ECL '25: Winter - Core | Playoffs: Round 1 Preview - ECL

The ECL '25 Winter Core playoffs are finally here, and the battle for supremacy is set to unfold in an intense best-of-seven format. After an action-packed group stage, the top 32 teams are ready to prove themselves on the big stage. This year’s playoff field features a mix of dominant favorites, dark horse challengers, and hungry underdogs looking to upset the balance of power. Each team will need to rely on their star players, tactical depth, and mental resilience to navigate through the grueling rounds of competition.

At the forefront are top-seeded teams like Silver Sword Griffins and Dynamo HC, both of whom showcased their dominance in the group stage with impeccable performances. The Griffins, led by the dynamic duo of LATMinx and Martinssilins, are an offensive juggernaut that poses a serious challenge for any opponent. Dynamo HC, on the other hand, boasts a more balanced approach, anchored by Harten87’s scoring brilliance and Galxm86’s stellar goaltending, making them a top contender for the title.

Other teams like Maitojuna, with their explosive trio of Minaolenmakke, Annttone, and RAMIFIN, and Lutunilkat, powered by the chemistry of Mikkihiiri-- and Pyssyh, are also expected to go deep into the playoffs. However, the best-of-seven format allows for surprises, and lower-seeded teams with standout players—such as Stu_rulez from SKYFALL or Stimperi from Karmadillos—could make life difficult for the top teams.

Goaltending will also play a pivotal role in determining playoff success. Calxm86 (Dynamo HC), Hiatala_ (Lutunilkat), and sMiiga (PANIC ON ICE) enter the playoffs as some of the top-performing goalies from the group stage, and their ability to remain consistent under pressure could be the difference in tight series. At the same time, goalies like MarvinJVfL1848 (EV Duisburg) and MikkeH (MIESKISSAT) will need to deliver standout performances to give their teams a shot against overwhelming odds.

Core Division Playoff schedule (BO7)

Round of 32: January 5th – 9th
Round of 16: January 12th – 16th
Quarterfinals: January 19th – 23rd
Semifinals: January 26th – 30th
Finals: February 2nd – 3rd

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ROUND OF 32 PREVIEW

Silver Sword Griffins (1) vs. EV Duisburg (32)

Silver Sword Griffins come into this series as the top seed and overwhelming favorites. Their offensive duo of LATMinx and martinssilins was dominant in the group stage, combining for over 100 points. Supporting them is goaltender gacorigavecit17, who posted a stellar 1.88 GAA and will look to stifle EV Duisburg’s limited offensive threats.

For EV Duisburg, the spotlight falls on their leading scorer, GreatOne139, who will need to find ways to crack the Griffins’ defense. Goaltender MarvinJVfL1848 faces an uphill battle, but a standout performance from him could help Duisburg stay competitive. However, with Duisburg’s 79.67% team save percentage and a defense that allowed 80 goals in the group stage, it’s hard to see them keeping pace over a seven-game series.

Prediction: Silver Sword Griffins advance (4–0)

Dynamo HC (2) vs. MIESKISSAT (31)

Dynamo HC’s balanced roster makes them one of the favorites to win it all, and they’re expected to sweep this series. Harten7, their leading scorer with 63 points, will likely lead the offensive charge alongside Dcon2Silly. In net, Calxm86 boasts the league’s best numbers with an 87.55% save percentage, providing Dynamo with unmatched defensive security.

MIESKISSAT enters as a heavy underdog. Their top scorer, Kaittssuuu, will need to have the series of his life, supported by key contributions from secondary players like Sarsson. Goalie MikkeH, who struggled in the group stage with a 75% save percentage, must elevate his game to stand a chance against Dynamo’s relentless attack.

Prediction: Dynamo HC advances (4–0)

Maitojuna (3) vs. Reckless Panthers (30)

This series pits Maitojuna’s high-scoring offense against the defensive-minded Reckless Panthers. Maitojuna’s trio of Minaolenmakke, Annttone, and RAMIFIN combined for over 200 points in the group stage, making them the most potent offensive line in the playoffs. Goaltender FeikkiNambo provides additional confidence with his 87.15% save percentage.

The Reckless Panthers will lean heavily on their defensive structure and the goaltending of Just-Boopi. While their offense, led by Powerdonald99, struggled at times, finding ways to counter Maitojuna’s firepower will be essential. Boopi in particular, will need to raise his game significantly, as his group-stage save percentage of 76% won’t be enough to withstand the onslaught Maitojuna can deliver.

Prediction: Maitojuna advances (4–1)

Lutunilkat (4) vs. RAIDERS HC (29)

Lutunilkat’s dynamic offense, driven by Mikkihiiri-- and Pyssyh, should give them a clear edge in this matchup. Their chemistry and ability to score in key moments make them a tough team to contain. Goaltender Hiatala_, with his 84.95% save percentage, will need to remain sharp to prevent RAIDERS HC from finding any momentum.

RAIDERS HC will rely on XHowe X 9 to lead their offense. As their leading scorer, XHowe must create opportunities and capitalize on power-play chances. On the defensive side, Duff_Man2309 needs to deliver big performances in goal to keep the series competitive. RAIDERS HC has shown resilience in the group stage, but their defensive inconsistencies could cost them in a longer series.

Prediction: Lutunilkat advances (4–1)

Tikitaka (5) vs. BACKCHECK BOYS (28)

Tikitaka enters the series as heavy favorites with a balanced roster. Ratamursu69 and Tanskungen lead their offensive efforts, while goaltender HakkisBro’s strong performances have provided a solid foundation. Their ability to play a structured game should allow them to dominate BACKCHECK BOYS.

For BACKCHECK BOYS, the key to success lies in finding offensive production from Ydstie99 and defensive stability from goalie Davvem26. However, with a 77.4% save percentage in the group stage, Davvem will need to elevate his game to keep Tikitaka’s scorers in check.

Prediction: Tikitaka advances (4–1)

PANIC ON ICE (6) vs. The Solution (27)

PANIC ON ICE comes into the series with one of the most dangerous offensive units in the league, led by wpaananen, who tallied an incredible 78 points during the group stage. Supported by moikka11 and OMG_ImSoBad, this trio is poised to dominate The Solution. Goalie sMiiga’s steady play will ensure defensive consistency.

The Solution’s hopes rest on the shoulders of their top scorer, skillfull85, and goaltender Liimp_92. While skillfull will need to create offensive opportunities against a superior opponent, Liimp must dramatically improve his save percentage to keep the games competitive.

Prediction: PANIC ON ICE advances (4–0)

Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki (7) vs. HC Ohiveto (26)

Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki’s well-rounded play gives them the upper hand in this series. Kalsarikalle123 and OUTO HYYPIO lead the offensive charge, while goaltender Larde64 provides a reliable presence in net with his 86.13% save percentage.

HC Ohiveto will look to their star forward Hefezuk85 to lead the offense, but they’ll also need secondary contributions from players like LeMagnifigue2. In net, kasuri1 must step up and improve upon his 79.92% save percentage to give HC Ohiveto a fighting chance.

Prediction: Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki advances (4–1)

KOST Wolves (8) vs. The Ghillie Gang (25)

This could be one of the tighter series in Round 1. KOST Wolves’ offense, powered by freez_skillers77 and MaroulCZE, has the depth and firepower to outlast The Ghillie Gang. Goalie Lazan31 will need to maintain focus to prevent the Gang from building momentum.

For The Ghillie Gang, XWilssoni must lead the way offensively, while goalie Janucek needs to deliver standout performances to keep his team competitive. The Wolves’ depth gives them the advantage, but the Gang’s grit could push the series to six or seven games.

Prediction: KOST Wolves advance (4–2)

CapeTown Kings (9) vs. Taskubilis (24)

CapeTown Kings come into this series as the favorites, boasting a potent offense led by sambleri and Peenkuins, who combined for nearly 100 points in the group stage. Their power play was one of the best in the league, converting close to 30% of their opportunities. Moneygunx will need to stay sharp in goal, as Taskubilis has the firepower to challenge them.

Taskubilis, while the lower seed, has offensive threats in Jalitmane10 and Mida13, who both had strong group-stage performances. Their goaltender Lyynas will need to be at his best to withstand the Kings' offensive onslaught. If Taskubilis can capitalize on defensive mistakes, they may be able to stretch this series.

Prediction: CapeTown Kings advance (4–2)

Sopranos (10) vs. Salaseura (23)

This matchup is expected to be tightly contested, with Sopranos bringing a structured, two-way approach led by asaastamo. Their ability to maintain possession and control the tempo will be key in breaking down Salaseura’s defensive setup.

Salaseura will lean on JAMJAM923 and Old_33 to create offense while keeping the Sopranos' attack in check. Aivokuollut_ in goal had an impressive group stage, and if he can maintain that form, this series could go the distance.

Prediction: Sopranos advance (4–3)

Turun Gasellit (11) vs. SKYFALL (22) SKYFALL

Turun Gasellit had a strong group stage, finishing 3rd in Group 3. Pohjarzinho and johtaja_lebi, who will need to maintain their scoring form. Their goaltender SirRaitanen had a solid but unspectacular campaign, and this will be a big test for him against SKYFALL’s explosive attack.

SKYFALL’s offense is led by stu_rulez who put up 64 points in the group stage. If he and Koutsinaattori continue their scoring form, SKYFALL could pull off an upset. However, their defense allowed nearly 3.5 goals per game in the group stage, and Stolid-Goalie will need to step up significantly.

Prediction: Turun Gasellit advance (4–3)

ARMEIJAN KURI (12) vs. HC Last Resort (21)

ARMEIJAN KURI is one of the strongest defensive teams in the tournament, allowing just 2.27 goals per game in the group stage. MutainenMalik and Wirta88 provide the backbone of their structure, while KunKKu_1998 has been rock solid in net.

HC Last Resort will look to Tolliikkii and ESSRV to provide scoring, but their defense will need to step up against ARMEIJAN KURI’s well-structured gameplay. Vxxlle-_- in goal will need to have a standout series for HC Last Resort to pull off an upset.

Prediction: ARMEIJAN KURI advance (4–1)

Koppibuutti (13) vs. Karmadillos (20)

Koppibuutti relies on their structured gameplay and solid goaltending from Adelyn10. Nixa666 leads their offense with a strong supporting cast, and their disciplined defensive approach gives them an edge in this matchup.

Karmadillos, however, are one of the highest-scoring teams in the playoffs. Stimperi finished the group stage with 60 points, and Julmuri89 has been a key contributor. If they can break through Koppibuutti’s defense, this series could be closer than expected.

Prediction: Koppibuutti advances (4–2)

Nordic Nosebleed (14) vs. Pulp Odyssey (19)

Nordic Nosebleed had a solid group stage, finishing 4th in Group 2. Jcarlton89 and Sayatu14 lead their attack, and Jean-Claes provides steady goaltending. They are a balanced team with no glaring weaknesses, which could serve them well in a best-of-seven format.

Pulp Odyssey, meanwhile, has relied on strong defensive play to reach this stage. Risbe85 has been their standout offensive player, but they will need more scoring depth to compete in this series. Goaltender IrJe2023, who posted an 84.93% save percentage in the group stage, will need to continue his strong play.

Prediction: Nordic Nosebleed advance (4–2)

Rusty X Rusty X (15) vs. NAM3LESS (18)

This is one of the closest matchups in Round 1. Rusty X relies on defensive discipline, with Kasterly_ leading their offense and ksilentt providing strong goaltending. Their ability to shut down high-powered teams could make them a dark horse in the playoffs.

NAM3LESS, on the other hand, plays a more aggressive style. jimmiNOhands is their key playmaker, and Altsu123 provides additional scoring punch. Their defense, however, has been inconsistent, and goaltender SaberLionZero will need to elevate his game to counter Rusty X’s ofensive setup.

Prediction: Rusty X advances (4–3)

KELAGOLDCARD HC (16) vs. Prowlers (17)

This is another evenly matched series, with both teams finishing mid-table in their respective groups. KELAGOLDCARD HC relies on Romurallimies and leevijopo01 to generate offense, while K3mpny will need to be steady in goal.

Prowlers, led by the dynamic RHannu, who netted 43 goals in the group stage, have the firepower to win this series. However, their defense has been shaky, conceding over 3.3 goals per game. Goaltender p3h4 will need to find his best form to ensure Prowlers can withstand KELAGOLDCARD’s attack.

Prediction: Prowlers advance (4–3)

With the schedule set and anticipation building, it’s time for the action to begin. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will fall short? The race to the ECL '25 Winter Core championship is officially underway—let the games begin!

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