive opportunities. Hits: 66 Provides dependable physical play, contributing actively to the team's physical presence and disrupting opponents effectively. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 54/258 Reliable puck handler who regularly regains possession, strengthening the team's control during crucial phases of play.    Silver Sword Griffins (4th place) The Silver Sword Griffins showcased a solid all-around performance with 36 points. Their defense was strong, allowing just 59 goals (2.46 GA/GP), while their offense was effective at 4.71 GF/GP. Their penalty kill was among the best in the league (87.5%). Best player on the team: #17 Kristaps @CapinsH-LV Zirg-Abols Points: 79 (40 goals, 39 assists) A versatile offensive talent, delivering balanced scoring and playmaking, consistently sparking the team's attack. Shooting Percentage: 33.3% A reliable scorer, efficiently turning shooting opportunities into valuable goals, reflecting his accuracy under pressure. Hits: 38 Plays a disciplined physical game, effectively challenging opponents while maintaining strategic positioning. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 52/175 Consistent at winning back possession, skillfully managing puck control, and limiting turnovers to enhance team stability.    Pylsais (5th place) Pylsais finished with 28 points, showing a decent offensive output of 4.25 GF/GP. However, their defense struggled, conceding 3.29 goals per game. Their power play (42.86%) was the most effective in the league, but their penalty kill (79.41%) was not as reliable. Best player on the team: #95 Sweini @Sweini999 Rohdonski Points: 72 (17 goals, 55 assists) An elite playmaker who significantly boosts his team’s offensive power, effectively setting up scoring chances with exceptional vision. Shooting Percentage: 21% A dependable shooter who converts his opportunities efficiently, capitalizing consistently during critical game moments. Hits: 39 Contributes strategically through targeted physical play, actively disrupting opponents without compromising his positioning. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 65/193 Demonstrates excellent puck control, reliably reclaiming possession and minimizing errors, enhancing his team’s ability to maintain offensive pressure.    Valence Hockey (6th place) Valence Hockey had a balanced season with 27 points. Their goal-scoring was average (3.25 GF/GP), but their defense was stable, allowing only 3.13 goals per game. Their penalty kill (90.91%) was a key factor in their success. Best player on the team: #58 - @ChakaFR Dylan Points: 56 (31 goals, 25 assists) A dynamic forward with excellent scoring instincts, adept at finding the net himself and creating opportunities for teammates. Shooting Percentage: 32.6% Highly efficient shooter who regularly capitalizes on opportunities, demonstrating precision and confidence in front of goal. Hits: 31 Delivers focused physical play, effectively applying pressure and challenging opponents to gain strategic advantages. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 64/192 Shows disciplined puck handling, consistently reclaiming possession and carefully managing the puck to limit turnovers.    Wildcats esport I (7th place) Wildcats esport I finished with 26 points, relying on a decent offense (3.83 GF/GP) but a weaker defense (3.46 GA/GP). Their penalty kill (71.11%) was one of the worst in the league, which could be a concern in the playoffs. Best player on the team: #8 Maximilien @multimiliar88 Haller Points: 63 (30 goals, 33 assists) An impactful forward with balanced offensive output, excelling equally at scoring and setting up teammates for success. Shooting Percentage: 26.8% Reliable accuracy, consistently turning shot attempts into meaningful goals, enhancing his team's scoring depth. Hits: 102 Plays with noticeable physicality, often shifting momentum through strong and effective body checks. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 49/223 Demonstrates solid puck-handling discipline, efficiently regaining control and minimizing costly turnovers.    Brothers in Gaming (8th place) Brothers in Gaming secured the last playoff spot with 25 points. They had a strong offensive game (3.58 GF/GP) but struggled defensively (3.79 GA/GP). Their penalty kill (77.14%) was not the strongest, but they compensated with physical play, leading the league in hits (946). Best player on the team: #98 Jean-Michel  @Xx_Vador_98 PROBEURRE Points: 62 (29 goals, 33 assists) Consistently contributes to the offense with a balanced ability to score and generate key opportunities for teammates. Shooting Percentage: 35.4% A highly efficient shooter who capitalizes regularly on scoring chances, displaying strong finishing ability. Hits: 15 Engages in precise, tactical physical play, effectively disrupting opponents without sacrificing defensive coverage. Takeaways/Giveaways (TA/GA): 50/260 Manages puck possession responsibly, effectively recovering control and minimizing turnovers to sustain offensive momentum.   Teams That Missed the Playoffs The bottom teams, including EKH GLEBOGRYZARKA, HC UKRAINE, Hawks HC, HK Bricks, and Brothers in Gaming 2, were unable to secure playoff spots due to poor offensive output and inconsistent defensive play. These teams struggled with scoring, with HC UKRAINE and Brothers in Gaming 2 posting the lowest goals per game (2.21 and 1.67, respectively).   Playoff Teams Analysis by ChatGPT: Owned Hexa (1st) Strength: Best defensive record (52 GA), consistent gameplay (82% PK), and highly disciplined (low PIM: 100). Key Player: LvExT4ZzYLVv6810, with high points (97) and extraordinary shot accuracy (50%).    Three Stars (2nd) Strength: Balanced attack (138 GF), physical play (267 Hits), high face-off win rate (55.93%). Key Player: JurajLV, highly efficient (77 points, balanced offense-defense).    Pirates eSports (3rd) Strength: Highest offensive output (150 GF), aggressive (456 Hits), strong special teams (87.23% PK). Key Player: AdriF_29, league-top points (115) and dominant offensively.    Silver Sword Griffins (4th) Strength: Strong power-play (39.53%), balanced defense (59 GA), reliable physicality (345 Hits). Key Player: CapinsH-LV, reliable scorer (79 points).    Pylsais (5th) Strength: Decent offensive/defensive balance, strong hits (448), average special teams. Key Player: Sweinii999, dominant playmaker (72 points).     Valence Hockey (6th) Strength: Disciplined special teams (90.91% PK), physical (393 hits). Key Player: Chaaka-_-, solid scorer (56 points).    Wildcats esport (7th) Strength: Moderate special teams performance, balanced hits (389). Key Player: multimiliar88, physical offensive threat (63 points).    Brothers In Gaming (8th) Strength: High physicality (313 Hits), balanced in special teams, but struggle offensively. Key Player: Xx_Vador_98, team’s reliable offensive player (62 points).   Playoffs Prediction: Quarterfinals (1/4): Owned Hexa (1) vs Brothers In Gaming (8) Winner: Owned Hexa (4-1) Owned Hexa’s superior defense and offense easily overcome Brothers In Gaming. Three Stars (2) vs Wildcats esport (7) Winner: Three Stars (4-2) Three Stars' balanced attack, led by JurajLV, neutralizes Wildcats' moderate offense. Pirates eSports (3) vs Valence Hockey (6) Winner: Pirates eSports (4-0) Pirates' dominant offensive line overwhelms Valence Hockey swiftly. Silver Sword Griffins (4) vs Pylsais (5) Winner: Silver Sword Griffins (4-3) Close, physical series; Griffins’ special teams edge helps secure victory in game 7.   Semifinals (1/2): Owned Hexa (1) vs Silver Sword Griffins (4) Winner: Owned Hexa (4-2) Owned Hexa’s disciplined and structured gameplay withstands Griffins’ physical style. Three Stars (2) vs Pirates eSports (3) Winner: Pirates eSports (4-3) High-scoring and tightly contested series; AdriF_29’s offensive dominance clinches a game 7 victory. Finals: Owned Hexa (1) vs Pirates eSports (3) Winner: Pirates eSports (4-3) The finals go the distance; Pirates' relentless attack, driven by AdriF_29, narrowly outpaces Owned Hexa’s structured defense to secure the championship. Reasoning: Although Owned Hexa has a slightly stronger defense, Pirates eSports’ overwhelming offensive firepower (150 GF), coupled with the highest individual scorer, AdriF_29 (115 points), gives them a critical advantage. Pirates’ aggressive playing style (456 hits) can pressure Owned Hexa’s disciplined defense, creating turnovers and scoring opportunities. AdriF_29’s elite scoring ability could ultimately prove decisive in high-pressure playoff games, giving Pirates eSports the edge in an intense, closely contested series. 🏆 ChatGPT Predicted Champion: Pirates eSports (4-3) 

Today it's finally time to crown ECL '25: Winter - Elite Champions and therefore we will also give recognition again to individuals who had bthe rightest performances throughout this season. This season our nominees were selected by our council including writers, staff, and casters who have been observing the accomplishments of our teams and players precisely. It's time to make your voice heard! Who deserves these awards? Tell us your personal favorites or even hot takes below or on social media @SportsGamerGG #ECL25Winter Winners will be announced today on the ECL Elite Finals Broadcast, starting at 18:00 CET at https://twitch.tv/SportsGamerGG! Below you'll find a list of nominees in each category: Forward of The Season The Top Forward award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their forward position. Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen, Parasite Aaro @xAaro89x Arvala, Mustaa Kultaa @itspardytime, TIKI TALK Perttu @Beniittto Kemppainen, Parasite Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen, Parasite Defender of The Season The Top Defender award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their defenseman position. Oliver @Pensasmies Litokorpi, TIKI TALK Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila, Parasite Tomi @txmbo999 Laitinen, Parasite Mico @Miseee96 Pulli, Mustaa Kultaa Niklas @xPsykoSkills Schmitz, The Black Jacks Goalie of The Season The Top Goalie award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their goaltender position. Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen, Parasite Stan @Stammer70 Adamus, Tohtorit Veeti @LatveX Laitinen, Mustaa Kultaa Johannes @Gresu__ Gressmann, Renascor Sebastian @FINSeRe Remes, Parasite Rookie of The Season The Rookie Of The Season award is awarded to a player in their rookie ECL Elite season, who has excelled above the competition regardless of position. Veeti @LatveX Laitinen, Mustaa Kultaa Oliver @Pensasmies Litokorpi, TIKI TALK Leo @Lekxsa_70 Hämäläinen, GOONS J-J @NuariJamal Raatikainen, Mustaa Kultaa Aleksi @xSnaipperi Honka, Heimo Transfer of The Season The Transfer Of The Season award is awarded to a player who after a transfer is deemed to have been the most impactful player for their new team. Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen, Parasite Aaro @xAaro89x Arvala, Mustaa Kultaa Eetu @Launonexx Launonen, Mustaa Kultaa Tomi @txmbo999 Laitinen, Parasite Jimi @J-_-Jamaltheman Rönkkönen, Voittamaton Comeback Player of The Season The Comeback Player Of The Season award is awarded to a player who after one or more seasons away from ECL Elite competition, makes an impactful comeback to the highest level. Teemu @Teme Sainio, TIKI TALK Juuso @Xkeineri Latvala, GOONS Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen, Parasite Jimi @J-_-Jamaltheman Rönkkönen, Voittamaton @itspardytime, TIKI TALK

The PLAYOFFS are back! The regular season has come to an end, and thus begins the best time of the year. In this article, we'll cover all the Pro matchups in a short review, we'll highlight some players, and get predictions from a few players in the ECL division framework. The 1st round has some interesting matchups, and we'll see an intense week of hard-fought battles. Some matchups are going to be closer than others, and some will have their playoff hopes cut short. Puck Over Glass vs Rusty X This matchup has the potential to be the upset of the season. Rusty made the playoffs by a thin margin. Now they face an opponent that has the division's leading goalscorer @Hydeee_24 who is continuing to impress, @Lotiseva has also been impressive, netting 44 goals in the regular season. If Rusty can silence these two, they'll stand a chance in the upcoming series. Last year, we saw an upset from the 8th-seeded Herlev Eagles taking down regular-season champs Dilac, which proves that once the playoffs start, anything is possible. For Rusty X, their star forwards need to step up, @Nester4343 can be a difference maker when it matters, but if he decides to have an offday, their playoffs might just be cut short. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: Puck Over Glass in 4 @1mmu9: Puck Over Glass in 5 @Bipes_bip0rus Puck Over Glass in 5 @MCH_98: Puck Over Glass in 4   Carpe Diem vs Aspyre Carpe Diem surprised a lot of teams this season with their style of play. They managed to steal some important points this season to get that 2nd place in group 1. They now face Aspyre in the 1st round, who is eager to win their 1st playoff series ever. Aspyres struggled in the regular season; they couldn't string together wins to create some momentum, lost important points to lower-seeded teams, but stole points from higher-seeded teams, so it'll be interesting to see how this matchup plays out. @koleslaav_ & @Jondeezz will be the top guys for Aspyre to watch, whilst @priima-namu(FeikkiNambo) is a guy who can steal games for Aspyre, he needs to be on his game if Aspyre wants to advance to the next round. For Carpe Diem, the playmaking of @Bipes_bip0rus and the breakout passes of @Datsyykki13 will be what sets them apart from Aspyre. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: Plays for Aspyre @1mmu9: Aspyre in 7 @Bipes_bip0rus: Plays for Carpe Diem @MCH_98: Aspyre in 7   Greatest vs Deadly Phantoms For a matchup in the playoffs, a team dependent on their defense and counters versus a team that scored the most goals in the regular season will be a great watch, the dynamic Greatest versus the resiliant Deadly Phantoms series will be a good watch for those who want to know more about the game and how to be better, this series will feature highly skilled players and a team that knows what it takes to win. In the case of Greatest, their offense is the key, if they score more than their opponent it doesn't matter how many goals they conceede, captain @Fin_S1su has had a tough start with a 79% save percentage and a tad over 3 conceeded goal per game, but he has the ability to steal games, and Greatest has the starpower to get it done offensively. Deadly Phantoms, on the other hand, are one of the best defensive teams in the Pro Division and will make it tough for Greatest to get their flow going. If the German side can frustrate their opponents early on in the series, they might just take the win home. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: Greatest in 6 @1mmu9: Greatest in 5 @Bipes_bip0rus: Greatest in 5 @MCH_98: Greatest in 6   MoDo Hockey vs xBots Honest Finland vs Sweden matchup, both teams have what it takes to light up the scoreboard. In this series, the team with better defensive tendencies and consistency is key. MoDo, who boast the best penalty kill in the division at 94.12%, hopes to stay out of the box as much as possible, but knows that if needed, they can count on their PK guys, while xBots has an average power play at 22.22%, which is no reason for MoDo to try their luck. MoDo also has the advantage of being good offensively while also being responsible in their own zone, highly talented @Mathiasgamer_07 and @Sebastian Axelsson(axelzonee) put up 88 and 87 points, which puts them 2nd and 4th in the division for those categories. xBots on the other hand relies heavily on their team play, they have the same guys (almost) as the season prior when they got relegated from the Elite division, and now have their sights set on returning, @sopulii_ who has struggled in the faceoff dot at 48% needs to get his team together for the playoffs and play their best games of the season, this MoDo team is not going down easily. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: MoDo in 5 @1mmu9: xBots in 6 @Bipes_bip0rus: xBots in 7 @MCH_98: xBots in 5   Finnish Roosters vs Otukset A number one seed from the group stage always comes with big expectations, and Finnish Roosters is no exception, against a great team in Otukset, who struggled in the regular season with consistency, will now have an uphill battle after playing in the Elite qualifiers ahead of the season. The Roosters who have played together for a long time have a clear system, they play to their strengths and have amazing chemistry within the team, and more experience from playing in big moments, now comes the time to put up or shut up, @imosi who led the team this season in points 87 (46+41) is their go-to guy when they need goals, but their league leading defense is what sets them apart, and goalie @Z0mbie Zyndr0me who is playing in his first season in net has been playing insanely well with a 84.49% save percentage. Otukset still have a dangerous team; their roster is filled with guys who have played together for a while now, and when they get their groove going, they can be a hard team to stop, but the question is, will they get it going early enough to take down the Group 2 winners? @juhkis96 will need to get out his bag of tricks and see if they still have what it takes. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: Otukset in 6 @1mmu9: Roosters in 6 @Bipes_bip0rus: Otukset in 6 @MCH_98: Otukset in 7 F0CUS vs SSK Prospects This matchup on paper heavily favours F0CUS, with all major stat lines going in their favour. SSK will need a crucial step up in their power play if they want to give themselves a better chance at this series. They have the worst powerplay percentage in the whole league, with 4.17%, facing the second-best penalty kill in the league from FOCUS, with 93.75%, while also having the least amount of penalty minutes (32). SSK does still have some firepower with @Disctrasan- being their leading goal scorer during the regular season with 27 goals, averaging 0,9 goals per game. If he can step up and the rest of SSK can find another step, they could see themselves with a slimmer of hope. If SSK is looking to cause an upset, they would need to majorly step up their offensive game and hope that FOCUS can’t keep up their offensive scoring from the regular season, but highly unlikely. @MCH_98 who tied for the lead in points (53) with @LeiskaViis7 & @localhefe has been as steady as always, but now taking his offensive game to another level. Captain @jm98II left this washed reporter with no comments ahead of their series with the Swedes; ice in his veins will be crucial for F0CUS this post-season. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: F0CUS in 4 @1mmu9: F0CUS in 5 @Bipes_bip0rus: F0CUS in 4 @MCH_98: Plays for F0CUS NOSTREETSPORTS vs POGGERS NOSTREET came out flying this season, after a season away, they picked up right where they left off, into the playoffs against POGGERS, who didn't have the best regular season but still managed to get an ok seed. They have all the tools to win this series and advance to the quarterfinals. @Bot_hene who managed to get a solid roster this season has managed to up his own game, putting up 72 points (28+44) whilst rocking a supreme 54.5% the faceoff circle, the captain leads by example on both sides of the ice as POGGERS are a tough team to beat. POGGERS, who are still a force to be reckoned with this season, managed to put up a respectable amount of goals again this year, averaging 3.27 goals per game. It could be tough for NOSTREET, who isn't known for their great defence, so expect @JaKurrii to be his old self and dominate games. Expect high-scoring games and not a whole lot of defense. Predictions: Hifk_FANI: NOSTREET in 5 @1mmu9: Plays for NOSTREET @Bipes_bip0rus: NOSTREET in 7 @MCH_98: NOSTREET in 7   vNexs ll vs Unique Both teams followed the same trend this season, both have gotten better as the season has progressed, and an even series is a lock, but who wins will come down to pure nerves as both teams possess incredible skill and the needed talent to play the game the right way. vNexs surprised a lot of teams with their skill level this season, they have a roster of both young talent and veteran experience and youngster @Maaacki(maxboee) has been able to take his game to another level this season, hitting the 30 goal mark along with 38 assists to lead the team, if he can find another gear in the playoffs it's goodbye Unique. But Unique has their own set of talent, so don't count them out, with a veteran presence like @LE1PAKONE (nordzman) on defense in the Pro division, the longtime Elite defender must have a trick up his sleeves in these playoffs, and with @Jakeexh exploding this season 84 points (43+41), there isn't a whole lot for them to worry about, a rock hard powerplay for Unique at 35% in the regular season could be theri bread and butter, if vNexs finds themself often in the box this series might just not see past 4 games.   Predictions: Hifk_FANI: vNexs in 5 @1mmu9: Unique in 6 @Bipes_bip0rus: Unique in 6 @MCH_98: Unique in 6

Hello, ECL Community! The debate around X-Factors, abilities, and player builds in competitive EASHL continues to be one of the most discussed topics within our community. Over the past month after the NHL 26 release, we’ve followed your conversations closely — in Discord threads, party chats, and private messages — and we want to thank everyone who has contributed to this discussion. This season, our goal has been twofold: To maintain a fair and consistent competitive environment for all divisions, and To strengthen alignment with our North American counterparts so that competitive 6v6 hockey moves forward together on both sides of the Atlantic. We’ve been in regular contact with our North American counterparts to share experiences, discuss balancing, and explore ways to create a more unified competitive environment. In addition, SportsGamer and other league representatives will take part in an upcoming conversation with EA SPORTS to exchange insights on gameplay balance, abilities, and the overall direction of EASHL. These discussions are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that community feedback from both regions is heard and considered as the game continues to evolve. We believe that sharing unified feedback and experiences from both regions will help shape the next steps for the entire EASHL ecosystem. ECL ’26: Winter Restrictions (updated October 29th) After extensive discussion and testing, the League Administration has decided to continue restricting several player Abilities and Builds that were found to have a disproportionate impact on gameplay. The following restrictions apply across all ECL divisions for the ECL ’26: Winter season. 🛑 Banned Abilities All tiers (Gold, Blue, and Red) of the following abilities are banned: Big Rig Big Tipper Elite Edges Hipster No Contest Pressure+ Spark Plug Truculence Unstoppable Warrior (Added October 29th) Wheels These abilities have shown to create unbalanced or unintended gameplay advantages, reducing the importance of player skill and positioning. Specifically, as a category, we have wanted to slow down the gameplay by prohibiting abilities that add significant speed boosts. The bans help ensure that all players compete on an even playing field, where awareness and execution matter most. ⚔️ Position-Based Build Restrictions To further preserve role balance and gameplay authenticity: Forwards cannot use defensive classes: Defensive Defender, Enforcer Defender, Offensive Defender, Two-Way Defender, Puck Moving Defender Defenders cannot use forward classes: Dangler, Enforcer, Grinder, Playmaker, Power Forward, Sniper, Two-Way Forward Additionally, skaters and goalies cannot use special characters or custom character builds. 🧾 Enforcement Violations of the above bans will be handled as follows: 1st Infraction – Team captain warning + player suspended for 2 games + potential WO loss* 2nd Infraction – Second captain warning + full lineup warning + player suspended for 4 games + potential WO loss* 3rd Infraction – Captain suspended for 2 games + player suspended for 4 games + 2-point deduction + potential WO loss* *A Walkover (WO) loss will only apply if the offending team was clearly informed and continued to use banned Abilities or Builds afterward. Clear video evidence is required when reporting violations. You can view the full ECL '26: Winter - Official Rules here. Looking Forward While the overall ability structure remains similar to previous seasons, the addition of position-based build restrictions represents another step toward a stronger global standard. As always, we’ll continue to monitor gameplay trends and community feedback throughout the Winter season and forward your feedback directly to EA SPORTS. Thank you once again for your ongoing passion and input — it’s what continues to drive the ECL forward. Best regards, League Administration

Hey Gamers, After community feedback, and internal testing, we have decided to add Warrior to the list of banned traits. This decision is based on the idea that using Warrior leads to situations where players are unfairly given an advantage, for example where a player is hit and recovers faster than the player who made the hit. Additionally, there is the possible meta interaction to consider where banning Truculence, but leaving Warrior available could, and from observation of recent games has, lead to a large increase in Warrior use due to it not having a natural 'counter' available to players – tilting the scales in favour of forwards vs. defenders. As stated previously, we have been monitoring the community discussion and while there is an active ongoing discussion about the banning of other traits, especially Sponge, at this time we have only received concrete evidence of Warrior exhibiting game-altering behaviour, and as such we have elected to not include any additional traits in this latest ban update. Our intention by implementing this change before the start of the ECL pre-season is to provide teams with as stable a base as possible in their ongoing preparations for the upcoming ECL ’26: Winter season. As far as other traits go, we will of course continue to examine community feedback, as well as gameplay balance, and revisit if need be, but at present the evidence in front of us leads us to believe that no other remaining unbanned traits are in the game altering position that Warriors holds. ECL ’26: Winter Restrictions After extensive discussion and testing, the League Administration has decided to continue restricting several player Abilities and Builds that were found to have a disproportionate impact on gameplay. The following restrictions apply across all ECL divisions for the ECL ’26: Winter season. 🛑 Banned Abilities All tiers (Gold, Blue, and Red) of the following abilities are banned: Big Rig Big Tipper Elite Edges Hipster No Contest Pressure+ Spark Plug Truculence Unstoppable Warrior Wheels These abilities have shown to create unbalanced or unintended gameplay advantages, reducing the importance of player skill and positioning. Specifically, as a category, we have wanted to slow down the gameplay by prohibiting abilities that add significant speed boosts. The bans help ensure that all players compete on an even playing field, where awareness and execution matter most. ⚔️ Position-Based Build Restrictions To further preserve role balance and gameplay authenticity: Forwards cannot use defensive classes: Defensive Defender, Enforcer Defender, Offensive Defender, Two-Way Defender, Puck Moving Defender Defenders cannot use forward classes: Dangler, Enforcer, Grinder, Playmaker, Power Forward, Sniper, Two-Way Forward Additionally, skaters and goalies cannot use special characters or custom character builds. 🧾 Enforcement Violations of the above bans will be handled as follows: 1st Infraction – Team captain warning + player suspended for 2 games + potential WO loss* 2nd Infraction – Second captain warning + full lineup warning + player suspended for 4 games + potential WO loss* 3rd Infraction – Captain suspended for 2 games + player suspended for 4 games + 2-point deduction + potential WO loss* *A Walkover (WO) loss will only apply if the offending team was clearly informed and continued to use banned Abilities or Builds afterward. Clear video evidence is required when reporting violations. You can view the full ECL '26: Winter - Official Rules here. Looking Forward While the overall ability structure remains similar to previous seasons, the addition of position-based build restrictions represents another step toward a stronger global standard. As always, we’ll continue to monitor gameplay trends and community feedback throughout the Winter season and forward your feedback directly to EA SPORTS. Thank you once again for your ongoing passion and input — it’s what continues to drive the ECL forward. Best regards, League Administration

Hello everyone, We’ve received a number of questions about the private game passwords that have been used in recent years for organizing competitive training games within the community. As we head into the upcoming tournaments, we’d like to share a quick reminder of the current passwords to use when applying for daily competitive training games: ECLPro – for Elite / Pro and Pro / Elite Qualifying teams ECLLite – for Lite / Core teams ECLNeo – for Neo teams While we understand the desire to challenge yourself and want to play tougher teams, please respect the divisions as mentioned above for use with each password. The whole point of the password system is diminished if, for example, Core teams use the Pro password, and so on. Please also remember to use only the currently permitted abilities and builds when playing these training games. This helps ensure fair and consistent gameplay across all divisions. Thank you for your cooperation — and have fun out there!

Hey SportsGamers! The Summer Cup has always been our go-to for some chill competition during the summer. It’s been a while since we ran it like this, but it’s finally back! You’ve been asking for it, so here it is! Last time was back in 2019, with over 450 players and 31 teams joining in. Now, after a few years off, we’re pumped to bring it back for the 25th edition in Europe! 🇪🇺🏒 What is the Summer Cup? The Summer Cup is a casual draft tournament designed to welcome both experienced players and newcomers to the SportsGamer community. It’s a perfect opportunity to network, find new teammates, and get ready for future ECL seasons. For rookies, this is a fantastic and low-pressure entry into the competitive scene. Focus on Fun and Community In this 2025 edition, the focus is purely on community building, networking, and having fun - meaning there will be no prize pool this time around. It’s all about enjoying the off-season together through the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Schedule The last day to sign up for the Cup is July 17. After that, the draft will take place on the afternoon of Sunday, July 20, and captains will need to be available to pick their teams. The regular season will kick off right after, starting on July 21. Team Structure and Draft Rules Each team will consist of 12-14 players, and the teams will be split into groups of 10. To ensure diversity and balance, no more than two regular teammates (from the same club team) will be allowed on the same Summer Cup roster. Players will be seeded into baskets based on their perceived skill level, using data from the most recent season across Elite, Pro, Lite Core, and Neo divisions. Playing Time and Format All players are guaranteed to play at least four games during the Summer Cup, to ensure an inclusive and engaging experience for everyone. Matches will be played in dedicated EASHL clubs, with all team names carrying the “SG” prefix - for example, SG Golden Knights. Are you Captain material? We’re looking for players to fill the boots of the captains putting together the teams - so if you’re even a little bit interested, go for it! It’s one of the best ways to get involved and make the Summer Cup experience even better. As a captain, you’ll be in on the action during the draft on Sunday (July 20) afternoon, picking your own squad. After that, you’ll help run the team, keeping things organized, scheduling games, and making sure everyone’s having a good time. It’s a chance to meet new people, show some leadership, and just have fun running your own team. We’d love to see as many of you as possible sign up! We’re excited to bring this tradition back — and we hope you are too. Let’s make Summer Cup '25 a tournament to remember! 🌟 All tournament communication will be handled through Discord, so if you haven’t already, please join here: https://sportsgamer.gg/discord SIGN UP HERE

After a quarterfinals that saw each of the favorites move on to the semifinals, four teams remain in the ECL Elite division playoffs, and just eight wins separate them from championship glory. With each of these teams having their own unique storylines and each series being first-time playoff matchups between the two teams, let's dive deeper into each matchup and give you an inside look at how each side stacks up heading into the series. A big thank you goes to @Mozjayh, @Allupekkaz, @antoniomannen004 and @sopulii_ for contributing to this! (1) Last Dance vs (4) EXEN Regular Season Series (April 16th): - Last Dance 4-2 W - Last Dance 4-1 W Last Dance Last Dance has carried over their dominant regular season into the postseason, as the #1 seed was able to make quick work of Tohtorit in the Quarterfinals by knocking them out in five games. Despite playing a Tohtorit team that was likely one of the most "complete" #8 seeded teams that we have seen in some time in this division, Last Dance looked every bit the part of a true, championship favorite. They saw four different skaters reach at least 9 points, with Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen leading the way with 13 points and 9 assists. Even their lone player who didn’t reach 9 points led their team in goals, as Ilmari @Puantso Lehkonen tallied 6 goals, which accounted for all of his points in the series. Along with a balanced offensive attack that saw everyone in their lineup score, they also were able to play a complete game in their own end. Last Dance only allowed 11.4 shots per game in the series, and the always-steady Hannes @Hansulinho Kettunen was phenomenal in net, posting an 85.96 % and 1.6 GAA. Last Dance have yet to really face any adversity this season. They were dominant in their quest for the #1 seed and never felt much danger of losing their series against Tohtorit (aside from a late two-goal lead blown late in Game 2). There aren’t a lot of reasons to pick against this team other than really believing in their opponent. The effect of a “Last Dance” is a legitimate thing. They don’t want this ride to end with anything short of a championship. Not making the Finals would be a bitter disappointment for this group; they’ll do everything in their power to ensure that doesn’t happen. EXEN From a team that was questionable to make the playoffs, to one that just knocked out one of last season’s finalists. That is the story that EXEN has written for themselves over the past month and a half, and it’s one that has seen them also emerge as arguably the hottest team in the Elite Division. Their battle with Mustaa Kultaa lasted six games, and was capped off with an overtime game-winning goal from their star transfer, Kristian @kriketski17 Veijola, who tallied 8 total goals for 9 points, including 3 game-winning goals. Väinö @Pikkarii Pikkarainen was also a standout performer, tallying 7 points with 5 of them being assists. In that series, EXEN were able to not only come up with critical, game-changing plays, but they were also great at limiting Mustaa Kultaa’s opportunities offensively. EXEN allowed more than two goals just once in the series, and only surrendered 1.67 goals per game in the series and an average of 12.5 shots per game in the series. Much of this had to do with the team’s phenomenal play in their own zone, especially by Kasper @Kaz_zu Ramstedt in goal, who managed a strong 86.67 SV% through all six games. EXEN have found their stride and have continued to grow in it. They may not be a team that wins games in blowout fashion, but they keep games tight and always seem to show up with timely plays. It’ll take a complete series from all six positions for EXEN to pull off the upset, but as a significant underdog who no one expected to be here, what do they have to lose? That’s a dangerous thing to play against, especially when that team has the form to back it up. EXEN does, so don’t count them out. Prediction Hot vs Consistent is always a fun matchup, especially when you have a spot in the Finals on the line. When these two teams played on April 16th, EXEN was a completely different team than they are today. Sure, their roster was the same outside of Krike, but the team was in the midst of a considerable losing spell at that time, losing 7 of their first 8 games of the season. Ever since that series, EXEN has a record of 21-5-2 (including playoffs). On the other hand, Last Dance has been as steady as ever since opening day. They were the best team in the division offensively during the regular season, and they’ve paired that with elevated play in their own end (which was already Top 3 in the division). Based on what we saw between these two in the regular season, this series could go a variety of different ways, and as much as I love EXEN’s ability to stay close in games and the way that their experienced playmakers have stepped up, Last Dance have the feeling of a team of destiny. That’s a tough thing to overcome, but EXEN has already defied large odds this season. We’ll see which of those two stories holds true. @bMaJuH: Last Dance in 6 @Mozjayh: Last Dance in 7 @Allupekkaz: Last Dance in 5 @antoniomannen004: Last Dance in 6 @sopulii_: Last Dance in 7 (2) Mythix vs (3) Parasite Regular Season Series (May 7th): - Parasite 2-1 OTW - Mythix 1-0 OTW Mythix Mythix was able to knock off a tough SSK ESPORTS team in relatively quick fashion, ending the series in a gentleman’s sweep. However, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that this series was much closer than what the five-game ending would make you believe. Three of the five games were decided in overtime, with Mythix taking two of those games, including the series-clinching Game 5. Despite how close this series was in nature, though, Mythix was able to separate themselves from SSK in the way of offensive opportunities and neutral zone defense. Mythix had more shots on goal and time on attack in every game other than Game 5 and they were able to hold one of the division’s most dangerous offenses to just 1.4 goals per game in the series (SSK came in averaging 3.07 GF/GP, which ranked 5th in Elite). This group saw many of its regular-season producers continue to make an impact in the Quarterfinals. Teemu @temppanen Karvonen led the way with 11 points and 7 goals, while Miika @zMikkeez Kauppila and Eemil @Sokkelo__ Soikkeli each earned 8 points of their own. Jani @TeikDaun Honkasaari also had the most successful playoff round of any goaltender, flexing an 88.89 SV% and 1.4 GAA on 63 shots. He also registered a shutout in Game 4. This team has proven they are a legitimate championship threat, no matter what happens from this point forward. The next step is proving that they can become a Finals team. It’ll be a tall order to do so against the defending champions, but anyone counting out this team could very well regret it. Parasite After eliminating an upset-minded Heimo team in six games, Parasite now find themselves just 8 wins away from successfully defending their championship crown. I’ve been on record saying that I don’t feel that this group is as overwhelmingly dominant as they have been in seasons past, and while you could argue that going to a six game series against a heavy underdog in the Quarterfinals would back that logic, the actual games themselves showed that Parasite is still a team that elevates their game in the playoffs. In a series that saw four one-goal games, including two in overtime, Parasite was able to take over the flow of the game at many different points in this series. Heimo played spectacular defense throughout the series and had stellar goaltending to boot, but it still wasn’t enough to stop Parasite from getting the chances that they always look for. There’s multiple players that you could point to in terms of impressive individual performances. Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen led the team in points with 10 while tying for the team-high in assists with Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila, with each of them earning six. Aaro @xAaro89x Aarvala played arguably his best hockey of the season in this series, notching 7 goals on 8 points, while scoring on 35% of his shots. Perttu @Beniittto Kemppainen also continues to prove why he’s one of the best playoff performers in the scene, as though his 7 points in six games may not immediately jump out at you, his numbers outside of his offense show you exactly how crucial his impact is. In the series, he posted a 56.4% face-off percentage, had 8 blocked shots, 20 interceptions, and even showed his physicality with 24 hits. To summarize all of this simply, Parasite is still Parasite. They’re undoubtedly one of the best teams in the division, and until there is a team that can beat them in a best-of-seven series, it’s a risky choice to pick against them. There’s just so little margin for error against this team, and they themselves don’t seem to make many mistakes. They’re the defending champions for a reason, and they continue to prove why time and time again. Prediction This is such a tough series to predict, and I truly believe that this is a series worthy of a championship final, but only one can advance to that final stage, and whoever does will certainly be battle-tested by the time they get there. Mythix is the lower seed and has everything going for them. Multiple dangerous scoring threats, a reliable defense pair that makes plays in all three zones of the ice, a special teams that is amongst the best that we have seen in the Elite division over the years and a goaltender in net who will likely be a candidate for Goaltender of the Season. Parasite, on the other hand, are the defending champions. Sure, they may not be breezing through teams the way they were a season ago, but they’re still winning no matter the circumstances, and they’re still a team with some of the best players in Europe at every position on the ice, including two different starting-caliber goalies. I’d be stunned if this series goes any less than six games, and I think there are plenty of valid reasons to pick either of these teams to win. @bMaJuH: Mythix in 7 @Mozjayh: Parasite in 7 @Allupekkaz: Parasite in 6 @antoniomannen004: Mythix in 7 @sopulii_: Mythix in 7 Want to keep up with everything happening in the ECL this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Twitch, YouTube, and X.

It has been three months since the start of the ECL '25: Winter season and now it all has come down to this, the Finals of the Elite division. Taking place live at Assembly, Mustaa Kultaa will be taking on Parasite in a mighty showdown between the two best teams ECL has seen this season. Three months ago these teams were starting their seasons in very different positions. Of course, we have all learned to know the strength and power of Parasite, a team that not only has seen it all but has also won it all, multiple times. After making some key additions they have only gotten better and have been the favorites long before the season even started. On the other side, Mustaa Kultaa came into the season as what many would've considered a dark horse to battle for playoff spots. After getting promoted to the Elite division, the team went through big changes in their lineup and those changes have really hit the spot. Will Parasite finish what everyone expected of them or will Mustaa Kultaa be able to pull off one of the biggest upsets we've seen in recent years? The ECL '25: Winter - Elite Finals are played live at Assembly on Thursday 20th of February. Join us in Helsinki or watch the stream on twitch.tv/SportsGamerGG, starting at 18:00 CET. (3) Mustaa Kultaa Regular season 17-1-3-7, 56 points Quarterfinals 4-1 vs The Black Jacks (6) Semifinals 4-1 vs Tohtorit (2) Predicted Lineup Left Wing: Aaro @xAaro89x Aarvala (15+5=20) Center: Eetu @Launonexx Launonen (8+10=18) Right Wing: Alex @Allupekkaz Buntsel (A) (4+11=15) Left Defender: J-J @NuariJamal Raatikainen (A) (3+9=12) Right Defender: Mico @Miseee96 Pulli (0+12=12) Goaltender: Veeti @LatveX Laitinen (8-1-1, 85%, 1.8 GAA, 1 SO) Regular season After successfully qualifying for the Elite divisions in the "fastest BO7 series we've ever witnessed" Mustaa Kultaa had a stormy offseason all the way until a few weeks before the season start. They ended up bringing back only two starting players from their Pro campaign in Allupekkaz and LatveX, with Launonexx also making a return to the team after a successful rookie season in Elite. They added a new defensive pairing in NuariJamal-_-, last season's point leader in Pro, and Misee96 from the Gotham Knights. Completing the team was xAaro89x, who has managed to take his game to a whole another level this campaign after looking for a home from a few different teams in the Elite division. The team had a very strong start to season losing only three games through nine matchups, and were leading the league for some time. From the last 10 games though they only managed to grab three wins, which saw them finishing the regular season in third place, tied in points with second place Tohtorit. Playoffs In the Quarterfinals they were challenged by The Black Jacks, who had been in a similar situation many times, hoping to finally make it through the first round. Mustaa Kultaa started the playoffs with a big 5-1 victory and made a comeback down from 0-3 to take it in overtime in game 2. They went into the deciding night with all the momentum on their side and The Black Jacks riddled with lineup changes could not change the series around. Mustaa Kultaa continued to the Semifinals with a convincing 4-1 series victory to face Tohtorit. Tohtorit were coming from a strong first-round performance against Exen and had @Stammer70 put up what could be one of the best playoff series ever for a goalie. The first games were tight but Mustaa Kultaa seemed to always be a bit ahead, and most importantly were able to solve Stammer. Game two was one of the most exciting games we've seen this season. Being down 0-4 with 18 minutes on the clock, Mustaa Kultaa was able to pull of the unthinkable and took the game to overtime, where Launonexx gave them the 2-0 series lead with his hat trick goal. The second night started rough for Tohtorit and after scoring 3 goals on 4 shots in game 3, Mustaa Kultaa found themselves 3-0 up in the series and just one step away from the finals. Tohtorit put all they had into game 4 and managed to take it in the overtime, but that push seemed to be all they had as Mustaa Kultaa got off to a strong start in Game 5. Even though they controlled the gameplay, they found themselves down 1-2 in the last period, but they showed their resilience tying up the game. Only two seconds before the end xAaro89x was able to find the series winner which put them through to the finals. Aaro has really managed to turn around his image as a weak playoff performer this season. He's leading the team with 15 goals, 4 of which are game-winners, in the playoffs and he's led the team through the first two rounds. Launone has been the unsung hero of this team with his 18 points and is crucial for this team's success. Allupekkaz has had some trouble finding the back of the net, but with 15 points he's still doing great. Misee96 and nuarijamal both have 12 points and form a strong backline with Latvex, who's elevated his game after a great regular season and is looking like one of the lead candidates for Rookie of the Season. (1) Parasite Regular season 24-3-0-1, 78 points Quarterfinals 4-0 vs GOONS (8) Semifinals 4-1 vs Voittamaton (4) Predicted lineup Left Wing: Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen (13+13=26) Center: Perttu @Beniittto Kemppainen (C) (9+12=21) Right Wing: Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen (A) (12+14=26) Left Defender: Tomi @txmbo999 Laitinen (0+10=10) Right Defender: Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila (4+15=19) Goaltender: Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen (88.14%, 1.75 GAA, 1 SO) Regular season Is this the best lineup we've ever seen put up on the ECL ice? There are very strong arguments to say that after how dominant their season has been. Adding the star players from Tunnel Vision in Vattuyy and txmbo999 this Parasite team has been the clear favorite to win the title and possibly dominate the scene seasons to come. They had a record-breaking season scoring 149 goals with an average well above 5 and Vattuyy broke the goalscoring record with 65 goals, even with the season cut out by two games. NikkeDangles, had a personal record in points with 96, finishing second in the league, and formed a deadly playmaking duo together with Beniittto. They lost only one game during the regular season and took the first seed with an impressive margin of 22 points. Their dominance did not stop to only offense, as they also allowed the least goals, had the best powerplay (46%), and were second on the penalty kill while also taking the least penalties. FINSeRe shared playing time in goal with their other new addition UhNikke and they both, not surprisingly, had a great regular season. Playoffs In the Quarterfinals they were faced against the number eight seed GOONS. In the first game, GOONS did a good job keeping the scoring down but in the end, it was not enough as Parasite dominated the game with the puck and took home a 2-1 win. Things did not get any easier after that with Parasite being able to find more and more opportunities to score. After some wild offensive games, Parasite swept the series. The 8-5 score from Game 4 tells the whole story from the series which did not really test the Parasite squad. In the Semifinals Parasite took their second loss of the season in Game 1 against Voittamaton, but they were able to tie the series after a shutout from UhNikke. Voittamaton had their chances in the third game of the series but did not get the result with Parasite taking the win in the overtime. After that,t it was all Parasite as they dominated games four (5-1) and five (7-1) and booked their ticket to the finals. Their offensive trio Vattuyy, NikkeDangles, and Beniittto have continued from where they left off in the regular season and are taking up the top three spots in the playoffs. Teemuyy is even more dominant in the scoring for defensemen while Tombo has been handling more of the defensive duties. The goalie tandem has continued to share playing time and they will have two stars to choose from for the Finals series. Points to watch Can Parasite be beaten? That has been an almost impossible task for any team this season and Mustaa Kultaa will now have the task of doing that on the big stage. Regular season matches between these teams went to Parasite 5-3 and 6-2. Mustaa Kultaa will need to do a much better job defensively if they want to have any chance of taking it home. Rookie Goalie vs a seasoned veteran. While LatveX has had a great Rookie season and has been even better in the playoffs, he will still be facing a highly accomplished veteran in UhNikke. Parasite will create lots of offense and LatveX will be put in the toughest test of his young career. LAN experience is all on the side of the Parasite but at the same time, it will be interesting and at the same time exciting to see how this young Mustaa Kultaa squad can handle the pressure. "Hockey is a momentum game" as Finnish coach Juhani Tamminen once said. The start of the series will be important, but especially Mustaa Kultaa will need to make the most out of it and get into that flow state. If Parasite do that, it can be a very quick one. Rumors flying around about the Mustaa Kultaa squad and possible transfers. It is definitely not the ideal way to prepare for the biggest matchup of their career but maybe a good performance in the Finals could change things around? One thing is for sure, we're in for a hell of a show and we want everyone to join us, whether it is live at Assembly or on our live stream. Thursday, 20th of February 18.00 CET (19.00 local time in Finland).

Last week we saw six teams battling it out for three spots in the Elite division for the ECL '25: Spring season. Blackbirds already secured their spot by winning the Pro Championship,  but the teams placed 2nd-4th had to battle for promotion against the Elite teams seeded 13th-15th. In the end, SSK ESPORTS and NOVA were able to claim their spot in Elite, while Renascor was able to hold on to their spot in the highest division.      SSK ESPORTS rebound from the Pro Finals and will play in Elite, Falun Coal Miners relegated  After a disappointing result in the Pro Finals against Blackbirds, SSK ESPORTS were able to bounce back in the relegation series against Falun Coal Miners. The series, which was played in one night, ended 4-1 in favor of SSK after a mostly tight series. FCM were forced to play the series with their backup defender, LastMandalorian, who hadn't played tournament games in almost two years. They were able to win the first game 4-3 after a late winner but from there it was all downhill. Their offensive struggles from the regular season continued as they were able to score only seven goals in the remaining games. Zuppe_29 stayed in hot form and led SSK with 12 points. PSchibra scored three game-winners in the series and Janikka- had a very strong showing with 3 goals and 10 points from the left defender spot. For Falun, it is a tough loss as they were able to stay in Elite for only one season since their rebuild. After a good first week of the season truly nothing went their way and they will see themselves back in Pro for the Spring season. SSK ESPORTS vs Falun Coal Miners | 4-1 (3-4 OT, 2-1, 7-3, 2-1 OT, 3-2)    Renascor survive - Heartbreak for Otukset  After losing game seven in overtime against SSK in the semifinals, Otukset went into the relegation series with high hopes. Renascor was able to win the first game in double overtime with a game-winner from Virusactive. After that, Otukset took control of the series both on ice and on the scoreboard. They won three games straight, all by a one goal margin, and were just one step away from Elite. In game five Renascor got two quick goals but Otukset managed to tie it in the second period. Otukset were controlling the game but were unable to take advantage of their scoring chances and powerplays while Renascor used theirs and stayed alive in the series. Game six was the same story all over again, Otukset controlled but Renascor was the one on the scoreboard. A 21-save shutout from Gresu__ took the series into game seven. In game seven Otukset seemed to crumble under the pressure after giving up an early goal in the first. After surrendering a second goal, Miguli36 was able to bring some hope for them but that was all they got. Renascor shut the door and scored two more goals in the third, securing their spot in Elite. Fire_cats88 scored 8 goals and 12 points in the series but the MVP for the series has to be Gresu__ with his 88.14% save percentage and 2 GAA. For Otukset, miguli36 finished with 11 points but they would've needed more scoring, especially from Pursuitti who finished the series with 3 goals, 6 points, and a shooting percentage below 10. Otukset vs Renascor | 3-4 (3-4 OT, 3-2 OT, 3-2, 2-1, 2-3, 0-2, 1-4)   NOVA steamroll through Roots Gaming - End of an Era  Roots had been in this position many times before but this time it just wasn't meant to be. NOVA won the series straight in four games and we will see them in Elite for the first time. For Roots, games 1 and 3 were definitely something that could've turned the series the other way around. They were leading game one 2-1 heading into the third period, but 22 seconds before the end of regulation time NOVA was able to find the tying goal and eventually the winning goal in overtime. In game three Roots lost a two-goal lead in the last period and NOVA again found the winner at the end of the first overtime. That seemed to be the last straw for Roots as they looked very lost in game four and NOVA got to start their celebrations. NOVA will have to get straight back to work though as they announced that two of their star players in Nester_43 and KingOfApes will not continue with the team. It will be an interesting off-season for the team and we're left to wait what kind of lineup they will bring to the Spring season in Elite. This series loss also marks the end of an era for Roots after seven straight seasons in Elite. Roots Gaming announced that they will be stepping away from the scene with a few of their players hanging up the skates and the rest looking for a new home. NOVA vs Roots Gaming | 4-0 (3-2 OT, 4-1, 3-2 OT, 3-1)

As the ECL Lite and Core regular seasons approach their conclusion, the focus naturally turns to the playoffs. While the top teams continue their journey toward the championship, we also want to make sure that the season doesn’t simply end for those who fall just short of playoff qualification. For that reason, we’re introducing a new post-season competition for ECL Lite and ECL Core: The Post-Season Cooldown Tournament The Post-Season Cooldown Tournament is designed specifically for teams that do not qualify for the playoffs, giving them the opportunity to continue playing meaningful, competitive matches while the main playoffs are being played. Rather than the season ending abruptly, the Cooldown Tournament offers a structured and level-appropriate way to close out the season. How it works The Cooldown Tournament will be held separately for Lite and Core - one for each division Eligible teams are those that do not qualify for the playoffs Teams are allowed to opt out, with the default expectation that teams will participate. The tournament will run parallel to the playoff phase All Cooldown Tournaments will be played in a group stage format Group stage format – more games, better matchups The Cooldown Tournament will be played in a group stage format, ensuring that all participating teams get multiple games against opponents of a similar level. This format was chosen intentionally to: Guarantee more games for every team Avoid one-and-done eliminations Create closer, more balanced matchups Give teams a chance to build momentum and confidence toward the end of the season For teams that may have struggled during parts of the regular season, this structure provides the opportunity to play several competitive series against teams with comparable results — often leading to tighter games and a more enjoyable experience.   What’s next? Further details — including group sizes, match counts, and scheduling — will be shared closer to the playoff phase once final standings are confirmed. We’re excited to introduce the Post-Season Cooldown Tournament as a new part of the ECL Lite and Core season structure and look forward to seeing more great games played right through to the end of the season.

* This article is written as of June 1st Introduction The ECL Pro Division Quarterfinals have arrived, bringing a high-stakes showdown of elite teams vying for a spot in the semifinals. Expect a whirlwind of jaw-dropping plays, strategic masterclasses, and fierce rivalries reigniting on the virtual ice. From powerhouse lineups battling for supremacy to dark horses looking to upset the odds, these matchups are loaded with intensity. In this preview, we dive into each series, spotlight key players, uncover tactical advantages, and share bold predictions from the community’s top analysts. Get ready — the path to ECL glory is heating up! Quarterfinals: Monday 2.6 Tuesday 3.6 Thursday 5.6 Semifinals: Monday 9.6 Tuesday 10.6 Thursday 12.6 Finals: 16.6- 17.6* Promotion & Relegation games are to be played shortly after the season, however, dates are flexible. * Dates are subject to change as broadcast productions are confirmed. Golden Buffalos (1) vs. Falun Coal Miners(11) The ECL Pro Division Quarterfinals are in full swing, and one of the most intriguing matchups pits the top-seeded Golden Buffalos against the battle-hardened Falun Coal Miners. After a grueling first round, both teams are primed for a clash that promises a blend of star power, defensive tenacity, and high-stakes drama on the virtual ice. The Buffalos, regular-season juggernauts, barely survived an upset scare, while the underdog Coal Miners are riding a wave of momentum after a stunning first-round victory. This series is shaping up to be a classic battle of offensive firepower versus disciplined defense. Let’s break it down. Series Overview Golden Buffalos: Surviving the Scare The Golden Buffalos entered the playoffs as the team to beat, having dominated the regular season with their dynamic offense and stout defense. However, their first-round matchup against Realistic was anything but a cakewalk. The underdog Realistic pushed them to the brink in a seven-game thriller, exposing vulnerabilities in the Buffalos’ game. Despite the rocky start, the Buffalos showed resilience, leaning on their star players to secure the series win. Heading the charge for the Buffalos is their assistant captain and offensive dynamo, @Patzlaf, whose availability was in question heading into the playoffs due to off-ice commitments. Patzlaf silenced doubters by suiting up for all seven games, delivering clutch goals and playmaking that kept the Buffalos alive. On the blue line, @FlyerKungen emerged as a postseason standout, racking up an impressive nine assists in the first round. His ability to quarterback the power play and neutralize opposing forwards will be critical against Falun’s disciplined system. However, the Buffalos’ depth was tested, and questions linger about whether their motivation to play in the Pro division will be tested against a tighter defensive unit. Falun Coal Miners: The Upset Kings The Falun Coal Miners, seeded 11th, are no strangers to defying expectations. In the first round, they stunned the heavily favored Three Stars, dispatching them in just five games. Falun’s success was built on a suffocating defensive structure and lights-out goaltending from @benuh_, who posted an astonishing three shutouts in the series. The Coal Miners’ blue line was a brick wall, limiting high-danger chances and frustrating Three Stars’ high-octane offense. Offensively, Falun proved they can keep pace with the best. Their top line, led by @Buffy, was a force, with the sniper potting eight goals in five games. The Coal Miners’ forward group is a balanced attack, with all three forwards contributing near-evenly in the points column. This depth, combined with their defensive prowess, makes Falun a dangerous opponent, even as underdogs against the top-seeded Buffalos. Key Matchups Goaltending Battle: @McSavid vs. @benuh_ The goaltending duel in this series could be the deciding factor. The Buffalos’ @McSavid was solid in the first round, posting insane numbers but facing criticism for allowing soft goals in critical moments against Realistic. Meanwhile, Falun’s @benuh_ was a revelation, recording three shutouts in the playoffs so far, and a jaw-dropping 89,87% save percentage. Benuh’s ability to steal games gives Falun a slight edge in net, but McSavid’s experience in high-pressure situations could level the playing field. Whichever goalie can outduel the other in tight games will likely tip the series. Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Discipline The Golden Buffalos thrive on their high-octane offense, with @Patzlaf and company capable of turning games into track meets. Their ability to generate quick-strike goals and capitalize on power plays will test Falun’s defensive core. However, the Coal Miners’ team defense is their calling card. Led by their cohesive blue line and supported by @Buffy’s two-way play, Falun excels at clogging passing lanes and forcing turnovers. This series will hinge on whether the Buffalos can solve Falun’s defensive puzzle or if the Coal Miners can frustrate their opponents into costly mistakes. The X-Factor: Depth Scoring @xSauron_96 (edgard-ecn), a relatively inexperienced forward, needs to step up and contribute offensively to alleviate pressure from the top forwards. For Falun, their balanced scoring attack means they don’t rely on a single star, but their entire forward group must continue to chip in. If either team’s secondary scoring dries up, it could tilt the series in the other’s favor. Players to Watch Golden Buffalos: @xSauron_96 (Edgard_ecn) As the least experienced member of the Buffalos’ roster, @xSauron_96(edgard-ecn) is under the microscope. While his teammates carried the load in round one, the forward showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency. Against Falun’s stingy defense, he’ll need to elevate his game and prove he can hang with the veterans. A breakout performance could be the difference-maker for the Buffalos. Falun Coal Miners: Team Defense Rather than singling out one player, Falun’s entire defensive unit deserves the spotlight. Their ability to work as a cohesive group, from the blue line to the forwards, backchecking, was the backbone of their first-round upset. If Falun can maintain their disciplined structure and limit the Buffalos’ time and space, they have a real shot at pulling off another shocker. Tactical Breakdown The Buffalos will likely lean on their speed and skill, aiming to stretch Falun’s defense with quick transitions and stretch passes. Their power play, orchestrated by @FlyerKungen, is a weapon that could exploit any penalty trouble from Falun. However, the Coal Miners are masters at killing penalties and thriving in low-scoring games. Expect Falun to employ a tight-checking system, clogging the neutral zone and forcing the Buffalos to dump and chase—a style that frustrated Realistic in round one. Special teams could play a massive role. The Buffalos’ powerplay is lethal, but Falun’s penalty kill is among the league’s best. Conversely, Falun’s power play, while not as flashy, is efficient, with @Buffy's one-timer being a constant threat. The team that wins the special teams battle may well win the series. Series Prediction This series is a classic clash of styles: the Buffalos’ high-flying offense against Falun’s suffocating defense. The community’s analysts are leaning one way, but here’s what they’re saying: @hifk_FANI: Golden Buffalos in 6 (4-2). @jm98II Golden Buffalos in 6 (4-2). @Pekedipeks: Golden Buffalos in 6 (4-2). @Pensasmies: Golden Buffalos in 7 (4-3). Final Thoughts The Golden Buffalos vs. Falun Coal Miners series is a must-watch for ECL fans. The Buffalos have the talent and pedigree to make a deep run, but their first-round struggles exposed cracks in their armor. Falun, meanwhile, is riding high after their upset victory and has the defensive chops to make life difficult for the top seed. Expect a tightly contested series with low-scoring games and plenty of drama. Will the Buffalos’ stars shine brightest, or will Falun’s team-first mentality steal the show? Buckle up—this one’s going to be a grind. Afterlife (2) vs. Otukset(9) The ECL Pro Division Quarterfinals are heating up, and one of the most electrifying matchups features a classic Sweden vs. Finland clash between the second-seeded Afterlife and the ninth-seeded Otukset. This series promises to be a showcase of the Pro Division’s finest, blending high-octane offense, dazzling skill, and intense playoff physicality. Both teams are coming off contrasting first-round performances, setting the stage for a battle that could easily stretch to six or seven games. With offensive juggernauts on both sides and defenses looking to clamp down, this series will test which team can impose their will and outsmart their opponent. Let’s dive into the matchup. Series Overview Afterlife: Finding Their Groove Afterlife entered the playoffs as a favorite after a stellar regular season, but their first-round series against Setelikerho nearly derailed their championship hopes. Falling behind 2-1 early in the series, Afterlife looked vulnerable, particularly with their star center @Alpha borje struggling to find his rhythm. A bold tactical switch to move Alphaborje to right wing sparked a turnaround, as Afterlife rattled off three straight wins to close out the series. The adjustment unlocked their offense, with Alphaborje rediscovering his scoring touch and the team regaining its swagger. The Swedes are a well-rounded squad, boasting a potent top line and a mobile defense led by @azzez, who was a standout in round one. Afterlife’s ability to generate quick-strike goals and capitalize on transition opportunities makes them a dangerous opponent, but their early struggles against Setelikerho exposed a need for consistency. If they can maintain the momentum from their first-round comeback, Afterlife will be a tough out in this series. Otukset: The Finnish Freight Train Otukset, the ninth seed, came into the playoffs as underdogs but delivered a statement in round one by sweeping the experienced Fury in dominating fashion. The Finns were a defensive fortress, conceding just two goals across the entire series while averaging an impressive 3.75 goals per game offensively. Their disciplined system and relentless forecheck overwhelmed Fury, who couldn’t find answers for Otukset’s balanced attack. At the heart of Otukset’s success is their goalie anchor, @Roisto999, whose ability to shut down high-danger chances and anchor the defense was pivotal in the first round. Offensively, @James(machinegunkalle) led the way with timely goals and veteran leadership, proving he thrives under playoff pressure. Otukset’s ability to play low-scoring, mistake-free hockey while still generating offense makes them a legitimate threat to pull off another upset against Afterlife. Key Matchups Offensive Firepower: Afterlife’s Top Line vs. Otukset’s Balanced Attack This series pits two offensive powerhouses against each other. Afterlife’s top line, now clicking with @Alpha borje on the wing, is a constant threat with its speed and playmaking. Their ability to create in tight spaces and capitalize on power plays will challenge Otukset’s defense. However, Otukset counters with a balanced scoring attack, where every forward contributes. @James(machinegunkalle)’s knack for clutch goals and Otukset’s depth scoring could exploit any lapses in Afterlife’s defensive structure. The team that controls the pace and converts their chances will have the upper hand. Defensive Battle: @Azzez_88 vs. @juhkis96 & @Roisto999 The blue line will be a battleground in this series. Afterlife’s @Azzez_88 is a dynamic two-way defenseman who logged heavy minutes in round one, contributing offensively while shutting down opponents’ top lines. His mobility and vision will test Otukset’s forecheck. On the other side, @Roisto999 is Otukset’s defensive rock, excelling at making timely saves and keeping Otukset in it. If Roisto can neutralize Afterlife’s offensive might, Otukset could dictate the series’ tempo. This matchup of elite defensemen between @juhkis96 & @Azzez_88 will be critical in determining which team advances. Goaltending: A Hidden Key While Otuksetsr goaltender was the focal point in round one, both will face intense pressure in this series. Afterlife’s netminder @Bystrom_33 needs to be sharper after allowing some questionable goals against Setelikerho, especially against Otukset’s efficient offense. Otukset’s goaltender @Roisto999, meanwhile, was nearly flawless in the sweep of Fury, posting a league best save percentage 95,72% and providing confidence for the team’s defensive system. The goalie who makes the big saves in close games could swing the series. Players to Watch Afterlife: @Azzez_88 The dynamic defenseman was a revelation in the first round, logging big minutes and contributing at both ends of the ice. @Azzez_88’s ability to jump into the rush, quarterback the power play, and shut down opposing forwards makes him a game-changer. Against Otukset’s relentless attack, he’ll need to replicate his round-one heroics and elevate his game further to give Afterlife an edge. Otukset: @James (machinegunkalle) The veteran winger is Otukset’s emotional and offensive leader. @James (machinegunkalle) has a knack for stepping up in big moments, and his experience in high-pressure games will be crucial against a talented Afterlife squad. If he can continue his scoring ways and set the tone with his physicality, Otukset could ride his leadership to another upset. Tactical Breakdown Afterlife will look to push the pace, using their speed and skill to create odd-man rushes and exploit Otukset’s defense in transition. Their power play, revitalized by @Alpha borje’s move to the wing, is a weapon that could capitalize on any discipline issues from Otukset. However, the Finns are masters of a structured, low-risk game plan. Otukset will likely focus on clogging the neutral zone, forcing Afterlife to dump the puck and engage in board battles—a style that played to their advantage against Fury. Special teams will be a factor. Afterlife’s power play is dangerous, but Otukset’s penalty kill was perfect in round one, neutralizing Fury’s chances. Conversely, Otukset’s power play, while not as flashy, is opportunistic, with @James (machinegunkalle) providing a lethal shot from the wing. The team that wins the special teams battle could gain a decisive advantage in what promises to be a tight series. Series Prediction This Sweden vs. Finland showdown is poised to be a war of attrition, with both teams capable of lighting up the scoreboard and locking things down defensively. The community’s analysts are weighing in with their takes: @hifk_FANI: Otukset in 6 (4-2). @jm98II: Otukset in 7 (4-3). @Pekedipeks: Afterlife in 5 (4-1). @Pensasmies: Otukset in 7 (4-3). Final Thoughts The Afterlife vs. Otukset series is a marquee matchup that encapsulates everything fans love about ECL playoff hockey: speed, skill, physicality, and strategic chess matches. Afterlife’s high-flying offense, led by a rejuvenated @Alpha borje, will test Otukset’s airtight defense, anchored by @juhkis96. Meanwhile, Otukset’s balanced attack and veteran leadership from @machinegunkalle could exploit any cracks in Afterlife’s game. Expect a back-and-forth series with momentum swings and highlight-reel plays. Will Afterlife’s star power shine through, or will Otukset’s grit and discipline pave the way for another upset? One thing’s for sure—this series will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Almost Famous (3) vs. ROBE Esports(8) The ECL Pro Division Quarterfinals are delivering blockbuster matchups, and the clash between the third-seeded Almost Famous and eighth-seeded ROBE Esports is no exception. This series pits two tactically versatile teams against each other, each armed with dynamic playmakers, rock-solid defenses, and elite goaltending. Both squads are battle-tested after contrasting first-round performances, setting the stage for a fierce battle where neither team is likely to give an inch. Expect a chess match filled with strategic adjustments, highlight-reel plays, and intense physicality as these two heavyweights vie for a semifinal spot. Here’s the full breakdown. Series Overview Almost Famous: A Dominant Force Almost Famous entered the playoffs as one of the favorites, carrying the pedigree of past Pro Division champions. They lived up to the hype in the first round, steamrolling Poggers in a commanding 4-0 sweep. The series was a statement of intent, with Almost Famous showcasing their offensive depth, defensive discipline, and unshakable composure. Their ability to dominate all facets of the game left Poggers reeling and sent a clear message to the rest of the division: Almost Famous is here to reclaim the crown. Leading the charge is @xrikardo55 , a dynamic winger whose scoring prowess and flair make him a constant threat, amassing an impressive 20 points (10+10). The team’s balanced attack and veteran leadership ensure they thrive under playoff pressure, but their occasional defensive lapses could be a concern against a team like ROBE. With a loaded toolbox of offensive weapons and a battle-tested core, Almost Famous is primed to make a deep run, but they’ll need to stay sharp to avoid being caught off guard. ROBE Esports: Grit and Resilience ROBE Esports faced a much tougher road in the first round, surviving a rollercoaster series against Aspyre. After jumping out to a 3-1 lead, ROBE nearly squandered their advantage but sealed the series with a commanding performance in game seven. The X-factor in that series was @punt1la98, whose clutch playmaking and timely goals kept ROBE alive. Meanwhile, defenseman @lycki10 emerged as a postseason star, amassing an incredible 16 points (3 goals, 13 assists) in seven games. His offensive output from the blue line gives ROBE a unique weapon that could exploit Almost Famous’ defensive weaknesses. ROBE’s strength lies in their versatility, with a playbook that adapts to any opponent. Their goaltender was a wall in game seven, and their ability to grind out wins in tight games makes them a dangerous underdog. However, facing Almost Famous’ relentless offense will be their toughest test yet. Key Matchups Offensive Might vs. Defensive Prowess Almost Famous boasts one of the league’s most potent offenses, led by @xrikardo55, whose speed and goal-scoring ability can turn games in an instant. Their top line thrives in open ice, creating chances off the rush and capitalizing on power plays. ROBE, however, counters with a disciplined defensive system that frustrated Aspyre in round one. @lycki10's ability to join the rush while maintaining defensive responsibilities makes him a dual threat, but ROBE’s entire defense will need to be on point to contain Almost Famous’ firepower. The team that controls the tempo—whether it’s Almost Famous’ up-tempo attack or ROBE’s structured counterattacks—will likely dictate the series. Goaltending Duel Both teams have elite goaltenders who can steal games. Almost Famous’ netminder @kkostiiii was far from flawless in the sweep of Poggers, posting an average save percentage (77,96%) and exuding instability. ROBE’s goaltender @Viltzup, meanwhile, faced intense pressure against Aspyre and delivered in the clutch, particularly in game seven where he recorded a shutout. With both offenses capable of generating high-danger chances, the goaltending battle could be the difference-maker. Whichever netminder stands taller in tight moments will give their team a significant edge. Special Teams: Power Play vs. Penalty Kill Almost Famous’ power play is a well-oiled machine, with @keranee & @xrikardo55 serving as a lethal trigger man on the wing. Their ability to convert on the man advantage could exploit any penalties from ROBE. Conversely, ROBE’s power play, fueled by @lycki10’s playmaking from the point, is a growing threat. Their penalty kill was solid against Aspyre, but facing Almost Famous’ dynamic special teams will be a step up. The team that wins the special teams battle could swing the series in their favor. Players to Watch Almost Famous: @xrikardo55 The electrifying winger is the heartbeat of Almost Famous’ offense. @xrikardo55’s ability to light the lamp with highlight-reel goals makes him a game-changer, and his performance in the sweep of Poggers showed he’s ready for the playoff spotlight. ROBE will need to adjust their game plan to contain him, whether through physical play or tight checking. If Rikardo gets loose, he could single-handedly tilt the series in Almost Famous’ favor. ROBE Esports: @lycki10 The defenseman’s 16-point outburst in round one was a revelation, and @lycki10 is quickly becoming ROBE’s most dangerous weapon. His ability to drive offense from the blue line while holding the fort defensively gives ROBE a unique edge. Against Almost Famous’ occasionally shaky defense, @lycki10’s point production could be a game-changer. If he continues his scoring ways, ROBE could pull off the upset. Tactical Breakdown Almost Famous will look to impose their high-tempo, skill-driven game, using speed and quick puck movement to create chaos in ROBE’s defensive zone. Their power play, orchestrated by @xrikardo55 & @Jalkkin-, is a lethal weapon that could capitalize on any discipline issues from ROBE. On the other hand, ROBE prefers a more calculated approach, relying on a strong forecheck and opportunistic counterattacks. @lycki10’s ability to jump into the play adds an extra layer to ROBE’s offense, but they’ll need to avoid getting caught in Almost Famous’ transition game. ROBE’s penalty kill will face a stern test against Almost Famous’ power play, while their own power play must capitalize on any chances to keep pace. Expect both teams to make in-game adjustments, with Almost Famous trying to stretch the ice and ROBE aiming to clog the neutral zone and force turnovers. The team that adapts better to the other’s playbook will have the upper hand. Series Prediction This series is shaping up to be a clash of titans, with Almost Famous’ championship pedigree facing off against ROBE’s resilience and versatility. The community’s analysts lean heavily toward the favorites but acknowledge the challenge ROBE presents: @hifk_FANI: Almost Famous in 5 (4-1). @jm98II: Almost Famous in 7 (4-3). @Pekedipeks: Almost Famous in 5 (4-1). @Pensasmies: Almost Famous in 5 (4-1). Final Thoughts The Almost Famous vs. ROBE Esports series is a must-watch for ECL fans, combining elite skill, tactical intrigue, and playoff intensity. Almost Famous enters as the clear favorite, with @xrikardo55 leading a high-powered offense and a roster built for postseason success. However, ROBE’s resilience, fueled by @lycki10’s breakout performance and @punt1la98’s clutch play, makes them a dangerous underdog. This series will hinge on which team can impose their style of play and capitalize on their opportunities. Will Almost Famous continue their dominant run, or can ROBE pull off an upset? Get ready for a thrilling battle that could define the Pro Division playoffs. Pirates Esports (4)vs. Vizio 6) The ECL Pro Division Quarterfinals are delivering high-stakes battles, and the matchup between the fourth-seeded Pirates Esports and the sixth-seeded Vizio is shaping up to be a coin-flip thriller. Both teams cruised through their first-round series with relative ease, but now they face a far tougher challenge in each other. With a franchise-first Pro Division semifinal berth on the line, this series promises tight games, explosive offense, and a clash of contrasting styles. Pirates bring individual flair and boldness, while Vizio counters with experience and a balanced roster. Buckle up for a must-watch series that could go down to the wire. Here’s the full breakdown. Series Overview Pirates Esports: The Central European Contenders Pirates Esports entered the playoffs as a dangerous squad, and they proved their mentality in the first round with a convincing victory over a lackluster Carnages team. The Pirates’ blend of skill, speed, and confidence allowed them to control games from start to finish, showcasing their potential as a championship contender. As the only Central European team remaining in the Pro Division playoffs, Pirates carry the region’s hopes on their shoulders. Leading the charge are @Winci-_o and @AdriF_23 whose offensive prowess overwhelmed Carnages’ defense. The duo’s chemistry and ability to create scoring chances in tight situations make Pirates a formidable opponent. However, Vizio’s high-powered offense will test Pirates’ defensive structure in ways Carnages couldn’t. If Pirates can maintain their swagger and capitalize on their individual skill, they have a real shot at advancing to the semifinals. Vizio: The Finnish Rising Stars Vizio has been a team on the rise, taking significant strides each season, and their first-round performance showed they’re ready to compete with the elite. Bolstered by key acquisitions like @Nieppii and @SakkeTheEngineer, Vizio dispatched their opening-round opponent with ease, demonstrating a balanced attack and a stingy defense. The Finnish squad has exceeded expectations, but now they face a Pirates team that thrives on individual brilliance and bold play. Vizio’s strength lies in their experience and depth, with @Jetsu28 leading the way as a proven goal-scorer who can beat any goaltender. Their ability to play a structured, team-oriented game gives them an edge in tight contests, but they’ll need to shore up their defense against Pirates’ dynamic forwards. Vizio’s progress has them knocking on the door of greatness, and this series is their chance to prove they belong among the Pro Division’s elite. Key Matchups Offensive Firepower: Pirates’ Flair vs. Vizio’s Depth Pirates Esports rely on the individual brilliance of @Winci-_o and @AdriF_23, whose speed and creativity can break open games. Their ability to generate high-danger chances off the rush will test Vizio’s defensive discipline. Vizio, however, counters with a deep and balanced attack, led by @Jetsu28, whose lethal shot and knack for finding open ice make him a constant threat. The team that better exploits their opponent’s defensive lapses will likely control the series’ momentum. Defensive Structure: Pirates’ Backline vs. Vizio’s Blue Line Pirates’ defense held firm against Carnages, but Vizio’s offense presents a much tougher challenge. The Pirates will need to stay disciplined and avoid getting caught in transition, where Vizio’s forwards thrive. On the other side, Vizio’s blue line, bolstered by the goalie @SakkeTheEngineer, has been a strength all season. Their ability to break up plays and transition the puck quickly will be critical against Pirates’ aggressive forecheck. The defensive unit that limits high-danger chances will give their team a significant advantage. Goaltending: A Battle of Unsung Heroes Both teams feature goaltenders who quietly excelled in the first round. Pirates’ netminder was a steady presence, making key saves to preserve their dominance over Carnages. Vizio’s goaltender @SakkeTheEngineer, meanwhile, faced fewer shots but was nearly flawless, providing a backbone for their team’s success. With both offenses capable of lighting the lamp, the goaltending duel could be the X-factor. The netminder who makes the big stops in crunch time will play a massive role in determining the series’ outcome. Players to Watch Pirates Esports: @AdriF_23 The French phenom has been a revelation this season, combining speed, skill, and a nose for the net. @AdriF_23’s ability to rise to the occasion makes him a player to watch in this series. Against Vizio’s experienced defense, he’ll need to use his creativity and boldness to create scoring chances and test their goaltender. If Adrif can break through, Pirates could ride his momentum to the semifinals. Vizio: @Jetsu28 As Vizio’s premier goal-scorer, @Jetsu28 has the ability to take over games with his deadly shot and clutch instincts. His performance in the first round showed he’s ready for the playoff spotlight, and Pirates’ defense will have their hands full containing him. If Jetsu can find the back of the net consistently, Vizio could overwhelm Pirates’ backline and secure the upset. Tactical Breakdown Pirates Esports will look to play an up-tempo game, using their speed and individual skill to create chaos in Vizio’s defensive zone. @AdriF_23 and @Winci-_o excel in transition, and their ability to generate odd-man rushes could exploit any mistakes from Vizio’s blue line. Vizio, however, prefers a more structured approach, relying on weak defense and quick puck movement to create scoring opportunities. @SakkeTheEngineer's shot stopping ability adds a bit of an edge towards Vizio. Special teams could be a deciding factor. Pirates’ power play, fueled by @AdriF_23's flair, is a dangerous weapon, but Vizio’s penalty kill has been airtight. Conversely, Vizio’s power play, with @Jetsu28 as the trigger man, could capitalize on any penalties from Pirates’ aggressive style. The team that adapts better to the other’s game plan and wins the special teams battle will have a clear path to victory. Series Prediction This series is as close as it gets, with Pirates’ individual brilliance squaring off against Vizio’s experience and depth. The community’s analysts are split, reflecting the unpredictability of this matchup: @hifk_FANI: Vizio in 7 (4-3). @jm98II: Vizio in 6 (4-2). @Pekedipeks: Pirates in 7 (4-3). @Pensasmies: Pirates in 6 (4-2). Final Thoughts The Pirates Esports vs. Vizio series is a showcase of everything that makes ECL playoff hockey special: skill, strategy, and heart. Pirates bring a bold, high-skill approach, led by @AdriF_23 and @Winci-_o, while Vizio counters with a seasoned, well-rounded roster featuring @Jetsu28 and @Nieppii. Both teams are hungry for a semifinal spot, and their contrasting styles promise tight, back-and-forth games. Will Pirates’ individual brilliance shine through, or will Vizio’s experience and teamwork carry them to victory? This series is a must-watch for eHockey fans, with every game poised to deliver drama and excitement.

⚠️ We are looking for writing talent - if you can contribute to articles about the ECL, please see this news story for more information. The ECL '25: Spring - Core division has reached the midway point, and the competition is as fierce as expected. With playoff dreams alive across all groups, several teams and players have started to separate themselves from the pack. Here's where we stand. Top Teams SKYFALL and Harhapassi are locked in a dead heat at the top of Group 3, each sitting at 51 points with dominant goal differentials and powerful special teams. Nordic Nosebleed (Group 2) lead their group with a strong 14-1-1 record, but ARMEIJAN KURI and Fallen Rangers are close behind, both showing elite two-way play. VBO STARS (Group 1) are setting the pace with 44 points from 20 games, combining balanced offense and defense to maintain a tight grip on the standings. Sopranos and HC Purijat (Group 4) are shaping up for a fierce battle, with both teams relying on suffocating defense and   high penalty kill percentages.   Standout Skaters @stu_rulez (SKYFALL) leads the scoring charts with 73 points (31G, 42A) in 20 games, showcasing elite playmaking and scoring. @Sebko99 (Fallen Rangers) has racked up 70 points in just 16 games, proving to be one of the deadliest forwards in the division. @Chluda15 (Taifun Veterans) and @Gadzovec (Taifun Veterans) are both inside the top five, giving their team one of the most dynamic offensive duos. Other top performers include @Timo Silakka (Harhapassi) and @Koutsi (SKYFALL), both critical pieces for their respective teams' success.   Goaltending Watch @Mrantonn (Prowlers) has been a rock over 14 games with an 89.05% save percentage and a 2.14 goals against average, playing a massive role for Prowlers. @Calxm41 (Dynamo Hc) and @Japemode (HC Purijat) have also stood tall with save percentages over 87%, helping to anchor two defensively tough teams. @Melker Tongring Tfue4173 (Nordic Knights) and @Kurtznaattori (Koppibuutti) continue to impress with strong consistency between the pipes.   Groups at a Glance Group 1: VBO STARS lead but Dynamo Hc and Viitapohja Vikings are closing in, both showing playoff-caliber form. Group 2: Nordic Nosebleed slightly edge ARMEIJAN KURI and Fallen Rangers in what is shaping up as a three-horse race. Group 3: SKYFALL and Harhapassi have pulled away, but Taifun Veterans and Prowlers are dangerous outsiders. Group 4: Sopranos, HC Purijat, and Conexion all have legitimate claims to the top seed.   Players to Watch in the Second Half @stu_rulez (SKYFALL) — Can he maintain his pace and lead the league in points? @Sebko99 (Fallen Rangers) — A scoring machine looking to push his team into top contention. @Mrantonn - (Prowlers) — One of the most reliable goaltenders so far. @Chluda15 and @Gadzovec (Taifun Veterans) — Watch for these two to continue their offensive barrage.   As the season intensifies, expect tighter games, late-game heroics, and playoff intensity to rise. The race to the playoffs is officially on — and no one is safe yet. Stay tuned for the stretch run!

ECL ’25: Spring Sign-Ups Are Open – Welcome to Season 20 and the League’s 10-Year Anniversary! Can you believe it’s been 10 years since we kicked off the ECL? Now, as we enter Season 20, what started as a one-division journey with around 50 teams has grown into a 200+ team, five-division experience. It’s incredible to see so many players who have been with us since the beginning—there’s been a lot of eHockey played over the years! You can browse some of these legendary player profiles on the SportsGamer All-time Stats page. I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the players who have joined us on this journey and continue to compete in the league we all live and breathe. Since its inception in 2015, the European Championship League (ECL) has established itself as the pinnacle of eHockey. It’s where the best players from across the continent face off in a 6v6 format that leaves no margin for error. Every position on the ice—forward, defense, and goalie—is controlled by a human player, creating a uniquely competitive and authentic environment. With divisions ranging from the elite to entry-level, the ECL provides a platform for players of all skill levels to make their mark. With a total prize pool of 24 000 EUR on the line—spread across both 6v6 and 1v1 formats—the stage is set for yet another amazing competitive season in European NHL esports. The ECL is the pinnacle of European NHL esports. The abbreviation stands for the European Championship League and it features NHL 6v6 esports in five divisions aimed at various skill levels. Every player, including the goalies, is controlled by a human. League games are played in the EASHL mode and the platform is PlayStation and Xbox. ECL has been played since 2015, so the upcoming season is already the 17th. The latest addition to the ECL product family is a 1v1 tournament, where Europe's best solo players fight for the championship. ECL 1v1 has been played since the ECL '23 Winter season. Basic information/requirements of ECL: Regional restrictions: ECL is a European tournament format, however, we do not necessarily exclude players located in North America or Asia. A European server will always be used. We reserve the right to exclude teams or players in case of severe connection issues. Individual requirements: Each player needs to have an account at SportsGamer.GG and create their personal player card. ECL licenses: Teams in ECL Elite & ECL Pro, ECL Lite, and ECL Core will require their respective ECL ‘25: Spring team licenses in order to play. In addition, every player in the above-mentioned divisions needs to have a valid ECL ‘25: Player License or ECL ‘25: Spring Player License before taking the ice. Players in ECL Neo require only an ECL '25: Spring Neo Player License. For a more extensive overview of the ECL as a whole, check out our “What is the ECL?” news story. Please note that the sign-up window for the Pro Wild Card Battle, the Pro Qualifier and the Pro and Elite divisions is quite short, so don't miss out and please don't hesitate to reach out to support if you have any questions. The sign-ups close on the below-mentioned dates: Pro Wildcard Battle: 18.3.2025 ⚠️ ECL Pro Qualifier: 21.3.2025 ⚠️ ECL Neo: 4.4.2025 ECL Core: 4.4.2025 ECL Lite: 4.4.2025 ECL Pro: 21.3.2025 ⚠️ ECL Elite: 21.3.2025 ⚠️ * Signups will close at 23:59 CET on the day mentioned unless otherwise specified. For more detailed information on the different divisions and their schedules, see this article. Qualifiers: The schedule for the qualifiers will be tight - as usual, to allow the maximum time for sign-ups - so please prepare to play quite intensely during the qualifiers stage. Pro Wildcard Battle: 19.-20.3 (if necessary) Pro Qualifier starts 23.3 Elite Qualifier start: 30.3 (if necessary) The exact details will be shared once the number of teams is known. Regular Season duration: 7.4-8.5.2025 Estimated finals dates: Below are estimated dates for the Finals to be approximately played. We reserve the right to changes in schedule. ECL Neo Finals 29.6 ECL Core Finals 25.6. - 26.6 ECL Lite Finals 23.6. - 24.6 ECL Pro Finals 16.6. - 17.6 ECL Elite Finals 14.6 Free Agents & Teams Looking for Players Don't have a team yet? Team looking for additions to your roster? If you are a free agent looking to be picked up, please head over here. If you are representing a team looking for players, please head over here. Need more help, check out the below article! Early Bird Offer on Team Licenses Below you’ll find the pricing of the team for ECL ‘25: Spring. You can pick up the ECL ‘25: Spring Team license for the Super Early Bird and Early Bird pricing listed below. After that, we will offer a slightly elevated regular pricing from March 27th onward. PURCHASE YOUR ECL '25 LICENSES HERE For those of you participating in the qualifiers and unsure which division your team will play in for the ECL ‘25: Spring season, you can still take advantage of this offer; Purchase the Super Early Bird license for the division you are qualifying for and if your team is unsuccessful in the mission, we will refund you the difference to the Super Early Bird price for the division your team ends up in. For example, if you enter the qualifiers for the Pro division, purchase the Super Early Bird Pro license. If your team doesn’t qualify for the Pro division, you will play in the Lite division and we will refund you the difference - in this example: 100 EUR. The ECL Neo division does not require a team license, however, you do need the ECL Neo Player license at the cost of 10 EUR per season. Please refer to this ECL Ranking in order to understand which teams are eligible to sign up for each division. Rule Changes: Ability Bans All Gold abilities and the silver abilities Truculence, Big Tipper, and Stick 'Em Up are banned for the ECL '25: Spring season. Read the full League Administration statement here. The full updated ECL '25 rulebook will be published closer to the season, you can check out last season's rules here.

ECL '25: Winter - Pro | Individual Player Award Winners SportsGamers, For the first time ever, it's time to give some glory and recognition to players with the best individual performances and most significant contributions for their teams in our second-highest tier of European 6v6 eHockey: ECL Pro Player Awards for the Winter '25 season! Awarded players were selected by our council including writers, staff, and casters who have been observing the accomplishments of our teams and players precisely. Below you'll find a list of winners in four categories: Forward of The Season The Top Forward award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their forward position. Mikko @Toivone_ Toivonen, NOSTREETSPORTS Defender of The Season The Top Defender award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their defenseman position. Tuukka @KingOfApes_ Röpelinen, NOVA Goalie of The Season The Top Goalie award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their goaltender position. Jesse @Jeerik17 Leppä, Blackbirds Leppä was also chosen as the playoffs MVP by his team Blackbirds. Rookie of The Season The Rookie Of The Season award is awarded to a player in their rookie ECL Pro season, who has excelled above the competition regardless of position. Players who have played in ECL Elite but now played their first season in ECL Pro are not eligible. Aatu @aomyo6195 Myöhänen, Blackbirds

The ECL is constantly evolving, and each season brings new rosters, returning veterans, and shifting team dynamics. To help us seed divisions as accurately as possible, we’re opening applications for Community Scouts. What Is a Community Scout? A Community Scout is a knowledgeable, experienced member of the NHL community who helps us assess the relative strength of teams within a division. Scouts are not judges, officials, or league staff — instead, they provide valuable insight to support our internal seeding process. It's worth noting, that the Community Scout does not need to know all divisions - even being knowledgeable within just one division is helpful. This allows us to combine: administrative data past season results roster changes and community expertise …to create the most competitive, balanced, and enjoyable ECL experience possible. Who Are We Looking For? We’re inviting players, captains, staff, content creators — or any long-time followers of the scene — who feel they have a solid understanding of: the relative skill levels of teams in a division roster strengths and weaknesses past performances and trends the “real” level of teams beyond just their results You do not need to be a current or former Elite/Pro player. What matters most is knowledge, fairness, and familiarity with the community and the level of play that you are providing your feedback on. What Will Community Scouts Do? Ahead of the group draw, Community Scouts will be asked to: Review the list of teams in a specific division Share their opinion on how strong each team is Provide optional short comments explaining their reasoning Your input will be used as one of several data points in our seeding process. The goal is simple: Better information → Better groups → Better games. How Much Time Does It Take? Very little — usually just a few minutes per division you follow, however, we will need you to be able to submit the feedback within a few hours of getting the list, as we wish to get the groups and schedules communicated as early as possible. Sign-ups close on Thursday night, but we might reach out earlier to get things started ahead of time. This is a completely voluntary, community-driven role. How to Apply If you’re interested in contributing to the competitive integrity of the ECL and helping shape the upcoming season, fill out the short form below: 👉 Apply here: https://forms.gle/zvYpop1XzVsqhFXK8

After a thrilling Finals series that’s being viewed as an instant classic by many in the community, Last Dance were crowned Elite division champions for the ECL '25: Spring season, defeating the underdog story Mythix in a dramatic seven-game series. This marks the first championship for Last Dance since the ECL 11 season (2021), when the team was under the FILADELPHIA name. This is also the club's fourth ECL Elite title, which ranks second all-time in ECL history. Last Dance's ECL ‘25 Spring Elite Championship roster pictured from left to right: @Lxndstrom, @J-_-Jamaltheman, @NikkeDangles, @Hansulinho, @Eki, @Puantso & @SibeIius This is a long-awaited championship for most of the Last Dance roster. This marks the first championship for Eki since ECL 11 with FILADELPHIA, and the first for Puantso, Hansulinho, and Sibelius since ECL 10 with HAVU GAMING. For their defense pairing of Lxndstrom and Jamaltheman, this is their first career Elite division championship. For NikkeDangles, this is his second-straight Elite title after winning with Parasite a season ago. It also marks his sixth career Elite Division championship, a new ECL record. The trophy is a fitting send-off for one of NHL esports’ all-time great players, as Eki announced prior to the playoffs that he would be retiring from competitive 6v6 play after the ECL 25’ Spring season. If this truly is the end for Eki’s competitive 6v6 career, he will end it with 1,139 career games played across all competitions, along with four ECL championships, four FCL championships and an SCL championship. Eki will also end his career as the all-time record holder for playoff games played (473) playoff points (925) and assists (544), and second in all-time playoff goals with 381. The one player that he trails? His long-time linemate @Patzlaf, who he played 539 total ECL with, the most out of any duo in league history. Eki also ranks Top 5 all-time in regular season points, assists and plus/minus. In terms of Last Dance as a team, it is unclear whether or not the team will stick around without the long-time captain; however, if they don’t, this club will go down as one of the most accomplished in European history. Last Dance has amassed 966 games played across all competitions, earning a record of 753-147-66 during that time (this equals a .779 winning percentage). The team has previously been known under the names FILADELPHIA, Linköping HC, Frölunda HC, Straikers, and Voittamaton. Along with their four ECL Elite division titles, the team also earned 10 ECL Elite Finals appearances (half of the league’s Finals) and 3 FCL championships in their history. Team Interview: Last Dance’s Road to the Championship: Regular Season: 24-2-1-3 (77pts) - 1st in Elite Division Quarterfinals: 4-1 series win vs (8) Tohtorit Semifinals: 4-0 series win vs (4) EXEN Finals: 4-3 series win vs (2) Mythix Last Dance’s ECL 25' Spring Championship Roster: 🇫🇮 Erik "Eki" Tammenpää (C) 🇫🇮 Aapeli "Lxndstrom" Landström (A) 🇫🇮 Niklas "NikkeDangle" Tukiainen (A) 🇫🇮 Ilmari "Puantso" Lehkonen 🇫🇮 Jimi "J-_-Jamaltheman" Rönkkönen 🇫🇮 Hannes "Hansulinho" Kettunen 🇫🇮 Oskari "Sibelius" Grönroos If you didn’t get to catch the Elite Finals live, you can find the highlights from all seven games here:

Vizio (6) VS ROBE esports(8) The ECL '25 Spring Pro Final is here, and it’s a showdown for the ages! Europe’s 2nd highest hockey esports championship has reached its peak, with Vizio and ROBE esports battling for the ultimate prize. Both teams have defied the odds, taken down favourites and rewritten narratives to earn their spot on this grand stage. Vizio’s calculated precision meets ROBE’s unrelenting chaos in a clash that promises heart-stopping plays, clutch heroics, and a legacy-defining moment. This isn’t just a game—it’s a battle to etch their names into ECL history. Nobody remembers who finished 2nd.   The time to step up is now! Vizio (6) and ROBE Esports (8) have two of the most improbable runs this ECL season to reach the Spring Pro Final. Vizio, the tactical underdogs, stunned Afterlife in a five-game semifinal thriller, leveraging their adaptability and goaltending dominance to outlast a powerhouse. Meanwhile, ROBE Esports, the tournament’s Cinderella story, shocked the world by outgunning the top-seeded Golden Buffalos in a grueling six-game upset. This final pits Vizio’s disciplined, opportunistic approach against ROBE’s high-octane, offensive juggernaut, setting the stage for a series that could hinge on a single save, goal, or moment of brilliance. With the championship on the line, the virtual ice will be a proving ground for heart, skill, and sheer will.   Vizio: The Tactical Titans Vizio has been the surprise of ECL '25, transforming from a mid-tier seed into a finals contender through strategic brilliance and unshakable chemistry. Captain @Artuzio, a playmaking wizard with skills to match, has been the architect of their success. His playoff stats—22 goals, 17 assists in 16 games—showcase his ability to carve through defenses and set up linemates like @Nieppii, who has 13 goals, including four game-winners. Vizio’s versatility is their superpower: they can grind out defensive battles, capitalize on counterattacks, or dominate possession with surgical precision, making them a matchup nightmare. On the backend, @juusoskari has emerged as a two-way star, logging 13 assists while anchoring Vizio’s penalty kill. His smooth breakouts and ability to join the rush give Vizio a dynamic edge, but his composure will be tested against ROBE’s relentless forecheck. In net, @SakkeTheEngineer has been a revelation, boasting an 80.54% save percentage and two shutouts, including one in Game 4 against Afterlife. His clutch performances give Vizio a goaltending edge, but their defensive structure must remain airtight to withstand ROBE’s offensive onslaught. Any lapse could spell disaster against a team as explosive as ROBE.   ROBE Esports: The Chaos Kings ROBE Esports has electrified the ECL community with their fearless, high-flying style, turning doubters into believers with every upset. Their Cinderella run—capped by victories over Almost Famous and the Golden Buffalos—has been fueled by raw offensive firepower and unrelenting grit. Star forward @punt1la98, a generational talent, leads the charge with a staggering 23 goals and 18 assists in 19 playoff games. His chemistry with linemates @jyrki456 and @Tihizu (69 combined playoff points) creates a top line that thrives on lightning-fast puck movement and audacious creativity. @punt1la98’s ability to shake defenders and deliver in crunch time makes him the most dangerous player in the final. Defensively, @lycki10 has been a game-changer, posting 33 points (7 goals, 26 assists) while quarterbacking ROBE’s lethal powerplay. His vision and willingness to jump into the rush fuel ROBE’s transition game, but his risk-taking can leave gaps that @aaksu17 must fill, his willingness to play the more defensive role has been a key to ROBE’s success. @Viltzup can be a menace, seen with his 81.75% save percentage and 2.63 GAA, which reflect his potential to steal games, as seen in his 13-save masterpiece in Game 5 against the Buffalos. However, his occasional soft goals could be a liability against Vizio’s seasoned attack. For ROBE to claim the title, their defense must step up, and @Viltzup needs to be at his absolute best.   Key Matchup: Precision vs. Pandemonium This final is a clash of opposites: Vizio’s disciplined, tactical approach against ROBE’s chaotic, offensive onslaught. Vizio’s ability to slow the game, control possession, and exploit ROBE’s defensive lapses will be crucial, especially in neutralizing @punt1la98’s wizardry. Conversely, ROBE’s aggressive forecheck and rapid transitions will test Vizio’s defensive structure, which has been good but not great. Goaltending could decide the series: @SakkeTheEngineer’s consistency gives Vizio a slight edge, but @Viltzup’s flair for heroics could swing a game or two. Special teams will also be pivotal, with ROBE’s excellent power play, facing the shaky penalty kill of Vizio. The team that wins the battle of discipline versus chaos will hoist the trophy and advance to the Elite division.   Players to Watch Vizio: @Nieppii The winger's vision and playmaking are the heartbeat of Vizio’s offense. If he can outmaneuver ROBE’s defense and create chances for his linemates, Vizio could dictate the series’ tempo. ROBE Esports: @punt1la98 The electrifying forward is ROBE’s X-factor, capable of single-handedly turning games with his speed and creativity. If he finds open ice, Vizio’s defense could be in for a long night.   Series Prediction @hifk_FANI: ROBE in 6 (4-2). “Vizio doesn’t have what it takes to match the firepower of ROBE.” @jm98II: ROBE in 6 (4-2). “Inside information says that ROBE has one-off game, but that this train is unstoppable.” @Pekedipeks: ROBE in 5 (4-1). “Vizio is not defensively sound enough to withstand the offensively talented ROBE.” @Pensasmies: ROBE in 6 (4-2). “Talent vs young talent”   Final Thoughts The ECL '25 Spring Pro Final is a dream matchup, pitting Vizio’s tactical brilliance against ROBE Esports’ relentless firestorm. Both teams have been underdogs, toppled titans, and earned their shot at glory. Will Vizio’s precision and goaltending prowess secure their first-ever title, or will ROBE’s Cinderella story culminate in a championship fairy tale? With every goal, save, and shift carrying the weight of history, this series promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Tune in to twitch.tv/reactiomedia and witness a final that will define the ECL '25 season.  

Over two months and 272 games later, the fight for ECL Elite Division title is down to just two teams. It's been a long road for these two teams to have made it here, and both sides have plenty on the line outside of just the championship trophy, but just four wins separates them from that coveted prize and only one will stand alone at the ECL's mountain top. A finals matchup this good, deserves a look back at each team's journey and a preview of the battle that they get set to face off in. And yes, some predictions of who we believe will walk out as champions of the Elite Division. So let's not waste any more time shall we? Let's dive into series preview and look back at how each side earned their way here. Last Dance Regular Season: 24-2-1-3 (77pts) - 1st in Elite Division 4-1 series win vs (8) Tohtorit 6-0 OTW, 2-3 OTL, 2-1 OTW, 4-2 W, 4-2 W 4-0 series win vs (4) EXEN 5-1 W, 7-3 W, 5-2 W, 3-2 W Season Summary Last Dance have been arguably the Elite Division's most consistent and dominant team throughout the Spring season, and their stellar form has now carried them to the Finals for the first time since the ECL '23: Spring season two years ago (this team was under the Frölunda HC brand). Overall, this team was able to make the regular season look like a breeze, and they continued that form in the playoffs. They have only lost two games this season by more than one goal. A 7-1 loss to Heimo on April 8 and a 3-1 loss to Parasite on April 23. They have also yet to lose back-to-back games this season and have only played in 10 one-goal games this season (including the playoffs). That dominance carried over for them in the postseason, as if it weren't for a late collapse in Game 2 vs Tohtorit, where Last Dance surrounded a 2-0 lead in the last 30 seconds of regulation to later lose in overtime, this team would be perfect so far in their playoff run. They ultimately were able to knock off a very respectable Tohtorit team in five games, and followed that up with a dominant semifinals victory of EXEN, sweeping them in the series and scoring 5+ goals in three of the four games. Storylines to Watch A Team Of Many Stories Coming into the season, there were multiple big talking points about this team. Would long lauded players such as Eki, Puantso, and Hansulinho finally be able to snap their lengthy championship droughts? What would the addition of NikkeDangles at RW and the reformation of Jamal and Lxndstrom on defense mean for this team? Last Dance answered all of these questions in style, as they were able to put together one of the most complete regular seasons that we've seen in the Elite Division. There was also the recent news of Eki's planned retirement, as he officially announced on his X account prior to the Quarterfinals that he intends to step away from competitive sixes (at least for the time being). It's currently unclear if Eki will be the only one calling it quits after this season, but regardless, Eki is one of the legendary names of the European esports scene. You can't tell the story of the ECL, or this club, without him. His last championship victory was in ECL 11 with FILADELPHIA nearly four years ago. This team will be eager to send him off with one final championship trophy. A Wealth of Championship Experience Another story with this group is their wide variety of championship and Finals experience. This team has players from 13 of the past 19 Elite championship teams. It shouldn't be a surprise that a club with an all-time record of 749-145-69 in 959 games has players on its roster with championship gold, but most teams could only dream of having this much championship success in its lineup. No matter what happens in this series, the moment will not be too big for this team. Even their lone two players without previous finals experience (more on them later) will have multiple players in their lineup to lean on while playing in the biggest series of their respective careers. Historically Great Offense Their three forwards of Nikke (87pts), Eki (81pts), and Puansto (73pts) all ranked Top 3 in the division points during the regular season, helping to charge Elite's highest-scoring offense at 4 GF/GP, which ranks tied for third in Elite Division history. They tied with Tunnel Vision in ECL 23 Winter, and only rank behind Parasite last season (5 GF/GP) and Linköping HC in ECL 10 (4.3 GF/GP). Interestingly enough, this Last Dance team has one player from both of those teams, as Eki was a part of Linköping HC, and NikkeDangles was with Parasite. They've actually picked up their scoring pace in the playoffs so far, as in nine playoff games, Last Dance are averaging 4.22 GF/GP. Long-Time Duo Makes Their Long-Awaited Finals Debut Along with sporting the division's best offensive attack, Last Dance were also one of the best teams in their own end as well. Their 2.13 GA/GP ranked third-best in Elite, trailing only Mythix (1.77 GA/GP) and Parasite (2 GA/GP). Though this stat is a team stat like any other, much credit must go to the additions of Lxndstrom and Jamal. The two long-time defense partners have a history that goes all the way back to ECL 11, where they were teammates at Hotbox in the Lite Division. The two continued to climb the ranks together, later moving up to the Pro Division with Hotbox and later Hokurit, and in the ECL 23 Winter season, the dynamic duo made the move up to the Elite Division with JYP Jyväskylä. Though they spent two seasons apart in the ECL 24 Spring and ECL 25 Winter campaigns, they came back together this season and have helped lead this team on the back end, and with their efforts, have earned their first-ever trip to the Elite Division finals. Watch the full interview on tonight's broadcast - starting at 19:00 CEST LIVE at twitch.tv/ReactioMedia! The Legend of Hansulinho Behind those two is the savvy veteran in net, Hansulinho. For a player who has a career save percentage of 82.36% in 346 starts, the multi-time champion has yet to see his game dip, as he was able to start all 30 games in the regular season while posting an 81.01 SV% and 2.13 GAA. No matter the season or situation, Hansulinho being one of the best goalies in the game feels like a constant, and when you consider the fact that his playoff numbers were even more impressive (84sv% and 1.78 GAA), it's easy to say that he is still one of the top goalies in all of Europe. Hansu's last title came in ECL 10 with HAVU GAMING, and it'll be just the second Finals that he's played in since. It wouldn't shock me in the slightest to see a vintage performance from one of the league's most accomplished goaltenders, and he'll certainly be someone to look out for in this series. Projected Starting Lineup LW - Ilmari @Puantso Lehkonen - (19 GP, 16 PTS, 11 GOALS, 5 ASSISTS, 47 SHOTS, 34 HITS) C - Erik @Eki Tammenpää - (9 GP, 22 PTS, 10 GOALS, 12 ASSISTS, 4 GWGs, 9 BLOCKED SHOTS, 51% FACEOFF WIN PERCENTAGE) RW - Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen - (9 GP, 17 PTS, 8 GOALS, 18 ASSISTS, 29 SHOTS, 27.6% SHOOTING PERCENTAGE) LD - Jimi @J-_-Jamaltheman Rönkkönen - (9 GP, 18 PTS, 4 GOALS, 14 ASSISTS, 47:03 TIME WITH THE PUCK, 32 HITS) RD - Aapeli @Lxndstrom Landström - (9 GP, 15 PTS, GOALS, 10 ASSISTS, 66 HITS, 28 TAKEAWAYS, 59 INTERCEPTIONS) G - Hannes @Hansulinho Kettunen - (9 GP, 84% SAVE PERCENTAGE, 1.78 GAA, 100 SHOTS FACED, 1 SHUTOUT, 16 SHUTOUT PERIODS) Mythix Regular Season: 19-4-2-5 (67pts) - 2nd in Elite Division 4-1 series win vs (7) SSK ESPORTS 2-1 OTW, 5-2 W, 2-1 OTL, 3-0 W, 3-2 OTW 4-2 series win vs (3) Parasite 2-1 L, 3-2 OTW, 2-1 OTW, 4-1 W, 5-4 OTL, 3-2 W Season Summary If you had told ECL fans back in March that in the next three months, Mythix would win the FCL Championship and then follow that up by making it to the ECL Elite Finals, few would've been likely to believe you. Yet despite many doubts, here they are, with a championship trophy and the chance to add one more. This has been one of the more pleasantly surprising stories that I can remember in my time covering the ECL, and it's safe to say now that Mythix are officially one of the best teams that Europe has to offer right now. Though many still believed that this team was a safe bet to make the playoffs, very few would've expected them to go on the run that they have. This is their third season of Elite division competition, and though they were able to make it to the playoffs in each of their first two campaigns, never were they seriously considered to be a legitimate championship threat. A pair of quick exits quarterfinals and a roster that lacked any previous playoff success seemed to back that belief coming into the season. Their key additions of Temppanen, Sokkelo, and Akunkku were meant to give this core a shake-up to hopefully push them into that next level, and to say that they've done that would probably be understating it. Mythix emerged as the best defensive team in the league this season, allowing just 1.71 GA/GP and pairing that with an offensive attack that averaged 3.5 GF/GP, good for second-best in the Division only behind Last Dance. Their standout regular season was enough to earn them the #2 seed, where they would take out another surprise story in SSK ESPORTS in the quarterfinal in five games, and would then go on to knock out the defending champions Parasite in a tight six-game series. Storylines to Watch Proven That They Belong What separates this team from some of the other "surprise" championship teams of the past is that very would've thought that this team would belong here not that long ago. Now, to be clear, it is very obvious that they do. You don't stumble your way into an FCL Championship, a #2 seeding in the ECL, and a Finals appearance by simply being lucky. This team is legitimately good, but what makes them so fun is that their roster is filled with players that prior to now, never had reached this level of success in their respective careers. Coming into this season, Mythix's roster had a combined zero playoff series wins in the Elite Division. To take that fact a step further, two of their players had never even played in the playoffs before in the Elite division prior to this season. See why this is all so crazy? Something clicked with this group in March during the FCL tournament, and ever since that point, they haven't seemed to look back. Whenever Mythix seems to be doubted, they've always found an answer. Thought that their FCL Championship was a fluke? They answered with a second-place regular season finish in ECL. Thought that they were fortunate to play an inexperienced team in the Quarterfinals? They responded by knocking off the defending champions in Parasite in the Semifinals, something that very few teams can say they've done. Mythix belongs here, and though they will almost certainly be the underdog in this Finals series, the one thing that you can't say is that they don't belong or don't deserve to be here. Doubt them at your own risk. Can They Meet Their Biggest Moment? As much as I would love to continue singing this team's praises, there is one palpable storyline that will be interesting to watch for, and that's the difference in experience between this team and their opponent. Last Dance have players on their roster who played on this stage countless times. This is nothing new to most of them, and they will be plenty adjusted to playing for a championship in front of the bright lights. Mythix, on the other hand, will be in totally new territory. Yes, they played in the FCL Finals and won, and that means something, but the ECL Finals are a little bit different. You aren't just playing to claim a championship within your country; this is a battle to call yourselves the best team in all of Europe, and arguably one of the best teams across the globe. A bigger audience and a bigger moment are palpable in this setting, and it's going to be something that Mythix has never been a part of before. There is no teacher like experience, and nothing can replace it. At the end of the day, Mythix can take on the mentality of it "just being another series", and that's probably the best mindset that they could have coming into this series. However, deep down, they know what is on the line. You can't avoid it, no matter how much you try to deny it and block it out. Mythix will have to embrace to moment and the big stage, while sticking to the principles that have gotten them to this point. It'll be interesting to see how Mythix's mindset is and how long it takes for them to get comfortable playing on this stage, especially during the early stages of the series. I personally believe that they will be fine, but we won't know for sure until the puck drops on Sunday. Special Teams Dominance You would be hard pressed to find a team that has been better on special teams than Mythix has this season. They led the division in both power play percentage (51.11%) and penalty kill percentage (87.8%) during the regular season. In fact, their power play actually ranks as the highest percentage in the history of the Elite division. Though their special team numbers have cooled off a touch in the playoffs, that's to be expected with how high their regular season stats were. All three of their forwards ranked in the Top 10 in power-play goals during the regular season, with Sokkelo having a league-high 12 power-play goals, which was five more than the next-best player. On the penalty kill, Mythix were actually called on a lot. This team took 82 PIMS during the regular season, which ranked tied for fourth-most in the league (ironically, the team that they tied with was Last Dance). Though no team wants to find themselves in the penalty box that often, there is some added comfort in knowing that you're good enough to clean up those mistakes without any harm being done on the scoreboard. It Takes Two Wings to Fly Both transfer additions over the offseason, Mythix winger duo of Temppanen and Sokkelo, have proven to be one of the best in the Elite division this season, have led the charge to what has become a truly potent offense for this team. And though Mythix's offense goes far beyond what their wingers are able to do on the left and right side of the ice, there's no denying that they're a key cog to what Mythix wants to do offensively, and their combined 16 game-winning goals during the regular season would back that up. Going back to the regular season, Sokkelo finished Top 5 in the division in both points (69) and goals (37), both of which rank as career bests for the veteran forward. Sokkelo is someone who, despite his lack of prior postseason success, has arguably been one of the more underrated forwards in the Elite division for a while. He's always been a consistent 40-point player on non-playoff teams, but when finally given the opportunity to play on a playoff caliber roster, he's shown that he's capable of doing even more than what he has in the past. This shouldn't come as a major surprise in hindsight, as despite playing on a Root Gaming team that was eventually relegated last season, Sokkelo finished the season with 32 goals, which ranked Top 10 in the division and accounted for 50% of Roots' goals scored. He's a legitimate goal-scorer, and he's fully hit his stride since joining this Mythix group. Temppanen, on the other hand, came over from a Voittamaton team is a constant championship threat and made it to the semifinals a season ago, and has been a part of a playoff team every season that he's been in the Elite Division. This season, however, has been undoubtedly some of his best work, though, as his 61 points and 31 goals both ranked Top 10 in the division. He's been arguably even better so far in the team's postseason run, as so far he's registered 15 goals and 10 assists for 25 points in 11 playoff games. He's also scored four game-winning goals for his team so far in this postseason. Watch the full interview on tonight's broadcast - starting at 19:00 CEST LIVE at twitch.tv/ReactioMedia! Can Anyone Take Down TeikDaun? Undoubtedly a contender for Goaltender of the Season, TeikDaun has, similarly to the rest of his teammates, emerged as one of the best players at his position with his play this season. During the Winter campaign, TeikDaun posted a 77.78 SV%, 2.8 GAA, and 4-6-0 record in 10 starts. He also didn't play in the team's playoff series against Voittamaton. With KDoneof1 transferring to Tohtorit during the offseason, however, the crease for Mythix became open. They opted not to add another goalie to their roster in the offseason, giving TeikDaun the opportunity to be the uncontested starter for his club and for the first time in his Elite division career. To say that this decision paid off for the club would be an understatement, as not only has he been a key contributor to their Finals run, but he's also placed himself in the conversation to be one of the league's top goaltenders. TeikDaun started in every game for his team so far this season, and his 83.49 SV%, 1.77 GAA, and five shutouts during the regular season all ranked the best of any goalie with at least 10 starts. His form has been just as stellar so far during the playoff run, as he's managed to earn an 85.29 SV% and 1.82 GAA in 11 starts, including one shutout. Few teams have been able to break past him this season, and we have seen special goaltending performances win championships in the Finals before. Can TeikDaun add himself to that list with legendary names? To do so, he'll have to step up in what could be his toughest test yet. Projected Starting Lineup LW - Teemu @temppanen Karvonen - (11 GP, 25 PTS, 15 GOALS, 10 ASSISTS, 42 SHOTS, 35.7% SHOOTING PERCENTAGE), 4 GWGs C - Miika @zMikkeez Kauppila - (11 GP, 15 PTS, 6 GOALS, 9 ASSISTS, 31 TAKEAWAYS, 11 BLOCKED SHOTS, 48.4% FACEOFF WIN PERCENTAGE) RW - Eemil @Sokkelo__ Soikkeli - (11 GP, 16 PTS, 6 GOALS, 10 ASSISTS, 42 SHOTS, 2 GWGs, 30 HITS) LD - Atte @Akunkku Kuningas - (11 GP, 11 PTS, 1 GOAL, 10 ASSISTS, 81:30 TIME WITH THE PUCK, 84.1% PASSING PERCENTAGE, 46 TAKEAWAYS, 78 INTERCEPTIONS) RD - Veeti @WeDuX_ Misikangas - (11 GP, 12 PTS, 3 GOALS, 9 ASSISTS, 6 SHOTS, 83.2% PASSING PERCENTAGE, 35 HITS, 12 BLOCKED SHOTS) G - Jani @TeikDaun Honkasaari - (11 GP, 85.29% SAVE PERCENTAGE, 1.82 GAA, 136 SHOTS FACED, 116 SAVES, 1 SHUTOUT, 24 SHUTOUT PERIODS) Predictions This is one of the more intriguing Finals matchups that I think we've seen in a while. It's the two top teams from the regular season, yet it's two completely different names than the Finals series that we've seen over the past two years. One side has a lineup that features multiple champions and names that are forever etched in the history of the ECL; the other side is a group that had never even won a playoff series in the division prior to this season, let alone made it to the Finals. Coming into this series, the consensus feeling is that Last Dance are the favorites heading into this series. That is probably to be expected, as they've been the most consistent, and dominant team in the division and have yet to show any signs of weakness at any point this season. They also are the more experienced team and won both meetings in the regular season (4-2 and 4-3). However, this doesn't mean that Mythix can't pull off a series win. Will it be difficult? Yes. Would it be an upset? Probably, but it doesn't mean that it can't happen, and in fact, I would argue that the narrative of this series going into it, probably plays right into Mythix's hands because of that. This team has nothing to lose compared to Last Dance. No one expected them to be here, fewer expect them to win, and some don't even believe that they belong in the Finals to begin with. They're out here to do what they've done all season. Prove themselves right, while proving their doubters wrong. Last Dance, on the other hand, have all of the pressure. They are the favorites who are expected to win. They have multiple players on their roster who haven't won an ECL Championship in over four years and two who have never won one at all. They're the #1 overall seed and have been the dominant force in this division. And the big one, their captain and one of the most accomplished players in the history of NHL esports, is retiring at season's end. Last Dance has an undeniable amount of pressure, while Mythix, though they have the pressure of playing for a title, are basically playing with house money, knowing that few expect them to be here and even fewer expect them to beat Last Dance four times. Only one of these teams will go home truly satisfied, though at the end of the night, and the one that doesn't, though proud of their season's work, will have the undeniable feeling of disappointment from knowing that they just fell short of European 6v6's biggest prize. @bMaJuH: Last Dance in 6 @Mozjayh: Last Dance in 6 @sopulii_: Last Dance in 7 @Allupekkaz: Last Dance in 5 @antoniomannen004: Last Dance in 6 @Vattuyy: Last Dance in 5 @wengerii: Last Dance in 5 Tune in to the Finals Tonight! The ECL '25: Spring - Elite Champion is decided tonight live at twitch.tv/ReactioMedia, so be sure to tune in and enjoy this nail-biter of a series hosted by Brandon @bMaJuH Bigsby and Lauri @sopulii_ Enström. The broadcast starts at 19:00 CEST and will feature the full best-of-seven series, along with some other goodies, such as interviews and the ECL '25: Spring - Elite Awards. See you there! Want to keep up with everything happening in the ECL this season? Make sure to follow/subscribe to us on Twitch, YouTube, and X.

The first round of the ECL' 25: Spring - Core Playoffs has now been completed, and as in every season, there were surprises in this round. Going into the first round, the clear favorites were the teams that won their own regular season groups: HC Purijat, Armeijan Kuri, Harhapassi, and Dynamo HC. Of these, the only one who managed to get a sweep was Purijat. When it comes to surprises, third-placed Harhapassi struggled when they faced a team called Mieskissat. Mieskissat, which barely made it to the playoffs in their own group as the last qualifier, did not let the preconceptions affect their performance, but focused on bringing their best to the series despite being clear underdogs, and they managed to shock the Harhapassi team. Some other surprising results were seen, for example, in the series Sopranos vs. Nordic Knights, where Sopranos were also expected to advance directly, but the opposite happened. Let's go through some of the first round results and successful players. HC Purijat - TeNo (4 - 0) Purijat was a clear favorite going into this series, and the first-placed team in the entire regular season did not disappoint. The first two games ended with a goal difference of 10-3, as the team secured clear wins on the first match day with results 5-2 and 5-1, and on the second match da,y the advancement was secured with results 5-1 and 7-3. Successful players: @nuariatte 10+5 @Tuhoaja542 9+3 @Japemode 86.79% 1.75 GAA Armeijan Kuri - Zamboni Zorros (4 - 1) Armeijan Kuri showed excellent team play in the regular season, scoring just over 4 goals per game and conceding only 2.17 goals per game. The same continued in the first round of the playoffs. 25 goals scored and only 10 conceded indicated a huge difference in team play between the teams, and Zamboni Zorros simply could not match this. An easy 4-1 series win and Armeija marches on to the second round. Successful players: @hefezuk85 6+12 @MutainenMalik 10+7 @WIRTAAZKIN47 6+10 @kasuri1 88.1% 2 GAA Harhapassi - Mieskissat (2 - 4) As mentioned earlier, the favorite to advance from this series was Harhapassi. The team won their group while Mieskissat barely made it to the playoffs, yet they were able to give full resistance. The series surprisingly started with two straight wins by the underdog, though the games were close (5-3, 2-4). Harhapassi managed to open their win count only in the third game by beating Mieskissat in overtime 4-3. Mieskissat then immediately returned to the winning track with a high-scoring game 6-3, and Harhapassi narrowly won the next one 1-0. In the last encounter, many goals were scored as Mieskissat secured the upset with a 7-5 win. Successful players: @majavanaama50 10+7 @karhuperuna 5+10 @Muro (Murotkulhoss) 6+8 @Timo Silakka (SilakanTimo) 8+5 Dynamo HC - Siniviiva Snipers (4 - 1) Dynamo HC, placed fourth in the regular season, faced Siniviiva Snipers. Contrary to expectations, the games were surprisingly close. Three games ended 2-1 and two ended 3-1, with Dynamo HC winning the series 4-1. This series was entirely a goaltender battle, with keepers keeping the games tight until the end. For this reason, both goalies had to be included among the successful players. Successful players: @grontti88 86.64% 2 GAA @Calxm41 91.67% 1.4 GAA @Harten7 4+4 Conexion - Backcheck Boys (4 - 1) Conexion, which finished second in their group with the same points as the group winner, faced the worst-ranked seventh team. Conexion advanced convincingly to a 3-0 series lead, until Backcheck Boys managed to turn Game 4 in their favor 6-4. This was a very rare result since Conexion had only conceded 1.58 goals per game in the regular season. Somewhat angered by this, Conexion scored 7 goals in the final match and advanced to the second round. Successful players: @Jaks_10 (Jaksii_) 8+10 @Sweden2233 (SwedenFtW99) 8+9 @Jon LoL (itsWalsy) 7+5 Skyfall - HC Korobka (4 - 2) Skyfall, which was very strong in the regular season, scoring the second most goals of all teams, had to fight until the sixth game against HC Korobka. The key factors for Skyfall’s series win were Mikse94 and stu_rulez. In 6 games, these gentlemen scored a total of 20 goals and 25 assists against Korobka, sealing Skyfall's advancement. Successful players: @Mikse94 12+11 @stu_rulez 8+14 @lordkomar91 13+6 Nordic Nosebleed - Wildcats esports I (4 - 0) Looking at Nordic Nosebleed's roster, highlighting players like Eliekamel_ (who has previously played at Elite and Pro levels), Jean-Claes (a goalie with 85% save percentage at ECL 24 Winter and ECL 25 Winter Core levels), and cherrykicks (experienced at Lite level), the 4-0 series win was not surprising. Nordic Nosebleed, which has played nearly 700 ECL games, took an easy 4-0 series win and can confidently await their next opponent. A surprise was that the experienced Eliekamel did not play any games in the first round; only the team knows why. Successful players: @Lidaas79 8+7 @Sayatu14 5+5 @Jean-Claes 83.67% 2 GAA VBO Stars - Pulp Odyssey (4 - 2) The VBO and Odyssey series was predicted in favor of VBO mainly due to VBO’s scoring efficiency and defensive play. This was confirmed during the series where VBO conceded only three or more goals in two games, while their regular season GAA was 2.6. Odyssey managed to keep their GAA under the regular season average only once. VBO scored 20 goals in six games against Odyssey, which was too much for Pulp Odyssey. The series’ top scorer was nilsson04_, who scored half of VBO Stars’ goals. Successful players: @Nilsson04_ 10+4 @Valosaari92 9+4 @Liimp_92 84.47% 2.67 GAA Viitapohja Vikings - Beer Bears (3 - 4) Viitapohja Vikings met the already familiar Beer Bears, with both teams having played in the same group. The regular season game ended with points going to the Vikings, winning the first game clearly 6-3 and turning the second game in overtime 6-5. The playoff series provided entertainment all the way to the seventh game. Viitapohja started with two straight wins with a goal difference of 9-2, but Beer Bears responded with two wins of their own with a goal difference of 10-3. The series went to a decisive seventh game where defenses were forgotten and a scoring competition started, which Beer Bears won 9-6. Successful players: @Tolliikkii (Tolliikkii) 14+6 @Atte Mathlin (SpeedyMcQueen64) 9+9 @Liimiz 10+8 Fallen Rangers - Auramo Hockey Club (4 - 1) Fallen Rangers is a team made up of players from Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Despite limited ECL experience, the team showed strong performance already in the regular season, finishing third in their group and maintaining a very high goals scored average (GF/GP: 5.21), indicating a very strong offense, but with some defensive weaknesses as they conceded just over three goals per game. Fallen Rangers defeated Auramo Hockey Club 4-1 by being more efficient offensively. How their scoring stands out in the second round will be interesting to see. Successful Players: @Sebko99 4+4 @Kiso69 5+1 @X-STE3FANO-X 85.19% 3GAA Sopranos - Nordic Knights (2 - 4) Sopranos’ player roster compared to Nordic Knights was like night and day. With experience at all series levels, including Elite and Pro, combined with a very strong goalie, Sopranos were expected to dominate. Nordic Knights’ roster mainly consisted of players who have played at NEO, CORE, and LITE levels, so the expectations for this Swedish team were not high. Knights got into trouble early when Sopranos won the first two games to take a 2-0 lead. The third game (the turning point of the series) went into overtime, which Knights won in the final moments with less than 4 minutes left in the first overtime. The games continued tightly, but with four straight wins (2-3 OT, 3-2, 3-4, 3-2), Knights surprisingly advanced to the second round. Successful players: @Jjomppa (jjombbaa) 7+6 @Elis is real 5+7 @sk1y 4+6 Prowlers - Taifun Veterans (4 - 1) Prowlers is also a team with many PRO-level players, so the favorite status was unquestionable. The player quality was the biggest deciding factor here, as Prowlers sent Taifun Veterans home in five games with a goal difference of 29-15. mayX-swe’s excellent faceoff percentage (59.1) combined with the team’s cohesive offense secured an easy 4-1 series win. Successful players: @RHannu 9+15 @mayX-swe 8+14 @jokkz- 11+7 HC Lisko - Bare Knuckles Hockey (2 - 4) There was no clear favorite in this series, and this was reflected on the ice. Goals were scored by both teams, and the series could have gone either way. This time Bare Knuckles Hockey’s efficient duo Taikatomi and GoDe45 managed to turn the series in their favor. Especially prolific goal scorer Taikatomi scored 10 of the team’s 22 goals. Successful players: @taikatomi 10+7 @GoDe45 3+13 @Vertti91 5+7 HC Vilttimiehet - Nam3less (4 - 2) The Vilttimiehet - Nam3less series was the second goaltender battle of the first round, with few goals scored. Both teams played excellent defense, and with good goaltending as a lock, it was a very tight series. HC Vilttimiehet succeeded better in these close games and won the series 4-2. Successful players: @s-ultz-i 87.64% 1.83 GAA @Jiihooo86 91.25% 1.17 GAA @Deussi_ (DeusManiz) 6+2 @Jnmxxx (jimmiNOhands) 4+2 Kelagoldcard HC - Surte Sisu HC (4 - 0) The series was fairly balanced going in, and there was no clear favorite. However, Kelagoldcard HC showed themselves to be the team wanting the second-round spot more. Kelagoldcard HC advanced with results (2-4, 3-2, 2-3, 6-2). Successful players: @karjalainensamul 82.22% 2 GAA @Leevijopo01 6+5 @1mmu9 6+4 @SWE_KARLSSON16 4+3 Capetown Kings - Koppibuutti (4 - 1) My personal opinion was that this series would go to game 7. However, Capetown managed to turn a first-game loss into a four-game winning streak. The games were not clear except for the 4-1 win, as the other matches were relatively low scoring and ended with a one- or two-goal difference or went to overtime. Capetown Kings used two goalies in the series, with Randomjanne playing well, supported by good defense. The other goalie, Jorkka82, had a save percentage of 80.6% and conceded 6 goals in three games, while Janne had 85.71% and three goals against. Successful players: @Jonza1990 (Hatsigaboom) 5+8 @sambleri 4+7 @Randomjanne 85.71% 1.5 GAA Playoff round 2 matchups! All matches from the first round have now been played, and the teams are ready to fight for a spot in the top eight. Here are the upcoming matchups, and we await to see whether there will be surprises in this round as well, or if the teams who played excellently in the regular season will take the wins. HC Purijat vs Mieskissat Armeijan Kuri vs Beer Bears Dynamo HC vs Nordic Knights Conexion vs Bare Knuckles Hockey Skyfall vs Capetown Kings Nordic Nosebleed vs Kelagoldcard HC VBO Stars vs HC Vilttimiehet Fallen Rangers vs Prowlers

Following a review of the events surrounding the SCL 6v6 semifinal series between teams Spartan family and The Solution, the Regional League Administration is issuing the following official ruling based on the match timeline, rulebook, and communication from both parties. Any quotes mentioned in this article have been translated from Swedish to English and may have been paraphrased to cut to the chase. Teams will be referenced as  Background The semifinal series was originally scheduled to be played between Sunday and Tuesday.   Spartan family requested to play Sunday, but The Solution was unavailable. Both teams then agreed to play Monday and Tuesday at 21:30 CEST.   On Monday, just before the scheduled start, EA servers went down, making gameplay impossible.   To resolve the situation and maintain scheduling for the finals on Thursday, the League granted a one-day extension, allowing the series to be completed on Wednesday.   Refusal to Play on Tuesday Although Tuesday was one of the originally agreed match days, The Solution refused to play, stating they only wanted to play all 5 games either Tuesday or Wednesday — but not split.   Spartan family could not accommodate a full BO5 on either day due to their players participating in ECL Pro Qualifier matches, where they represent SSK Esports.   Despite the League’s effort to propose flexible solutions, The Solution refused to compromise, and expressed frustration claiming Spartan family were receiving “special treatment” due to their "Pro status".   While it’s understandable that players may have real-life commitments, the tone and unwillingness to cooperate gave the Administration the impression that The Solution was not engaging constructively in rescheduling efforts.   Scheduling Compromise for Wednesday To accommodate both sides, the Administration proposed the following: Play would begin at 20:00 CEST with up to 3 games. A break at 21:30 would allow Spartan family to play their ECL Pro Qualifier matches. Any remaining games would resume around 22:30.   The Solution did not oppose this proposal or suggest alternatives, replying only: “We meet 20 to play 3 and we will see then.”   Matchday: Wednesday At 20:00, Spartan family began searching for the first game and messaged The Solution.   With no reply received, Spartan family declared a walkover win for Game 1 at 20:16, in line with the rulebook’s 15-minute lateness rule.   At 20:17, The Solution responded: “ok, see you at 20.30.” The Solution joined the lobby at 20:39 — 39 minutes after the agreed start time, and with no explanation for the delay.   While the walkover could be viewed as slightly strict, the combination of The Solution’s refusal to play on Tuesday, poor communication, and disregard for the 20:00 start time left the Administration with no choice.   Games 2 and 3 were played without further issues.   At 21:30, Spartan family left for their ECL Pro Qualifier matches, as previously agreed. During this time, The Solution began searching and messaging that Spartan family were not showing up — despite the pre-scheduled break.   Spartan family returned around 22:30 to continue the series, but The Solution had left and refused to complete the remaining games.   Ruling Summary Game 1 is awarded to Spartan family by Walkover The Solution did not communicate within the allowed 15-minute window. Their eventual arrival was 39 minutes late, without explanation. While the walkover was declared at the edge of the 15-minute window and could be viewed as strict, the refusal to play on Tuesday, poor communication, and failure to notify of delays made the decision warranted.   Games 2 and 3 are considered valid and played results.   Remaining games are forfeited by The Solution The structure of the night — including the break at 21:30 — was agreed to in advance. The Solution did not raise concerns beforehand, nor give a valid reason for leaving and refusing to continue. This constitutes a clear forfeit of the remaining games.   Spartan family are awarded the series win and advance to the Finals.   Closing Notes The Regional League Administration always strives to ensure that series are decided on the ice, not off it. Unfortunately, due to a combination of a server outage, scheduling conflicts, poor cooperation, and tight finals and qualifier deadlines, a ruling was required to keep the competition on track.   We would like to remind all teams: Respect the match schedule and your opponents’ time. Communicate proactively and clearly with both your opponent and the League. Be willing to compromise when scheduling conflicts arise — especially in the playoffs.   We thank both teams for their efforts this season and wish Spartan family and Sunne IK Esport the best of luck in the Finals tonight.   — Regional League Administration

ECL '25: Winter - Elite Individual Player Award Winners SportsGamers, It's time to recap the ECL Elite Player Awards for the Winter '25 season! With six categories and five players with remarkable season in each, winners were announced on the ECL '25: Winter - Elite Finals @ Assembly broadcast and in this article we want to showcase the winners for easy access to the history books in the future. For the full list of nominees, see our previous article. Below you'll find a list of winners in each category: Forward of The Season The Top Forward award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their forward position. Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen, Parasite Defender of The Season The Top Defender award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their defenseman position. Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila, Parasite Goalie of The Season The Top Goalie award is awarded to a player who has excelled above the competition in their goaltender position. Stan @Stammer70 Adamus, Tohtorit Rookie of The Season The Rookie Of The Season award is awarded to a player in their rookie ECL Elite season, who has excelled above the competition regardless of position. Veeti @LatveX Laitinen, Mustaa Kultaa Transfer of The Season The Transfer Of The Season award is awarded to a player who after a transfer is deemed to have been the most impactful player for their new team. Aaro @xAaro89x Arvala, Mustaa Kultaa Comeback Player of The Season The Comeback Player Of The Season award is awarded to a player who after one or more seasons away from ECL Elite competition, makes an impactful comeback to the highest level. Theo @itspardytime Pardy, TIKI TALK