The wait is finally over – the most exciting esports hockey tournament in Europe is back! ECL '25: Winter kicks off today, and we’re ready to dive into another thrilling season. Whether you’ve been eagerly awaiting the return of the league or just tuning in for the first time, now’s the time to get involved. Power up those devices, because the competition is about to heat up!
In this preview, we will go through the teams and key players competing in the fiercely contested second tier of the Sportsgamer ladder – the prestigious ECL. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, this season promises plenty of action both on and off the ice. Stay tuned as we break down what’s in store for ECL 25 Spring!
This article was co-written by @hifk_FANI & @Pensasmies
Group 1
Title Contenders:
Gotham Knights
The Gotham Knights are no strangers to the Pro scene, and this season, they’re more determined than ever to reclaim their Elite spot. With a roster that’s consistently near the top, they’ve made one of the biggest moves in the offseason by signing the skillful winger @LucePro last season, LucePro racked up an impressive 36 goals and 27 assists, and with his arrival, Gotham now boasts one of the most potent offensive lines in the league. This added firepower could be the key to putting them back in the Elite ranks where they’ve so often belonged. However, they’ll need to stay consistent throughout the season and avoid any slip-ups in their bid to reclaim their spot.
Gotham’s core players are familiar with the pressure of being near the top, but this season feels like the one where they’ll finally take that next step. They’ll need to rely on their established defensive unit and experienced leadership, but with the addition of a proven scorer in LucePro, they’ve significantly upgraded their firepower. If everything clicks, the Gotham Knights could be a force to be reckoned with.
Nordic Stars
After taking a brief hiatus from the ECL scene, the Nordic Stars made a spectacular return last season, winning ECL Lite and sweeping the newly-founded Zenegeim . Their return to the league was a true statement of intent. However, this season will be different for the Nordic Stars, as they will likely play without their veteran playmaker @Vire30 for much of the season. Vire30 has been an integral part of the team’s success, and his absence raises questions about how the team will adjust.
Without Vire30, the Nordic Stars will need to rely on the rest of their roster to step up. Fortunately, they still have a strong lineup, with key players capable of carrying the load. The forwards will need to continue their elite-level play to fill the void. The Nordic Stars' ability to adapt to these changes could determine how they perform this season. If they can remain as dominant without Vire30, they’ll still be a top contender in Group 1.
Deep Playoff Teams:
Deadly Phantoms
The Deadly Phantoms are a team that has been knocking on the door of playoff success for some time now, but they’ve yet to break through in a meaningful way. Last season, they had a rough outing in the Pro playoffs, crashing out early despite having a strong regular season. This season, they’re eager to prove that last year’s playoff exit was a fluke and that they belong among the league's elite.
With the same core group of players returning, the Deadly Phantoms will be looking to fine-tune their game and take that next step forward. If they can find consistency and continue to build chemistry, the Deadly Phantoms will be a formidable opponent for any team in the Pro division.
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Zenegeim
Zenegeim showed great promise in their debut season. After a tough loss to the Nordic Stars in the finals, they are hungry to prove themselves this season. What sets them apart is the addition of one of the best defenders in the league, @MCH_98 . Known for his stellar defensive play and ability to control the pace of the game, MCH_98 will provide an instant boost to Zenegeim’s back end. His leadership and vision will be vital as they look to challenge the best teams in Group 1.
Zenegeim's roster is brimming with talent, and now with MCH_98 in the mix, they have the potential to go toe-to-toe with any team in Pro. If their chemistry continues to improve, they could be one of the most dangerous teams in the group. The question will be whether they can overcome the mental hurdle of last season’s sweep in the playoffs and use that experience to their advantage.
SSK eSports
SSK eSports may still be considered a relatively new roster, but the Swedish squad proved last season that they have all the tools to be a serious contender. Their journey to the playoffs last year showed glimpses of their potential, and with a solid foundation, they’re poised for an even stronger campaign in the upcoming season.
But what really sets SSK apart is their team chemistry. While many previews tend to highlight standout individuals, it's the collective effort that makes SSK such a tough team to beat. The players seem to always be on the same page, knowing where each other will be at any given moment. This type of synergy is crucial, especially in tight games, where the smallest miscommunication can cost a team the win. Expect to see a lot of set plays off faceoffs and a disciplined, tight defensive structure that frustrates opponents. If SSK can maintain their cohesion and tactical sharpness, they could be one of the most dangerous teams in the Pro division.
Teams on the Edge:
Otukset
Otukset is a team that has the potential to compete with the best, but they’ve been a bit inconsistent in past seasons. Their ability to stay competitive and earn points in high-stakes matchups will be crucial this season, as the competition in Group 1 is fierce. At their best, they can knock off top-tier teams, but they need to find a way to be more consistent if they want to push for a playoff spot.
One of Otukset’s key players, @juhkis96 , has long been known for his playmaking ability from the back end. As a puck-moving defenseman, he’s crucial in initiating breakouts and getting the offense going. If Otukset can find some chemistry and balance their game between offense and defense, they’ll be in the mix for a playoff spot. The challenge for them will be putting together a complete season and making sure they peak at the right time.
Blackbirds
Formerly known as xBots, the Blackbirds have shown flashes of brilliance in recent tournaments and impressed in the Pro qualifiers. Their individual skill is undeniable, and if they can continue to build on that momentum, they could be a surprise package in Group 1. Their defense has been a weak point in the past, but if they can tighten up at the back and get some reliable goaltending, they could certainly push for a playoff spot.
The Blackbirds' biggest hurdle will be consistency — they have the potential, but they need to put it all together over the course of a full season. With some of their players capable of making game-changing plays, this team has the ability to compete against the best. However, it will require a solid team effort and continued development to make a deep playoff run.
Serpentes
Serpentes enters the new season with an incredible amount of talent, a balanced two-way game, and a mix of experienced players with professional backgrounds. The team’s potential is limitless, but their success this season will largely depend on how well they can execute their game plan and how the players mesh together on the ice.
One player to keep an eye on is @RookieLIAMOVIC , who had an impressive Pro campaign last season, racking up 28 goals and 27 assists. If he can build on his already strong performance and improve his plus-minus rating (which stood at -19 last season), he could help push Serpentes into serious title contention. With his offensive skills, Rookieliamovic could very well be one of the league’s top point producers, and his ability to make plays will be crucial for Serpentes' success.
The team is strong on both sides of the puck, with a solid defensive core that complements their offensive firepower. The blend of talent, experience, and potential makes Serpentes a team to watch in the upcoming season. If they can tighten up their defensive play and work on their team dynamics, they could be one of the most dangerous teams in the league, capable of challenging for the top spot.
Dilac
Dilac is a team stacked with Pro and Elite experience, which could give them a significant edge when the season hits its most crucial stages. The team has the potential to surprise many, and with their mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, they could very well be pushing for a playoff berth and beyond come postseason time.
@punt1la98 has been a standout performer in the Pro division for several years, most notably during his time with Polski, where he led the offense with both skill and consistency. If the chemistry between him and his teammates is on point, Dilac could very well exceed expectations and make a deep run in the playoffs.
What makes Dilac so formidable is their ability to execute in high-pressure situations. Players with experience in Elite and Pro divisions know how to perform when it matters most, and this could be the x-factor that propels Dilac to unexpected heights. With their offensive talent and solid defensive structure, Dilac is a team that could surprise everyone and push for the title if they can maintain consistency throughout the season.
Nova, a long-time fixture in the ECL community from Russia, showed last season that they are still capable of competing at a high level, clinching a playoff spot and proving they have the grit and determination to fight for their place among the league’s elite. Their ability to fight through adversity and remain competitive is a testament to their resilience.
One of the most dangerous players heading into the new season is @Nester4343 a forward who has consistently been among the best in the Pro division. His ability to generate offense and produce points is something that opposing teams will have to plan for carefully. If Nester can maintain his form and stay healthy, he could be among the top point scorers once again, providing a major boost to Nova’s chances of reaching the playoffs.
While Nova’s roster may not have the same level of star power as some of the other top teams, their ability to play with heart and quickly transition the puck makes them a dangerous underdog. If they can continue to develop their team cohesion and maintain their physicality, Nova will once again be in the hunt for a playoff spot and could prove to be a tough opponent for any team they face.
No Man’s Land:
Oldtimers
Oldtimers are often underestimated due to their somewhat unconventional roster, but that’s where their strength lies. This team has a knack for finding success in matchups that other teams might consider easy wins. They play a solid, structured game that relies on strong defense and quick counter-attacks. While they may not have the star power of some other teams, they are incredibly efficient in their play.
With the meta shifting to more fast-paced and skilled gameplay this season, Oldtimers could find themselves pushing for a possible playoff spot. If they can exploit the weaknesses of teams who underestimate them and capitalize on their disciplined game plan, they’ll be a tough team to beat. They’ll need to make every game count and steal points when they can.
Vizio
Vizio is another team that has been playing together for a while, and their chemistry is one of their greatest assets. However, to make a deeper playoff run this season, they will need to improve on their defensive play. Last year, they made it to the playoffs, but their run was cut short due to inconsistencies at the back end.
If Vizio can shore up their defense and continue to play a cohesive game, they’ll be competitive. Their players understand each other’s tendencies and can make quick adjustments during games. Their biggest challenge will be improving defensively, as their offensive game is already solid. If they can balance their play and tighten up at the back, they could make a much deeper run than last season.
Owned Hexa
After a tough season last year, Owned Hexa will be looking to bounce back and improve their performance. The team has the potential to surprise, and while they may not have been among the top contenders last season, they managed to steal key points from deep playoff teams, which helped them retain their place in the Pro division.
This season, they’ll need to build on that momentum and show that they can compete at a higher level. While it’s easy to overlook them, Hexa is a team that can grind out wins and will be looking to challenge the bigger names in the league. With a mix of experienced players and younger talents, they could very well be poised to make a jump in the standings if they can iron out their inconsistencies.
The key for Owned Hexa will be getting their top players to step up and deliver when needed most. If they can improve their overall team play and make smarter decisions on both offense and defense, they could be in the hunt for a playoff spot. Expect them to be a team that doesn’t back down easily, capable of causing some upsets along the way.
Relegation Zone
Kymmeneltä Clubille
The newly restructured roster of Kymmeneltä Clubille (KC) presents a lot of unknowns, but that unpredictability can be both a blessing and a curse. Coming off a mixed performance in the Pro qualifiers, KC will need to find their rhythm quickly to avoid being overwhelmed by the competition in the Pro division.
Despite their struggles in the qualifiers, KC does have a strong backbone of Pro experience, and this could be crucial as they look to navigate through the tough regular season. @HopeaKypara99 will be the focal point of their offensive attack, bringing a wealth of experience to the team. Having played a significant number of games at a high level, he knows what it takes to perform under pressure and will be looking to guide KC to a playoff spot.
Additionally, the versatility of @LeiskaViis7 , who made the transition from defenseman to center, could be an interesting development for KC. Last season, Leiskaviis7 showed a knack for offensive contributions while playing as a defender in Lite, and if he can bring that same offensive touch to his new role at center, KC could become a much more dangerous team.
KC’s path to success will depend on their ability to adapt and build chemistry quickly. If they can get the most out of their core players and find a balance between offense and defense, they might just surprise some of the more established teams in the Pro division. However, they’ll need to make sure they stay competitive and focus on steady improvement throughout the season to make a push for the playoffs.
Devilz
The Devilz are hoping to avoid another relegation scare this season, as last year’s Pro campaign ended in disappointment. While they’ll need to prove they belong in the Pro division, they’re determined to turn things around. This team will need to fight for every point, as they’ll be in constant danger of being relegated back to Lite if they don’t perform.
One of their biggest struggles last season was consistency — they found themselves losing key 50/50 games that could have been the difference between staying in Pro and being sent down. If they can turn those close games into wins and put together a more solid effort across the board, they’ll stand a chance at surviving the relegation zone. It will be a long, hard season for Devilz, but they have the potential to stay in Pro if they can deliver when it matters most.
After making an unexpected run in Lite last season, Mights earned their spot in Pro through the qualifiers. But now the real challenge begins: staying there. The competition in Pro is fierce, and Mights will need to find a way to adapt quickly. They’ll need to score some upsets and take points from teams that might underestimate them.
A key factor will be @priima-namu their standout goalie, who will need to step up and steal games for his team. He has the ability to make game-changing saves, but Mights will need more than just goaltending to succeed in Pro. If they can find consistency in their defensive play and generate more offense, they could surprise some teams and avoid the relegation zone. But it’s going to be a tough battle.
Group 2 Overview
The competition in Group 2 of the Pro division looks intense, with several teams vying for playoff spots, title contention, and survival in the league. With some teams making the leap from Lite and others looking to bounce back from disappointing seasons, this is sure to be a season full of surprises, tough battles, and shifting dynamics. Here’s a closer look at the teams in each category.
Title Contenders
Ryhtic
Ryhtic is a team with a rich history of being on the cusp of greatness. For several seasons, they've been flirting with Elite qualifications, but have never quite broken through. This season, however, could very well be their year. Ryhtic has consistently been one of the top Pro teams, and with a solid roster returning alongside a few key additions, they have the depth and experience to push for the top.
At the center of their offense will once again be @yrjoo a player who has been a mainstay of the team and has consistently delivered. His ability to create scoring chances and control the tempo of the game is invaluable. Alongside him, @Limbe65 and @Naikou88 will continue to flank him on the wings, creating a well-balanced offensive line that has the potential to dominate. Together, they formed one of the most dangerous lines last season, and if they can recapture that form, Ryhtic will be near impossible to stop.
The team’s most recent near-miss, losing in Game 7 to TikiTalk in the playoffs, should have given them valuable lessons in handling high-pressure situations. If they learned from this experience and fine-tuned their game, they could very well take that final step and secure an Elite spot this season. The consistency of their top line, combined with solid defensive play and reliable goaltending, makes Ryhtic a serious title contender.
Poggers
Poggers is a team that has been a fixture in the Pro division for years, and while they have the talent to make waves in the Elite, inconsistency has been their biggest obstacle. Last season, Poggers had another strong regular-season campaign but fell short in the playoffs. The team’s performance has been a bit up and down in recent years, but there is no denying that they have the raw talent to compete with the best.
The veteran presence of @JaKurrii , returning for another season, will be crucial. An all-around player who contributes to both offense and defense, Jakurrii is the backbone of the team. His leadership and ability to make plays in critical moments will be key for Poggers as they look to challenge for the Pro title. His consistency at the top of the scoring charts is expected to continue, and his chemistry with his linemates will be pivotal for the team’s success.
If Poggers can find more consistency in their game, particularly in the postseason, they will be a formidable force. Their ability to compete with the league's best and their deep roster make them one of the favorites to win the title. A strong start to the season and a solid playoff push will be what defines this team's success.
Deep Playoff Teams
Finnish Roosters
The Finnish Roosters had a strong regular season last year, finishing as the number 2 seed, but their playoff run was a major disappointment as they fell to Golden Sticks. The team crumbled in the postseason, and their inability to step up when it mattered most left fans wondering what went wrong. This season, they will be looking to bounce back and prove that they can replicate their regular-season success in the playoffs.
The Roosters are one of the most well-rounded teams in the league, with a deep roster that boasts excellent two-way players like @J0HTAJA and @Ernottii . These players bring both offensive creativity and defensive reliability, making it difficult for opponents to break through. If the Roosters can find a way to carry their strong regular-season form into the postseason, they will be a tough team to eliminate.
With a mix of experience and talent across the board, the Finnish Roosters are capable of making a deep playoff run. However, they will need to address their postseason struggles and prove that they can deliver when the pressure is on.
Herlev Eagles
The Herlev Eagles have been a fixture in the Pro division for several seasons, but their performance has been inconsistent. At their best, they can compete with the best teams in the league, but they’ve struggled to find that level of play consistently. This season, they are aiming to return to their former glory, and their experienced core should help them get back on track.
With players like @vibholm10 , a seasoned pro who knows how to step up in critical moments, the Eagles have a leader who can guide the team through tough stretches. Vibholm’s ability to control the pace of play and contribute offensively will be crucial for Herlev as they look to challenge for a playoff spot. The team’s success will depend on finding that level of consistency and playing a more structured game throughout the season.
If the Eagles can eliminate the rollercoaster performances and start to play more consistently, they could once again become a playoff team. However, they will need to put together a complete season, both offensively and defensively, if they want to make a deep run in the postseason.
Dark Horses
Cheeky Grinders
The Cheeky Grinders have steadily improved over the past few seasons and are now looking to make a real push for a playoff spot. The team has been steadily grinding away, and their hard work is starting to pay off as they continue to develop into a competitive force in the Pro division.
As captain, @tigerrbackwoods will continue to lead from the back end, where his defensive acumen and leadership have been invaluable. If he can keep his game at a high level, the Cheeky Grinders will be tough to break down. Additionally, the team will need strong contributions from all of its players to push for a playoff spot. Their depth and team-first mentality make them dangerous, and if they continue to improve, they could be a surprise team in the playoffs.
If the Grinders can keep their defensive play tight and get consistent offensive output, they could push for a spot in the postseason. They will be a team to watch closely throughout the season.
Ismon Valinta
Ismon Valinta might have finally found that missing piece to make a run at the playoffs. With the addition of @Ikavalko , a player known for his ability to create plays and find teammates in critical situations, the team now has an added dimension to their offense. Valko’s vision and playmaking ability should help elevate the team’s offensive production and help them challenge for a playoff spot.
That being said, @Hapee-_- , the team’s right winger, needs to step up his game. While he has shown flashes of being a top Pro player, he must become more consistent if Ismon Valinta wants to succeed at the highest level. If these two players can find chemistry and build momentum, Ismon Valinta could surprise a few teams and be a contender for a playoff berth.
Golden Sticks
Golden Sticks made waves last season, advancing to the second round of the playoffs despite a roster that many considered not to be among the elite. This year, the team faces the challenge of replacing their star point producer, who has left for Gotham Knights, a top contender. Filling the void left by this departure will be no easy task, but Golden Sticks has shown resilience in the past.
The question for them this season is whether they can replicate their previous success without their top scorer. They have a solid roster, but replacing the goals and assists from last year’s standout player is a tall order. If they can find a way to distribute the scoring load and get production from across their lineup, Golden Sticks could still make a strong playoff push. However, they’ll need to adapt quickly and find new ways to generate offense.
Teams on the Edge
Björklöven eSport
A new roster always comes with a set of uncertainties, and Björklöven eSport is no exception. The team will have to find its rhythm quickly if they want to make a serious push for the playoffs. @Kallmanius is back and will provide stability and leadership, but the question remains whether he can perform at a high level consistently and how the rest of the roster will gel.
With some new Swedish talent in the mix, Björklöven has the potential to recapture the success they’ve had in the past. However, they will need to overcome the growing pains that often come with roster changes. If they can find chemistry and develop a consistent game plan, they could be a surprise team in the Pro division.
HC Lugano eSport
HC Lugano eSport is a team that surprised many during the Pro qualifiers, and their strong puck movement and overall team play suggest they could be a tough opponent in the regular season. With a few standout players who can make a difference, they are looking to make some noise in the Pro division and stay competitive.
If Lugano can build on their momentum from the qualifiers and continue to play an aggressive, up-tempo style, they could pose problems for higher-ranked teams. But they will need to gather points early in the regular season to avoid getting caught in a relegation battle. This team has potential, but they need to prove themselves consistently.
Aspyre
Coming up from Lite, Aspyre has made a splash in the Pro qualifiers, but now they face the challenge of proving themselves in the regular season.
The key player to watch is @JepuXI , the center who had a solid season in Lite last year. Now, as the focal point of the offense in Pro, the pressure will be on him to step up. His ability to maintain composure and perform at a high level will be crucial in determining how well Aspyre fares this season. They’ll be looking to get some key points early and prove they belong at this level.
No Man’s Land
Nostreetsports
Nostreetsports is a team that has the potential to fight for a playoff spot, but it will be a long road for them. Despite being together for a while, the team has not been able to fully translate their chemistry into consistent results. This season, they will need their star player @Bot_hene to step up and lead the charge.
Bot_hene has shown flashes of brilliance, and if he can develop better chemistry with his wingers and drive the offense, Nostreetsports may surprise a few teams. However, consistency will be key, and the team will need to find ways to win tough matchups if they want to make a push for the postseason.
AFTERLIFE is a team that has struggled to find consistency at the Pro level, and with a lack of experience in the division, they are likely to face significant challenges this season. Goalie @Bystrom_33 has shown that he can play at a high level, but the team around him will need to step up to ensure they don’t get overwhelmed.
If AFTERLIFE can rally together and start playing with more confidence, they could pull off some upsets and prove that they belong in the Pro division. However, it will take a complete team effort and a lot of hard work to make it through the regular season.
Relegation Zone
Refuse Too Lose
After surviving the tough Pro qualifiers, Refuse Too Lose now faces the daunting task of competing at the Pro level. Their lack of experience will be a major hurdle, but they do have some crafty players who can surprise teams with their counter-attacks. The team's success will largely depend on the leadership of @sonny , who will need to guide his squad through tough matchups.
If they can play a patient, defensive game and capitalize on counter-attacks, Refuse Too Lose could steal some points. But their inexperience will likely be exposed over the course of the season, and staying in the Pro division will be a tough ask.
Nürnberg IceTigers eSport
The Nürnberg IceTigers are a team in flux, having struggled to maintain a consistent presence in the Pro division. Their defense is anchored by @OGjahajaha , a veteran who brings stability and leadership to the blueline, but the team will need to generate more offense if they want to stay out of the relegation zone.
With their focus on defensive play, the IceTigers will likely rely on low-scoring games to stay competitive. However, their offensive output needs to improve if they are to climb up the standings and avoid relegation.
Red Bull Munich eSport
Red Bull Munich eSport has had their ups and downs in recent seasons, and this year will be no different. With some big names on the roster, they have the potential to be competitive, but they will need to find a way to gel as a team and play consistently throughout the season.
If Red Bull Munich can play to their potential and find a rhythm, they may be able to stay in the Pro division. However, they will need to prove they can handle the pressure and consistently perform at a high level.
Sawolanche
Sawolanche is a team that surprised many by finishing in the top four in Lite and earning promotion to the Pro division. Now, they must adjust to the higher level of competition and start collecting points quickly. The team has some talented players, including @I_LaiTi_I , who can be a difference-maker if he steps up to the challenge.
If Sawolanche can maintain their strong defensive play from Lite and get contributions from their offense, they might be able to sneak into the playoffs. However, they will need to adapt quickly to the Pro division and build chemistry as a team if they want to survive and thrive at this level.
We want your clips!
Did you make an incredible play or have a funny blooper? Share your best moments on social media using the hashtag #ECL25Clips and get a chance to be featured in our broadcasts.
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Please tag @SportsGamerGG and use the hashtag #ECL25Winter when posting on social media. You can also use the hashtags #KouvolanLakritsi #eHockey.
Also note that when editing your team info, you can add your social media accounts to your team information. The same goes for your player card.
Season schedule
Regular Season duration:
18.11-19.12.2024
Estimated finals date:
Below is the estimated date for the Finals (BO7) to be approximately played. We reserve the right to changes in schedule.
- ECL Pro Finals 29.-30.1.2025
Good luck to all the teams as they hit the virtual ice. Have fun and let the games begin!
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