Hi and welcome to the annual mid-season report of the second-highest division of the ECL – the premier virtual eHockey league in Europe. We’ve officially hit the halfway point of the season, and as we look back at the action so far, there’s plenty to talk about. From standout teams to players making a name for themselves, and others who still have a lot of work ahead of them, this report will provide an in-depth look at how things are shaping up in the league.

If you haven’t already, check out the Sportsgamer Wraparound here👇🏻where @Tougie24 takes a look at all the divisions in a well-rounder Youtube video!

SportsGamer Wraparound | Ep4 | ECL '25: Winter - Week 3

Before we jump in, here are a few points to be aware of:

• This article was written based on the standings as of 01:00 EEST 7th of December 2024.
• When referring to standings we have referred to the PPG (point-per-game).
• We remind everyone that some of these comments are opinions, and not to take them too seriously. 
• As these articles are written in a short time frame, we try to include as many teams as possible, so those teams that were mentioned in the “Week 1 & 2 recap” article will not be getting a deep dive in this article.
   

 ECL Pro - Group 1

As the final weeks of the group stage approach, Group 1 is starting to heat up, and the intensity is rising. With just a handful of games remaining, teams are beginning to show clear patterns, and the standings are starting to take shape. The picture is becoming clearer, and it's now evident who’s in the mix and who’s struggling to keep pace.

For many teams, the next few weeks will be make-or-break, as they look to solidify their positions and make a strong push for the playoffs. Every point counts, and with so much at stake, the competition is expected to be fierce. Teams that have been hovering around the middle of the standings will be jockeying for position, while those at the top will be battling to maintain their lead and secure a favorable spot heading into the postseason.

As we close in on the end of the group stage, it's clear that the race is on. Teams are hitting their stride, while others are feeling the pressure of the approaching finish line. This is the time when players need to step up and teams must dig deep if they want to secure a spot in the playoffs. The final stretch is always the most exciting, with playoff hopes on the line and every game feeling like it could be the difference between success and disappointment.

🔥 HOT 🔥

 Gotham Knights 🔥

Gotham is a team that is heating up at exactly the right time, and their recent form has made them a team to watch as the season heads into its critical stages. With a remarkable six-game win streak, Gotham has surged to the top of their group, overtaking Zenegeim and now sitting at the top with an impressive 2.29 points per game (PPG). Their momentum is undeniable, and if they can continue their dominant run, they will be a formidable force come playoff time.

One of the key factors in Gotham's incredible run has been the standout play of their star goalie, @Kussan82. In the midst of this six-game win streak, Kussan has been absolutely stellar between the pipes. With a sparkling goals-against average (GAA) of just 1.33, Kussan has been nearly unbeatable, giving Gotham the kind of defensive stability that is crucial for a deep playoff push. Whether it’s stopping high-danger chances of making crucial saves in the final moments of games, Kussan has shown time and time again that he belongs among the league’s elite goalies.

Important games coming up:

• Vs The Oldtimers
• Vs Otukset

Player to watch: @Rimpe

The Oldtimers 🔥

With a few more games played than some of their competitors, The Oldtimers have managed to take a solid step towards securing a playoff spot, and that’s what matters most as the regular season begins to wind down. They’ve been consistently effective in all areas of the game, and their position is a reflection of their hard work and strategic focus.

One of the key components of The Oldtimers' success has been their emphasis on defense. As any experienced player will tell you, getting into the playoffs and making a deep run starts with a strong defensive foundation. Keeping the puck out of their own net has clearly been a priority for The Oldtimers, and it’s paying off. Currently, they sit second in the league in goals against per game (GA/GP) with an impressive 1.95. Their ability to play tight in their own zone and limit opposing teams’ scoring opportunities has been a hallmark of their style. By focusing on sound positioning and smart puck management, The Oldtimers have become a difficult team to break down, making life easier for their goaltender and preventing high-quality chances from getting through.

Speaking of their goaltender, @TiSuLiNo has been a key factor in their defensive success. With solid performances game in and game out, TiSuLiNo has become a cornerstone of The Oldtimers' push for the postseason. Not only does TiSuLiNo sit near the top of the league in shutouts, with 4 on the season, but the consistency of their play has given The Oldtimers the confidence to focus on their game plan without worrying about giving up soft goals. TiSuLiNo’s ability to step up and make critical saves has been instrumental in keeping the team in games, especially during tight matchups where every goal counts.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Gotham Knights
• Vs Zenegeim

Player to watch: @japi_kuittaa

Devilz  🔥

A team that was widely predicted to struggle this season has proven exactly what predictions are—just that: predictions. Against all expectations, they have made a strong case for themselves, sitting in 8th place with a solid 1.63 points per game (PPG). With three wins in their last four games, they’ve shown a positive trend that is unfolding at precisely the right time, and they’re not done yet.

Much of the team’s recent success can be attributed to the stellar performances of @Bugimir and @xcurhed, who have taken the offensive reins and put up impressive numbers. Together, they have combined for 62 points, demonstrating that they are more than capable of carrying the offensive load. Their chemistry and ability to produce when needed have been pivotal in the team's resurgence, and they’ve proven that, given the opportunity, they can lead the charge and put points on the board. The team has now become a force to reckon with, as these two offensive powerhouses continue to play at a high level, igniting their team’s chances of making a deep run.

While the offensive players are stepping up, there is still work to be done if the team wants to continue their upward trajectory and secure a playoff spot. One area that needs immediate attention is discipline. The team has found themselves in the penalty box too often, which has put unnecessary pressure on their penalty kill unit. Their current penalty kill (PK) efficiency of 85.71% is respectable but not invincible. If the team continues to take penalties at this rate, it’s only a matter of time before they face a team that can exploit this weakness. The players know that if they want to keep the positive momentum going, they must find a way to limit the penalties and give their penalty killers a break.

Important games coming up:

• Vs The Oldtimers
• Vs BlackBirds

Player to watch: @LTorro

 Dilac 🔥

After starting the season with three straight losses, this team has shown incredible resilience, winning six of their last seven games. They've managed to tilt five of those games in their favor, all of which were one-goal decisions, proving that they can battle through tight situations and close out crucial moments when it matters most. This resilience, combined with their growing confidence, has them on a positive trend as the season progresses.

A key factor in their turnaround has been the addition of @punt1la98, who joined the team just weeks before the season began. The experienced left winger has made an immediate impact, contributing 31 points (18 goals, 13 assists). His goal-scoring touch is clearly still intact, and his ability to find the back of the net has given the team a significant boost offensively. His leadership and experience have helped stabilize the lineup, providing both scoring and a calming presence in tight games. With punt1la98 leading the charge, this team looks poised to continue their upward climb, showing that early setbacks don’t define their season.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Gotham Knights
• Vs SSK esports

Player to watch: @kim_johan

❄️ COLD ❄️

 Nordic Stars ❄️

The Nordic Stars have been one of the more surprising teams this season. After showing flashes of their former glory, their recent form has been concerning. With eight losses in their past 11 games, they find themselves on a slippery slope that could very well lead them into the relegation zone if they don’t turn things around soon.

One of the biggest issues for the Nordic Stars seems to be their lack of consistency, both in their performance on the ice and in the roster. Throughout the season, their lineup has undergone multiple changes, and it appears that the team has yet to find the chemistry needed to compete at a high level consistently. With key players coming in and out of the lineup, it’s been difficult for the team to build any momentum or settle into a rhythm that would help them climb up the standings.

A prime example of this inconsistency is @jezbaru, who has played just 10 games out of a possible 18. Despite his limited appearances, the skilled forward has been one of the team’s brightest spots, recording 24 points (13 goals, 11 assists) in those games. His offensive production has been strong, but the fact that he hasn’t been available for more games has put additional pressure on the rest of the squad. For the Nordic Stars to get back on track and remain in playoff contention, jezbaru’s availability and contribution will be crucial. If the team can get him back into the lineup more regularly and build some stability around him, they might have a shot at turning their season around.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Otukset
• Vs Dilac

Player to watch: @Macentoitunu

SSK eSports  ❄️

Another experienced team struggling to find their form this season, raising the question: is this becoming a trend? Are seasoned teams beginning to show signs of age, or is it just a matter of tough luck and inconsistency? While the jury is still out, one thing is certain, this team is not out of the race just yet.

Despite their challenges, they’ve proven they can still compete at a high level, especially in key areas like defense and special teams. Their strong defensive structure has allowed them to stay in games, and their special teams have kept them competitive in tight matchups. With a solid foundation in these areas, they are only a few wins away from finding themselves on the right side of the playoff line.

One of the positives for this team has been their ability to compete against some of the higher-ranked teams in the standings. While their overall record may not reflect it, they’ve shown they can go toe-to-toe with the league’s best, which bodes well for their playoff push. How they perform in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether they can make up ground and position themselves for a postseason berth.

In terms of goaltending, this team has leaned on a two-man rotation, with @Brokenrice2000 and @Jonte05_ splitting the season thus far. Both have had their moments, but the question remains: which one will step up and take the reins as the team’s possible playoff goalie? Both have shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency will be key as they enter the most important part of the season. The players will have to make a decision soon on who they trust to lead the team through the stretch run.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Nova
• Vs Otukset

Player to watch: @zuppe_29

 Serpentes  ❄️

Serpentes currently sit dead last in the standings, and with the playoff line seeming so far out of reach, one has to wonder if they’re heading for a season of irrelevance.. The gap between them and the teams above the playoff line is substantial, and the road to recovery is looking increasingly difficult.

At this point, their primary focus should be simple: getting back on track and scraping together some much-needed wins. With each game that passes, their margin for error shrinks, and they can’t afford to keep digging themselves deeper into a hole. The good news, however, is that hockey is a game of momentum, and a few strong performances could help them turn things around. But they need to act quickly.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Kymmenelta Clubille
• Vs Deadly Phantoms

Player to watch: @RookieLIAMOVIC

 ECL Pro - Group 2

As the group stage nears its conclusion, the competition in Group 2 is reaching a boiling point. With only a few games left, the dynamics are becoming increasingly clear, as teams reveal their true form and the standings solidify. It’s now apparent which teams are in contention and which are struggling to stay afloat.

The coming weeks will be crucial for many teams as they fight to cement their positions and make a decisive push toward the playoffs. Every match carries significant weight, and with so much on the line, the intensity is expected to reach new heights. Teams lingering in the mid-table will be scrambling to climb higher, while those at the top aim to protect their lead and secure an advantageous position for the postseason.

As the group stage winds down, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Some teams are hitting their peak performance, while others feel the mounting pressure as the finish line approaches. This is the moment when players must rise to the occasion, and teams need to deliver their best if they hope to stay in the hunt for the playoffs. The final stretch promises thrilling action, with playoff dreams hanging in the balance and every game potentially deciding the difference between triumph and heartbreak.

🔥 HOT 🔥

 Sawolanche 🔥

With no expectations weighing them down, some teams seem to thrive, and Sawolanche is proving to be one of those teams. Entering their first season in the Pro division with minimal fanfare and little belief from analysts or players that they could contend for the playoffs, Sawolanche appears to have embraced their underdog status. This chip-on-the-shoulder mentality might just be the fuel they needed to excel. Now sitting in 7th place with an impressive 1.65 points per game (PPG), they are in prime position to secure a playoff berth, a feat that seemed improbable just weeks ago.

A major reason for their success has been the stellar play of their young winger, @I_LaiTi_I, who has emerged as one of the team's most valuable assets. Over the course of 20 games, he has racked up an incredible 42 points, with 20 goals and 22 assists to his name. These numbers are a testament to his skill, vision, and consistency on the ice. His ability to generate offense has not only lifted his team’s fortunes but also put him on the radar as one of the breakout stars of the season.

However, while his numbers are remarkable, the challenge now is maintaining this momentum as the playoffs loom. The postseason is an entirely different beast, and opponents will no doubt be strategizing to shut down Sawolanche’s most potent weapon. For I_Laiti_I, this means proving he can perform under heightened pressure and continue to deliver when it matters most. His ability to rise to the occasion will be pivotal not just for his individual reputation but also for his team’s chances of making a deep playoff run.

Important games coming up:

• Vs HC Lugano
• Vs Golden Sticks

Player to watch: @Mrantonn

 Herlev Eagles 🔥

The Herlev Eagles didn’t get off to the strongest start this season, but they’ve managed to turn things around in spectacular fashion. With an incredible 9 wins in their last 10 games, they’re proving they have what it takes to compete with the best. Momentum is firmly on their side, and the team shows no signs of slowing down as they aim to solidify their position in the standings.

At the heart of this resurgence is none other than @Dreamickie, who has been the backbone of the Eagles' offense. Leading the team with 28 points and topping the goal charts with 12, he’s been a relentless force on the ice. His leadership and consistency in generating scoring opportunities have been instrumental in the Eagles’ mid-season revival. However, the true standout aspect of this team has been their defense, which has been nothing short of phenomenal. The Eagles now boast the league’s best goals-against average per game (GA/GP) at a stingy 1.79. This defensive discipline has been a game-changer, providing the solid foundation needed to turn narrow contests into victories.

While their defense has been rock solid, the team knows they’ll need more offensive firepower to make a serious playoff run—and they may have found the perfect solution. Recently, the Herlev Eagles made a key signing in @MartindalexC, and he’s wasted no time making an impact. In just four games, he’s already racked up an eye-popping 13 points (6 goals, 7 assists), showcasing his elite skill and wealth of experience from previous seasons in other divisions. His seamless transition into the lineup has brought a new dimension to the Eagles’ attack, making them even more dangerous as the season progresses.

With this newfound balance between an airtight defense and a bolstered offense, the Herlev Eagles are shaping up to be a team that no one wants to face in the postseason. If they can continue this level of play and integrate MartindalexC fully into their system, their ceiling is sky-high. For a team that has been trying to break through for quite some time, this might finally be their moment to go all the way.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Nostreetsports
• Vs Poggers

Player to watch: @MartindalexC

 Ismon Valinta 🔥

Currently holding 5th place in the standings, Ismon Valinta has outperformed expectations so far this season. However, with the race for the playoffs tightening and numerous teams nipping at their heels, they can’t afford to let up now. Consistency and momentum will be crucial in the coming weeks as they aim to secure one of the coveted postseason spots.

One of the most interesting aspects of Ismon Valinta’s season has been their roster flexibility. With 9 skaters on the roster, the team has had the opportunity to experiment with different lineups, searching for the perfect combination to maximize their potential. While this approach has brought some ups and downs, it seems they may finally be closing in on the ideal setup.

One player who has been a constant and reliable presence throughout the season is @Jusu121. With 11 goals and 20 assists to his name, he has been the team’s offensive cornerstone, consistently creating scoring opportunities and driving play. If Ismon Valinta can find him a partner who can match his production, they could significantly increase their chances of locking in a playoff spot. Building chemistry and establishing a dynamic duo in the lineup could be the game-changer they need as the competition intensifies.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Björklöven
• Vs Ryhtic

Player to watch: @lycki10

❄️ COLD ❄️

 Golden Sticks  ❄️

After a strong playoff showing last year, it’s been a tough road for the Russian side this season. While their performance has taken a noticeable dip, their respectable points-per-game (PPG) average of 1.45 keeps them in the conversation. They’re not out of the race yet, but time is running out to turn things around. The key will be winning those pivotal matchups against teams sitting just above them in the standings, games that could make or break their season.

Offensively, the team has struggled, ranking near the bottom of the table in scoring. This lack of firepower has made it difficult for any single player to stand out, leaving a noticeable void on the stat sheet. However, the defense has managed to keep them in games, providing a silver lining in an otherwise challenging campaign. A significant bright spot has been the play of their goaltender, @iStrong_rus, who has been a steady presence in net. With a goals-against average (GAA) of 1.91, he’s given the team a chance to compete even in low-scoring affairs.

For the Russian side, the formula for success is clear: the offense needs to step up. If they can find a spark to complement their solid defensive foundation, they might just claw their way back into playoff contention. The pressure is on for the team to rediscover their form and rise to the occasion in this critical stretch.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Sawolanche
• Vs Ismon Valinta

Player to watch: @peppenntur

 Cheeky Grinders ❄️

The Cheeky Grinders have had a season to forget so far, a stark contrast to their solid performance in last year’s ECL campaign. Their slow start has left them struggling to find their footing, and while they’re not at the bottom of the standings, they’re a long way from playoff contention. With a points-per-game (PPG) average of just 0.9, there’s little for the team to celebrate at the moment. The light at the end of the tunnel feels dim, and time is running out to turn things around.

The team’s lackluster performance has made it difficult for any individual player to stand out, with underwhelming statistics across the board. However, one player who has been trying to spark some life into the lineup is @Yaredhagos, who has been making his presence felt in the physical game. With an impressive 60 hits so far this season, he’s leading by example, bringing energy and grit in an effort to wake up his team. While hits don’t translate directly to goals, his determination and physicality are a testament to his commitment to fighting for his team’s resurgence.

For the Cheeky Grinders, the path forward is steep, but not impossible. They need to dig deep, find their cohesion, and start delivering on both ends of the ice. If they can channel the passion and effort shown by players like Yaredhagos into a collective team effort, they might just rediscover the spark that made them a competitive force in the past.

The season may feel like it’s slipping away, but with the right mindset and a willingness to fight for every point, the Cheeky Grinders can still salvage their campaign. It’s an uphill battle, but as they’ve proven in previous seasons, they have the resilience to overcome adversity, it’s just a question of whether they can summon it in time.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Refuse Too Lose
• Vs Golden Sticks

Player to watch: @Leppadinho

 Finnish Roosters  ❄️

The Roosters, a team that stood out last season with their cohesive play and strong special teams, now find themselves in an uneasy position. Sitting in 10th place, they’re on the wrong side of the playoff line, not entirely out of the race, but not where they need to be either. While their current standing is neither disastrous nor encouraging, it’s clear that they’ll need to elevate their game if they want to make a late-season push for the playoffs.

One undeniable bright spot for the Roosters this season has been their standout goaltender, @xKeskitalo. His performance has been nothing short of stellar, leading the league in several key categories. With 4 shutouts, a jaw-dropping 87.07 save percentage (SV%), and a league-best goals-against average (GAA) of 1.5, he’s been a rock between the pipes. These numbers aren’t just impressive, they’re elite, highlighting his ability to keep the Roosters competitive even in tough games.

However, as strong as their goaltending has been, the Roosters’ offense has yet to step up and provide the support their star netminder deserves. To climb the standings and make a real playoff push, they’ll need more consistency and firepower from their forwards. Unlocking their scoring potential will be the key to complementing xKeskitalo's heroic efforts and putting the team in a position to win more close games.

Important games coming up:

• Vs Ismon Valinta
• Vs Poggers

Player to watch: @Ernottii

Intensity Rising in ECL '25: Winter Core

The group stage of ECL '25 Winter Core have reached the decisive last part of the group stage, and the tension is palpable. With each game, the stakes grow higher as teams fight tooth and nail for playoff spots, and the competition has delivered everything fans could hope for—dominant leaders, surprising underdogs, and gripping battles across all four groups. As favorites solidify their positions and struggling teams cling to their playoff dreams, the stage is set for an electrifying second half of the season. Who will rise, who will falter, and which players will etch their names into Core history? The answers lie in the thrilling games still to come.

This report is based on the standings and stats as of December 7th.
 

Group 1: 
As we move deeper into the ECL '25 Winter Core season, Group 1's playoff picture is starting to take shape. With only the top eight teams advancing to the postseason, the competition is heating up, and every game matters. The standings currently highlight clear frontrunners, competitive mid-table teams, and struggling sides that may soon see their playoff hopes fade. Let’s break down who is likely to make the cut and who risks missing out.

Playoff Locks

Dynamo HC has firmly established themselves as the top seed in Group 1. With an impressive record of 13-1-1-1 and a ten-game winning streak, their dominance has been unmatched. Their offense, led by Harten7 (52 points), and defense, anchored by goalie Calxm86 (88.14% save rate), make them the favorites not only to secure a playoff spot but also to contend for the championship.

Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki sits comfortably in second place with 38 points. Their balance on both ends of the ice, driven by star forwards kalsarikalle123 and TheKapoZ, ensures they will be a strong playoff contender. Their consistency and depth set them apart from mid-tier teams.

Prowlers, in third place with 33 points, are another lock for the playoffs. Their explosive offense, highlighted by Rhannu’s 58 points, has been their strength. Despite occasional defensive lapses, their ability to outscore opponents keeps them safely in playoff contention.

CapeTown Kings, with a 7-1-1-3 record and 24 points, remain in a strong position despite having played fewer games. Their offensive efficiency (4.17 goals per game) and solid power play make them a dangerous team heading into the postseason.

Koppibuutti, with 24 points, is on the bubble. Their defensive struggles (2.29 GA/GP) have made some games closer than they should be. If they can tighten their backline and capitalize on their scoring opportunities, they should secure a playoff spot.

Taskubilis, currently in fourth with 27 points, has been a team of streaks. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, consistency remains a challenge. Their playoff hopes are solid but will depend on maintaining form against tougher opponents in the second half.

The Ghillie Gang, sitting in fifth with 27 points as well, have relied on gritty performances to stay in contention. Their disciplined defensive approach, combined with key offensive contributions, makes them a likely playoff team, though they lack the firepower of the top contenders.

RAIDERS HC, with 16 points, occupies the eighth and final playoff spot but faces intense pressure from below. Their inconsistent play and defensive vulnerabilities (3.38 GA/GP) make their position precarious. They’ll need to find a spark in the second half to hold off challengers.
 

Likely to Miss the Playoffs

Pillipiiparit sits ninth with 11 points and has struggled to keep pace with the playoff-bound teams. Their offense has been adequate, but their defense (4.33 GA/GP) has let them down repeatedly. While mathematically still in the race, their path to the playoffs would require a dramatic turnaround.

SCRUBS, in tenth place with just three points, has been overmatched in almost every game. Their inability to generate offense (1.8 GF/GP) and a leaky defense (4.9 GA/GP) all but guarantee they will miss the postseason.

ERC Ingolstadt, at the bottom of the group with a single point, has endured a nightmare season. With zero wins and the league’s worst defensive record (5.44 GA/GP), their playoff hopes have long since vanished.

Summary: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
At the midway point, it seems likely that Dynamo HC, Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki, Prowlers, CapeTown Kings, Taskubilis, The Ghillie Gang, and Koppibuutti will secure playoff spots. RAIDERS HC currently holds the eighth position but will need to fight hard to keep it as teams like Pillipiiparit attempt to close the gap. Meanwhile, SCRUBS and ERC Ingolstadt appear destined to miss out, having fallen too far behind the pack. The second half of the group stage will determine whether the current standings hold or if late-season drama shakes up the playoff picture.

Group 2: 
Group 2 has proven to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable in the ECL '25 Winter Core season. With only the top eight teams advancing to the playoffs, the fight for positions has been fierce. Strong performances from the top teams have set the pace, while those at the bottom scramble to salvage their seasons. Let’s analyze the playoff landscape and predict which teams will make it and which will fall short.

Playoff Locks

Maitojuna has defied expectations this season, sitting in fourth place with 35 points. Their efficient style of play and deadly power play (34.62% success rate) have turned them into a serious playoff contender. With their strong form, they are likely to remain among the top eight teams

NAM3LESS, in second place with 38 points, has been equally impressive. Their star forward jimmiNOhands (50 points) has been the engine of their offense, while goalie saberLionZero has been a reliable presence in net, maintaining an 83.87% save percentage. Their consistency makes them a safe bet for a playoff berth.

KOST Wolves have emerged as the top team in Group 2, boasting a record of 11-3-0-6 and 39 points. Their offensive firepower, driven by freez_skillers77 (59 points) and MaroulCZE (58 points), has made them a constant threat to opponents. Combined with a disciplined defense, the Wolves are all but guaranteed a playoff spot and are one of the strongest teams in the group.

Armeijan Kuri, despite their fifth-place position with 31 points, have shown enough quality to secure their playoff spot. Their defensive discipline and standout players, like MutainenMalik, have kept them competitive against even the strongest teams in the group.

Nordic Nosebleed, with 37 points, has been steady and consistent. Their offense has produced regularly, but occasional defensive lapses have cost them. They remain well-positioned for the playoffs, but they will need to maintain focus in the second half of the season to secure their spot.

Salaseura, in sixth place with 23 points, is in a precarious position. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, their lack of offensive firepower (2.44 GF/GP) has held them back. Their fate depends on whether they can convert more chances in the games ahead.

Reckless Panthers, clinging to the eighth spot with 18 points, are a team in danger. Their defensive struggles (3.57 GA/GP) have made games closer than they should be, and inconsistent performances have left them vulnerable to teams chasing from below. If they cannot find form in the remaining games, they risk falling out of the playoff race.

Nürnberg Nidhoggr, sitting seventh with 19 points, have relied heavily on their defensive approach. While this has kept them competitive, their lack of scoring depth (37 GF) leaves them vulnerable to being overtaken by hungrier teams in the standings. Their playoff hopes hinge on maintaining their defensive solidity.

Likely to Miss the Playoffs

Jurvan Liekki, at the bottom with nine points but has only 8 games played so far , have been unable to make an impact in the group. Their offense has been nonexistent at times, with only 14 goals scored across their eight games. Their playoff hopes have all but evaporated.

HC Lisko, currently in ninth place with 16 points, has struggled to stay competitive in a tough group. While their scoring has been decent, their defense (3.39 GA/GP) has been a significant weakness, and their remaining schedule doesn’t favor a playoff push.

HC Ohiveto, with just 12 points, has had a season marred by defensive breakdowns and inconsistency. Allowing an average of five goals per game, they have been unable to stay competitive in key matchups, leaving their playoff chances slim to none.

Wildcats Esport, sitting at 11 points, have been one of the group’s most underwhelming teams. With just one win in 16 games and a lack of scoring depth (42 GF), they are effectively out of the playoff race barring a miraculous turnaround.

Summary: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
At this point in the group stage, KOST Wolves, NAM3LESS, Maitojuna, and Armeijan Kuri appear to be locks for the playoffs. Nordic Nosebleed is also likely to qualify, provided they remain consistent. The remaining spots are up for grabs, with teams like Salaseura, Nürnberg Nidhoggr, and Reckless Panthers battling for the final playoff positions. HC Lisko, HC Ohiveto, Wildcats Esport, and Jurvan Liekki seem destined to miss out, having fallen too far behind the competition. The second half of the season will be crucial for those on the playoff bubble, and every game will carry significant weight as the battle for Group 2’s top eight intensifies.

Group 3: 
Group 3 has been one of the most competitive and intriguing groups in the ECL '25 Winter Core season. While the Silver Sword Griffins have solidified their position as the dominant team, the race for the remaining playoff spots remains fiercely contested. With only the top eight teams advancing, the group’s middle-tier teams are engaged in a high-stakes battle, while those at the bottom are running out of time to turn their seasons around. Let’s analyze the current standings and determine who will likely make the playoffs and who is at risk of missing out.

Playoff Locks

Silver Sword Griffins are the undisputed leaders of Group 3, sitting at the top with a remarkable record of 15-1-1-1 and 48 points. Their offensive unit, led by LATMinx with 58 points, has been relentless, scoring a group-high 90 goals so far. On defense, kriteris has been a standout, contributing both offensively (36 points) and defensively. The Griffins' balanced approach, coupled with consistent performances, guarantees their playoff spot and establishes them as one of the top contenders for the championship.

PANIC ON ICE has secured their place as another playoff lock. With 33 points and an 11-0-0-3 record, they have been clinical in their performances. Their special teams are among the best in the league, with a power play conversion rate of 44% and a penalty kill operating at an astounding 92.86%. Offensively, players like wpaananen and moikka11 have carried the team, ensuring that they remain one of the group’s most dangerous squads heading into the postseason.

Turun Gasellit have quietly built a strong campaign, sitting in second place with 36 points. Their offense has been spearheaded by pohjarzinho, whose 48 points make him one of the top contributors in the group. The Gasellit’s ability to adapt to different opponents and maintain steady performances across all areas of the ice makes them a playoff lock as well.

KELAGOLDCARD HC is another team that has virtually assured a playoff spot. Their balanced attack, led by Romurallimies with 57 points, and their defensive stability have kept them competitive in every game. With 74 goals scored and only 45 conceded, they are well-positioned to secure a strong seed heading into the playoffs.

HC Last Resort, with 27 points, sits comfortably in fifth place but remains within striking distance of the lower seeds. Their defense has been their strength, conceding just 44 goals across 16 games. However, their lack of consistent offensive output could become an issue as the playoff race tightens. To solidify their position, they will need continued contributions from players like Tolliikkii, who has been their most reliable scorer.

Pulp Odyssey, currently sixth with 25 points, has been a resilient team this season. While they’ve struggled offensively (2.5 GF/GP), their disciplined defense has kept them competitive. Their playoff chances will depend heavily on their ability to find scoring consistency in the latter half of the season.

BACKCHECK BOYS currently sit in eighth place with 16 points. While they’ve struggled to find consistency, their ability to perform in tight games gives them hope. Their playoff fate will hinge on their ability to maintain focus in critical matchups and avoid dropping points against lower-ranked teams.

MIESKISSAT, with just 14 points, has struggled throughout the season. Despite moments of individual brilliance, such as the efforts of karhuperuna, the team has been unable to piece together consistent performances. Their defensive struggles, highlighted by an average of 4.79 goals conceded per game, have left them on the outside looking in

Likely to Miss the Playoffs
RODIS holds the seventh spot with 17 points, but their position is precarious. They’ve shown flashes of potential, particularly on offense, but their defense has been a major liability, conceding 88 goals—the second-most in the group. Since they have finished all their games and have teams close behind them with games left to play, I don't see the team having much chance of making the playoffs.

Brunker Bulldogs, also with 14 points, have endured a disappointing season. Their lack of offensive firepower (30 goals scored) has made it difficult for them to stay competitive, even in closely contested games. While their defensive play has been respectable at times, it hasn’t been enough to compensate for their scoring woes.

Kurbads Warriors, with just 10 points, are effectively out of the playoff race. Despite a few strong individual performances, their inability to generate consistent offense or defend effectively has left them languishing near the bottom of the standings.

Summary: Who’s In, Who’s Out?

With just a few games left in the group stage, the playoff picture in Group 3 is beginning to solidify. The Silver Sword Griffins, PANIC ON ICE, Turun Gasellit, and KELAGOLDCARD HC are locks for the postseason, while HC Last Resort and Pulp Odyssey are in strong positions but still need to remain consistent. The final two playoff spots are likely to be contested between RODIS, BACKCHECK BOYS, and perhaps an outside push from MIESKISSAT or Brunker Bulldogs, though the latter two have a slim margin for error. Meanwhile, Kurbads Warriors are out of the race and will likely look ahead to the next season. The battle for Group 3’s playoff spots is far from over, and the remaining games promise high-stakes drama as teams fight to secure their postseason dreams.

Group 4: 
Group 4 has delivered a mix of surprises and consistency, making the playoff race both thrilling and unpredictable. While certain teams like Tikitaka and SKYFALL have established themselves as top contenders, the middle of the table remains fiercely contested, with every game playing a pivotal role. As the battle for the top eight intensifies, let’s dive into the playoff picture to see who is likely to make it and who risks falling short.

Playoff Locks

Tikitaka has been the standout team in Group 4, with a record of 10-2-2 and 36 points. Their balanced play and cohesive team structure have made them a formidable opponent. Their offensive leader, TansKungen, has been exceptional, consistently producing in key moments. Despite a subpar power play (7.14%), Tikitaka has relied on strong even-strength performances to maintain their dominance. With their current form, they are virtually guaranteed a playoff spot and are poised to secure a top seed.

Lutunilkat, currently in fifth place with 27 points, has quietly built a reputation as one of the most consistent teams in the group. Their nine-game unbeaten streak has been a testament to their disciplined defense, anchored by goaltender Hiatala_, and their reliable offensive output from players like Pyssyh. Lutunilkat’s ability to grind out close games makes them a playoff lock and a dangerous opponent in the postseason.

Rusty X, with 30 points and in second place, has been one of the season’s surprises. While they haven’t dominated in any one area, their balanced performances have kept them in the hunt. Forward Kasterly_ has led the team offensively, while their defense has held strong in key moments. Their consistency puts them in a solid position to make the playoffs, though they’ll need to avoid slipping in the final stretch.

SKYFALL has also been a force to be reckoned with, sitting in third place with 30 points. Their offense has been spearheaded by the electrifying stu_rulez, whose 54 points make him one of the most dangerous players in the league. SKYFALL’s offense, with 76 goals scored so far, has been their greatest weapon. However, occasional defensive lapses have kept games closer than necessary, something they’ll need to address heading into the playoffs. Nevertheless, their position in the top eight seems secure.

Karmadillos, sitting in fourth with 28 points, have been a team of streaks. When they’re in form, they can compete with the best, but inconsistency has kept them from joining the group’s elite. Offensively, stimperi has been a standout performer, helping the team stay competitive. If they can maintain their current trajectory, they should comfortably secure a playoff spot.

Sopranos, in seventh place with 21 points, are a team teetering on the edge. While their offense has been effective, led by kalle244, defensive frailties have often let them down in critical situations. Their fate will likely be decided in the final games, as they need a strong finish to keep themselves in the top eight.

The Solution, currently in sixth place with 22 points, have relied on defensive stability to remain competitive. While their offense has been underwhelming, their penalty kill (94.44%) has kept them in games. Their playoff hopes are solid, but they must find ways to generate more scoring if they hope to succeed in the postseason.

EHC Olten eSports, holding the eighth spot with 18 points, are hanging on by a thread. Their offense has been inconsistent, but they’ve shown flashes of resilience in tight games. Whether they make the playoffs depends on how they perform against stronger teams in their remaining matchups.
 

Likely to Miss the Playoffs

EV Duisburg, currently in ninth with 16 points, have struggled with defensive lapses (4.31 GA/GP) that have undone many of their efforts. Despite some strong individual performances, their inconsistency has left them vulnerable, and they are at serious risk of missing the postseason.

Dompa HC, with 11 points, have had a tough season. Their lack of depth and defensive frailties (5.25 GA/GP) have kept them from competing against the stronger teams in the group. While mathematically still in contention, their chances of making the playoffs are slim.

Wida Academy, at the bottom with seven points, has endured a challenging season. Their struggles on both ends of the ice have left them unable to compete, and their playoff hopes are effectively over.

Summary: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
At the midway point of the group stage, Tikitaka, SKYFALL, and Lutunilkat are locks for the playoffs, with their consistent performances ensuring their places in the postseason. Karmadillos and Rusty X are also well-positioned, while The Solution, Sopranos, and EHC Olten eSports are battling to secure their spots. At the bottom, EV Duisburg, Dompa HC, and Wida Academy face long odds, with their playoff hopes slipping away. As the second half of the season unfolds, the margins for error will shrink, and every point will be crucial in determining who advances and who falls short. The race for Group 4’s top eight promises to be one of the most exciting in the league.

ECL '25 Winter Core: Mid-Season Summary and Playoff Forecast
The ECL '25 Winter Core season has reached its halfway point, delivering a thrilling blend of standout performances, fierce competition, and surprises across the board. As the race for playoff spots intensifies, certain teams and players have emerged as favorites to claim the championship, while others have struggled to find their footing. With the group stage nearing its conclusion, the battle for supremacy promises to reach new heights. Here’s an all-encompassing summary of the season so far and predictions for what’s to come.

The Teams: Dominance and Surprises
At the top of the league, Dynamo HC and Silver Sword Griffins have been the standout teams, establishing themselves as the clear favorites for the championship. Dynamo HC’s nearly perfect record and league-leading defense (30 goals conceded) make them a formidable force. Their offensive depth, led by Harten7, who has scored 52 points, and the exceptional goaltending of Calxm86 (88.14% save percentage), give them the tools to dominate in the playoffs.
Silver Sword Griffins, on the other hand, boast the league’s most potent offense with 90 goals scored. LATIMix, with 58 points, and defenseman kriiters, with 36 points, have been instrumental in their success. Their ability to control games through both offensive and defensive mastery positions them as a serious title contender.
Behind these leaders, teams like PANIC ON ICE, KOST Wolves, and SKYFALL have also showcased the qualities of potential champions. PANIC ON ICE’s special teams are unmatched, with a power play converting at 44% and a penalty kill operating at an astounding 92.86%. KOST Wolves have relied on the dynamic duo of freez_skillers77 and MaroulCZE, who have combined for over 110 points, making them a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Among the surprises, Tikitaka and Maitojuna have emerged as dark horses. Tikitaka’s balanced team play and strong leadership from TansKungen have turned them into a force to be reckoned with, while Maitojuna’s efficient power play (34.62%) and cohesive playstyle have propelled them into playoff contention despite pre-season doubts.

⭐ The Stars of the Season
As the ECL '25 Winter Core season hits its midway point, five players have risen to the top of the scoring charts, leading their teams with exceptional performances. Their contributions have been vital in securing their teams’ playoff aspirations and making them threats in the postseason.

 Freez_skillers77 (KOST Wolves)
Following closely, Freez_skillers77 has racked up 59 points (38 goals, 21 assists) in 18 games. Freez_skillers77’s goal-scoring prowess has made him a cornerstone of the Wolves’ attack.

RHannu (Prowlers)
With 58 points (37 goals, 21 assists) in just 16 games. His ability to score at crucial moments and his impressive goal-per-game average have made him indispensable to the Prowlers’ playoff push.

LATMinx(Silver Sword Griffins)
Also with 58 points (24 goals, 34 assists) but in 18 games, LATIMix ranks just behind due to his slightly lower points-per-game average. As the creative heart of the Griffins, his ability to orchestrate plays and find the net himself has made him one of the league’s most dynamic forwards.

 MaroulCZE (KOST Wolves)
With 58 points (20 goals, 38 assists) in 20 games, MaroulCZE has established himself as the league’s premier playmaker. His chemistry with linemate Freez_skillers77 has been the driving force behind the Wolves’ offensive dominance.

Romurallimies (KELAGOLDCARD HC)
Rounding out the top five is Romurallimies, who has 57 points (21 goals, 36 assists) in 18 games. His balanced play and ability to contribute in all areas of the game have been vital for KELAGOLDCARD HC’s success this season.

🥅 Elite Goaltenders
As the season unfolds, goaltenders continue to be the cornerstone of their teams’ success in the ECL '25 Winter Core. These netminders have delivered incredible performances, often turning the tide of games with their reliability and skill under pressure. Ranked based on their save percentage and performance impact, here are the top five goaltenders of the season so far, with ties broken by fewer games played.

Calxm86 (Dynamo HC)
With an astounding 88.14% save percentage across 12 games, Calxm86 has been the most reliable goaltender in the league. His performance has been a critical factor in Dynamo HC’s dominance, with just 21 goals allowed while making 156 saves. His consistency and composure in high-pressure situations have cemented Dynamo’s position as a top contender.

Jean-Claes (Nordic Nosebleed)
Jean-Claes has been exceptional for Nordic Nosebleed, recording an 87.90% save percentage over 10 games. His ability to control rebounds and make clutch saves has helped his team stay competitive in tight games. With only 19 goals allowed on 138 shots, he has proven to be a steady force in net.

Hiatala_ (Lutunilkat)
In just seven games, Hiatala_ has emerged as a standout with an 87.50% save percentage. His stellar performance, allowing only 16 goals on 112 shots, has been instrumental in Lutunilkat’s unbeaten streak and defensive strength. Despite fewer appearances, his impact has been profound.

Redhawk1765 (Sopranos)
Playing 12 games, Redhawk1765 boasts an impressive 86.86% save percentage, having faced 152 shots and allowing 23 goals. His ability to maintain composure during close games has been pivotal for the Sopranos, keeping them firmly in the playoff race.

FeikkiNambo (Maitojuna)
With an 86.25% save percentage over 10 games, FelkkIMambo has been a key figure for Maitojuna. Allowing just 22 goals on 138 shots, his performances have solidified Maitojuna’s position as a playoff contender and made him one of the group’s most reliable goaltenders.

Playoff Predictions
The playoff field is shaping up, and certain teams appear poised for deep runs. Dynamo HC and Silver Sword Griffins are the clear frontrunners, with both possessing the depth, balance, and star power needed to make a championship push. PANIC ON ICE, with their disciplined style and special teams, could pose a serious threat to the favorites. Similarly, KOST Wolves, fueled by their high-scoring forwards, are capable of outlasting any opponent in a shootout.

Dark horse teams like Tikitaka and Maitojuna may not have the same star power as the top teams, but their cohesive team play and tactical discipline make them dangerous playoff opponents. SKYFALL, with their high-octane offense led by stu_rulez, could also upset higher-seeded teams if they tighten up defensively.

The ECL '25 Winter Neo season is already over the halfway line for the majority of the teams. Let's take a look at how the groups are shaping up and which teams and players stand out from the others. This report is based on the standings and stats as of December 7th.


Group 1

The battle for the top spot is looking out to be a fight between three teams: Nordic Knights, Ice Raptors and Brothers In Gaming. All of these teams are still yet to play against each other so it will be an exciting last few weeks of the regular season. Currently at the top is the best defensive team of the group so far, Nordic Knights, with 2.33 GAA and an impressive perfect penalty kill. Brothers In Gaming have been the best team offensively averaging almost 6 goals a game. One team to look out for is The Worn Out Wisemen, who still have plenty of games in hand and could make a push for the top if they can finish the season strong.

Top scorer: @Xx_Vador_98, Brothers in Gaming: 15+28=43
Most goals:  @Mesrine_Jak, Brothers In Gaming: 28+14= 42, S% 52,8!!!
Top defenseman: @Method4,  Hawks HC: 2+19=21, 70 Hits
Top goalie: @tubou7181,  Ice Raptors: 8 Wins, 84.94%, 2.78 GAA


Group 2

Viitapohja Vikings has already finished their regular season and are at the top of the standing with 30 points. Both Salaseurue and Hc Left Academy are still eyeing for the group win with one matchup in hand. The battle for the last playoff spots will also be very tight with teams in the lower half of the standings having 2 or 3 matchups left to secure their place.

Top scorer: @nikezuki,  Salaseurue: 23+31=54
Most goals: @Liimiz,  Viitapohja Vikings: 29+18=47
Top defenseman: @oskuuu7,  Salaseurue: 8+10=18
Top goalie: @eekitzu,  Hc Left Academy: 9 Wins, 80.32%, 3.08 GAA

Group 3

Two teams are standing above the others in this group, Red Bull Munich Academy and Taifun Veterans. Red Bull Munich Academy has been one of the highest-scoring teams in the whole league averaging over 6,5 goals a game. They've also been the best team defensively in the group and have excellent special teams numbers. The same could be said about Taifun Veterans who managed to to beat them in both games which could be decisive for the group win.

Top scorer & Most goals: @xSauron_96, Red Bull Munich Academy: 29+34=63
Top defenseman: @Ebaycykaeijjo,  Red Bull Munich Academy: 4+31=35, 53 Hits
Top goalie: @Vindows2608,  Red Bull Munich Academy: 11 Wins, 81.87%, 2.69 GAA, 3 SO

Group 4

Clowns On Ice are one of the two unbeaten teams in the whole division and are showing very strong numbers all around. Together with HC WOLVES, who are topping the group, they are the two best defensive teams in the league both averaging around 2 GAA. Their upcoming matchup will most likely be decisive for the group victory and could even give Clowns On Ice the top seed going into the playoffs.

Top scorer: @PaddyD1412, Clowns On Ice: 25+27=52
Most goals: @Skeleton-1978,  HC WOLVES: 29+22=51
Top defenseman: @FREESWISSELITE1,  Swiss Wolves Esports: 7+12=19
Top goalie: @AndyJester, HC WOLVES:  9 Wins, 90.06%, 1.7 GAA, 1 SO

Group 5

"Perfect record, seven goals for and two goals against on average, surely we're at the top of the standings?" This is what Kasanovat must be wondering but there is one team that has taken the scoring to whole different level. Fallen Rangers have scored almost 10!! goals a game with their top goal scorer having 62 goals in 12 games. Based on how these two teams are playing they could be the teams to beat come playoff time. Their upcoming matchup deciding the group winner is one that you don't want to miss. You can't also not mention Veljeskunta HC who are the second highest scoring team in the league with over 8 goals scored a game and only team that has managed to win Fallen Rangers.

Top scorer & Most goals: @Sebko99, Fallen Rangers: 62+36=98
Top defenseman: @Veljenpoika69, Veljeskunta HC: 8+24=32
Top goalie: @vickerman88,  Kasanovat: 10 Wins, 84.06%, 2.2 GAA, 2 SO

SportsGamers,

We would like to remind every team that the transfer window for all ECL '24: Winter divisions expires tomorrow Friday, December 6th at 23:59:59 CET. 

Quote

14. 1 Transfer Deadline
​​​​The deadline for transfers across all divisions is set to the 6th of December at 23:59 CE(S)T.
A player cannot leave a team after the deadline has passed in one division, and then join a team in
another division where the deadline has not. 

Please remember to make sure your trades are in line with the rulebook before making them and check with support if you aren't sure. Remember, only one transfer per player is allowed per season - unless the player has played 0 games (overall, for any team) the entire season, which is covered in rule 14.6.

If you're a player still looking for a team or a team still looking to add to your roster, please head to the Free Agents section or the Clubs Looking For Players section on our forum.

Please post any last-minute transfers in the comments section below so everyone can enjoy them. 

The SportsGamer Wraparound looks to bring you weekly conversations around the league, recapping some of the events around the divisions throughout the week.

Remember to post your highlights on socials using the hashtag #ECL25Clips and reach out if you would be interested in appearing on the Wraparound in the form of interviews or additional content.
 

Limited Time Offer: Get a free ticket to Assembly Winter 2025 on Thursday, February 20th! Come and enjoy the ECL ‘25: Winter - Elite Finals and hang out with the community. Once you’ve purchased your ECL license, fill out this form to apply for your free ticket. Act fast—tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. https://forms.gle/eZdDm63kdv3ksa4L9
 

League Administrative Announcement: Disqualification of Unwanted from ECL Elite

SportsGamer has recently become aware of a publicly posted image originating from Unwanted’s team WhatsApp group. The image contained racist content.

Following a thorough investigation, we confirmed that the content was authentic (i.e., not altered) and found that several players from Unwanted attempted to deceive and obstruct the League Administration (LA) during this process. Members of the team even went so far as to create fake screenshots, falsely claiming these were the original conversations that had been Photoshopped. Such behavior carries significant penalties.

Decision and Implications
Given these findings, and after thorough deliberation among LA members, we have decided to disqualify Unwanted from the ongoing ECL Elite season.
For the purposes of relegation and standings, the season will proceed as though it was played with 16 teams, with Unwanted finishing in 16th place.

Player Suspensions
In addition to the team disqualification, individual players from Unwanted have received suspensions. These suspensions, effective immediately, will apply to all SportsGamer tournaments as follows:

• @Snus97_: Suspended until December 2nd, 2025
• @Suth98_: Suspended until June 17th, 2025. Cover Gamer status has been revoked.
• @bystrom___ & @LaxenHD: Suspended until the April 5th, 2025 
• @Johansson-37: Suspended until the February 21st, 2025

The remaining roster is allowed to go, join, and play for another team this season (providing the usual transfer rules are satisfied, of course).

Resetting Community Standards
LA has previously received feedback that our responses to similar incidents were insufficient. Moving forward, we are resetting the standard for player conduct. Any player found engaging in racist behavior will face strict disciplinary action, including severe bans.
This decision reflects our intent to provide an opportunity for players to learn and improve. We also discourage witch hunts targeting historical incidents, such as old screenshots or videos, as this detracts from fostering a positive and forward-looking community.

Supporting Positive Growth
To support this vision, SportsGamer will establish an initiative providing a safe and supportive space where players can seek advice from vetted peers (players). This effort aims to reduce the toxicity currently pervasive in the community.
Players should be able to grow both on and off the ice without being subjected to insults or bullying from more established players. While details are still being finalized, we are committed to creating a more inclusive, welcoming environment for all participants.

This article is written based on the status before the games marked November 28th, 00:00 EET

As we wrap up weeks 1 and 2 of the ECL Pro division, we still have 3 weeks left of the regular season, and oh boy has it been a rollercoaster so far. In this article, we will only highlight a few teams and players who have either overperformed their expectations or underperformed. More to come in the mid-season report.

Both groups seem to have been off to a quick start, with many teams already playing 10+ games, now comes the important stretch of games where teams start to drift into playoff positions.

Group 1
Even after being highlighted as one of the best teams in Group 1 this season, Zenegeim has outperformed that prediction. They have shown that only a few teams can match their pace this season, and with an average of 2.7 points-per-game, they are a lock to be Group 1 winners at the end of the regular season. With an impressive 18 points @Juhaniz- is tied for the lead in points with @Azzez_88 for defensemen this season. Creeping up on them is former Elite division standout and veteran @KingOfApes_ with 17 points.

Another positive standout to start the season has to be Blackbirds. After a few seasons in Lite and a few acquisitions later, they now rank second in points-per-game and have the leading goalscorer in the entire division @aomyo6195, who is tied at 20 goals, although @AdriF_23 has one more game played at the time of writing.

All is well when speaking of top performers, however, this wouldn’t be a good article if we didn’t mention some underperformers, and the clear one is Deadly Phantoms; with 9 points in 10 games the German side hasn’t shown their experience yet, as the younger and hungrier teams have surprised them.

Team to watch for the rest of the season: Owned Hexa

With a deadly duo of @AdriF_23 & @Winci putting up points this season, this team might just see themself in the top 3 at the end of the regular season. Now comes the hard part: staying consistent. 

Player to watch for the rest of the season: @Roisto999

With a long history in the ECL, he once again has put up impressive numbers (85,03 SV% & 1,83 GAA). These aren’t easy numbers to produce behind a team that has the majority of possession in most games and doesn't face a ton of shots.

Group 2

An equally impressive start must be mentioned regarding Nostreetsports. With 2.7 points-per-game, they sit at the top of group 2, an impressive start to the season for a team that wasn’t that high on the totem pole in the preview - happy to be proven wrong. With the best offense at the moment in the entire division at 4.7 goals for per game, Nostreetsports are looking to add to their impressive start. On offense, @Toivone_ is leading the way and he sits alone at the top of the Pro division with 38 points (18+20).

Another impressive team to start the season has to be Aspyre, captain @Pekedipeks has really oiled up the machine to get the gears rolling, with their offense going on strong (2.83 GF), their defense now needs to be better to keep their playoff hopes in sight.

One of the most disappointing teams in the entire division this season is RYHTIC, a lackluster start to the season puts them on the wrong side of the playoff line when it comes to point-per-game. In the same boat as them are the Finnish Roosters, with an equally bad start to the season.

Team to watch for the rest of the season: HC Lugano eSports

A team that still has many games to go, this will be a good watch. HC Lugano eSports plays exciting hockey and can make the playoffs with some surprise teams underestimating them.

Player to watch rest of the season: @Limbe65

While his team (RYHTIC) is underperforming, their bright spot Limbe is still shining with 17 goals this year, and this is only the top of the iceberg for the talented winger. Watch him crack 50 goals this season.

The SportsGamer Wraparound looks to bring you weekly conversations around the league, recapping some of the events around the divisions throughout the week.

Remember to post your highlights on socials using the hashtag #ECL25Clips and reach out if you would be interested in appearing on the Wraparound in the form of interviews or additional content.

Limited Time Offer: Get a free ticket to Assembly Winter 2025 on Thursday, February 20th! Come and enjoy the ECL ‘25: Winter - Elite Finals and hang out with the community. Once you’ve purchased your ECL license, fill out this form to apply for your free ticket. Act fast—tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. https://forms.gle/eZdDm63kdv3ksa4L9
 

In case you missed episode 1 and want to revisit the Season Preview and learn more about how you can positively change your subconscious toward more meaningful and qualitative gaming, look no further - the video is embedded below:

A serious situation has arisen concerning the ECL '25: Winter - Elite team "Unwanted" and their members. As such, to allow LA adequate time to come to a decision and not potentially waste the team's opponent's time LA has come to the agreement to suspend Unwanted (the team and its players) until further notice.

Some teams are facing a major problem affecting their team's gameplay. After the latest NHl 25 title update, some players are being kicked out of the game before it even starts. This issue occurs both in public and private games.

Temporary Solution:

1. Create a New PSN ID and EA Account
   This appears to be the only workaround for now to avoid the error and re-enter the game.
    
2. Update Your Playercard on Sportsgamer
   You must update your PSN/GT on your playercard at Sportsgamer to match your new account.
    
3. Contact Support
   Reach out to SportsGamer Support to inform us about your account and PSN/GT change to ensure everything is properly updated.

We understand this is a frustrating issue, but this temporary fix allows affected players to continue participating in games while awaiting an official resolution from EA SPORTS.

Hello, eHockey fans and players! The wait is over—ECL '25 Winter is here, and the Core division is packed with action and anticipation. In this article, we dive into the teams vying for glory across the four groups, spotlighting their performances from last season, key players to watch, and their prospects for the playoffs. From seasoned contenders to fresh faces making their Core debut, we’ll uncover what makes this season an exciting chapter in ECL Core.

This article is intended to provide a detailed and engaging overview of the competition. So, who are the standout stars and dark horses in this competitive mix? Let’s break it down group by group and set the stage for a thrilling season ahead!
 

ECL '25 Winter – Core: Group 1

CapeTown Kings
ECL '24: Spring Performance: Quarterfinalists (Core)

CapeTown Kings showcased an impressive playoff run last season, reaching the quarterfinals in Core. Their offensive duo, led by Sambleri and Beeoo87, combined for a powerful attack, amazing 58 and 49 points, respectively. The team also boasts solid contributions from Black1Eagle1__. Goalkeeper Moneygunx delivered with an 84.34% save percentage. The Kings look to build on this momentum to secure another strong season.

Key Player to Watch: Sambleri

 Dynamo HC

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Winners (Neo)

Dominating Neo in Spring, Dynamo HC has now advanced to Core with a strong roster. Their top scorer Dcon2Silly stood out with 50 points in just 12 games, while Harten7 contributed significantly to their offensive firepower. Proving to be a reliable last line of defense. Dynamo HC’s seamless transition from Neo to Core will be one of the narratives to follow this season.

Key Player to Watch: Dcon2Silly

ERC Ingolstadt

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Missed Playoffs (Core)

ERC Ingolstadt struggled last season, failing to qualify for the playoffs. However, they still feature standout players like Tunnic1991, who was 2nd in  the team in scoring with 18 points. Their goaltender Xd420GaMeR7455 faced challenges but gained valuable experience. If Ingolstadt can tighten their defensive play, they have the potential to climb in the standings.

Key Player to Watch: Tunnic1991

 Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Missed Playoffs (Core)

Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki had a tough Spring campaign but remain determined to make their mark. Their standout skater, TheKapoZ, delivered 16 goals and 17 assists despite the team’s struggles. However, they’ll need stronger goaltending, as Larde64 posted a save percentage below 80%. Improvement in net could help them compete for a playoff spot.

Key Player to Watch: TheKapoZ

 Koppibuutti

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Round 1 Exit (Core)

Koppibuutti had a decent Spring season, qualifying for the playoffs but falling short in the first round. Their offensive duo of Jorkkilainen and ruttopottu impressed with over 40 points each. Goaltender Adelyn10 was a standout, with a remarkable 87.61% save percentage. This balance between offense and defense makes Koppibuutti a strong contender in Group 1.

Key Player to Watch: Jorkkilainen

 Pillipiiparit

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Missed Playoffs (Core)

Despite missing the playoffs, Pillipiiparit showed glimpses of potential. Skater Nnispe led the team with 31 points, but their overall offensive depth was lacking. Goalie VanhaKorppu faced heavy pressure and posted a save percentage of 81.27%. Pillipiiparit will need to step up both offensively and defensively to have a shot at the playoffs this season.

Key Player to Watch: Nnispe

 Prowlers

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Quarterfinalists (Core)

Prowlers had a strong Spring season, with their top scorer RHannu leading the charge with an impressive 63 points. Supported by Kvarneen and an airtight defensive system, they made it to the quarterfinals. Goaltender Tizjeflen was one of the league’s best, boasting an 89.29% save percentage. Prowlers enter this season as one of the favorites in Group 1.

Key Player to Watch: RHannu

RAIDERS HC

ECL '24 Spring Performance: Playoff Contenders (Neo)

RAIDERS HC performed well in Neo last season, reaching the playoffs. Their transition to Core will be led by Dens1935, who amassed 63 points in 20 games. Goalie Duff_Man2309 was solid in net with an 80.99% save percentage. If they adapt quickly to the higher level of competition, RAIDERS HC could surprise many.

Key Player to Watch: Dens1935

 Taskubilis

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Round 2 Exit (Core)
Taskubilis showed resilience last season, advancing to the second round of the playoffs. Their core players, including Jalitmane10, delivered consistent performances. Goaltender Pinson91 provided stability with a 77.99% save percentage. With their balanced approach, Taskubilis is expected to be a playoff contender once again.

Key Player to Watch: Jalitmane10

Newcomers to Watch

 SCRUBS

Newcomers SCRUBS bring a mix of talent and experience to the Core division. Lokterpengar leads the offense with an impressive 30 points in 8 games during ECL 11 Neo, supported by IGurrAI with 39 points from last season in Core.

Defensively, HerrLarsson80 adds physicality, while Darkfox_fire_bal offers offensive versatility. In goal, Nobigdeals and gremlingswe will aim to improve their consistency.

SCRUBS’ offensive depth makes them a potential dark horse this season.

Key Player to Watch: Lokterpengar

The Ghillie Gang

The Ghillie Gang enters the ECL Core as a largely inexperienced team, with most of the roster making their competitive debut. Goalie Janucek brings the only notable experience from previous Core seasons, providing some stability.

While little is known about the team’s overall potential, their debut season will focus on building chemistry and finding their footing in the division.

Key Player to Watch: Janucek

Predicted Standings (AI generated)

1. Prowlers
2. CapeTown Kings
3. Taskubilis
4. Dynamo Hc
5. Koppibuutti
6. RAIDERS HC
7. The Ghillie Gang
8. Hiljainen Pikkukaupunki
9. SCRUBS
10. Pillipiiparit
11. ERC Ingolstadt

ECL '25 Winter – Core: Group 2

 ARMEIJAN KURI
 

ARMEIJAN KURI enters the Core division with a highly skilled and experienced roster. The team is spearheaded by MutainenMalik, who delivered a phenomenal 54 points in 18 games last season, leading the offense with his scoring and playmaking abilities. Supporting him are and Wirtaazkin47, who contributed and 46 points respectively, forming a dynamic offensive trio capable of dominating games.

Defensively, SUONEKASKOSTAJA_ and wertigosetti19 add stability. ARMEIJAN KURI’s blend of offensive firepower and defensive reliability makes them a formidable opponent this season.

Key Player to Watch: MutainenMalik

 NAM3LESS

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Mid-table finish (Core)
NAM3LESS had a competitive but inconsistent Spring campaign. Their standout forward, jimmiNOhands, recorded an impressive 56 points, supported by altsu23 with 46 points. Goalie saberLionZero posted a respectable 83.85% save percentage, ensuring the team remained competitive in most games. This season, they’ll aim to translate their offensive firepower into more consistent results.

Key Player to Watch: jimmiNOhands

HC Lisko

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Struggled (Core)
HC Lisko endured a challenging season, with their top scorer Laspar contributing 29 points. Despite their struggles, they have potential in their core. Goalie tolbati was a bright spot, with an 82.12% save percentage. Improvement in both offense and defense is essential for Lisko to remain competitive in Group 2.

Key Player to Watch: Laspar

 KOST Wolves

ECL '24: Winter Performance: Promoted (Neo)
KOST Wolves are new to Core after a strong Neo season. Led by MaroulCZE with 55 points. Goalie Gorkis24CZ has the skills to be a game-changer with a 80.7% save percentage. Their challenge will be adapting to the higher level of competition in Core.

Key Player to Watch: MaroulCZE

 Jurvan Liekki

ECL '24: Winter Performance: Mid-table finish (Core)
Jurvan Liekki is a resilient team, led by Aap3li-00 with 54 points and heeb__ close behind with 52. Their strong offensive core makes them a playoff contender. Goalie adez1601 provides solid back-end support, with an 83.46% save percentage. If they tighten their defense, Liekki can climb the standings.

Key Player to Watch: Aap3li-00

 HC Ohiveto

ECL '24 Winter Performance: Promoted (Neo)
HC Ohiveto’s promotion comes on the back of a solid Neo campaign. hefezuk85 dominated offensively with 83 points, while LeMagnifique2 and Hawkes_  added depth. Their goalie kasuri1 was phenomenal, with an outstanding 89.23% save percentage. Ohiveto has the potential to surprise many in Group 2.

Key Player to Watch: hefezuk85

 Wildcats eSport I

ECL '24 Spring Performance: Mid-table finish (Core)
Wildcats eSport had a steady but unremarkable campaign, with Julien92i4760 leading the charge with 38 points. They rely heavily on multimillar88 and Batou-76R for scoring.

Key Player to Watch: Julien92i4760

 Nordic Nosebleed

ECL '24 Winter Performance: Playoff Contenders (Core)
Nordic Nosebleed had a strong season, with Sayatu14 racking up 55 points. With consistent performances from jcarlton89, they are expected to be one of the top teams in Group 2.

Key Player to Watch: Sayatu14

 Nurnberg Nidhoggr

ECL '24 Spring Performance: Mid-table finish (Core)
Nurnberg Nidhoggr is a defensively solid team, with ITA-Pizzabaecker leading the offense with 30 points. They’ll need more contributions from their supporting cast to compete for a playoff spot..

Key Player to Watch: ITA-Pizzabaecker

New Teams to Watch

 Reckless Panthers: 

The Panthers step into the ECL Core with a mix of seasoned Core players and promising talent. Notable additions include forward Palawatsch, whose standout performance in the Spring season with HC Lugano Academy produced 38 points in just 12 games, and Schuster060796, an all-round forward with a proven record of 46 points across 20 games.

On the defensive side, XBeast_of_MercyX brings solid two-way play and experience from Huskies eSports, while goalie just-boopi provides a reliable presence in net after a strong season with Crazy Capricorns.

Key Player to Watch: Palawatsch

 Maitojuna

Maitojuna enters the ECL Core as a fresh addition, bringing a mix of untested players and a few with prior ECL experience. The backbone of their roster comes from Aake Kallialan Laituri, with standout performances from forward Minaolenmakke, who tallied 36 points in 20 games during the Spring season, showcasing a knack for finishing and playmaking.

The team's goaltending duo, proffa82 and Jurkkaa, both had solid showings last season, posting save percentages of 85.93% and 84.18% respectively, ensuring a dependable last line of defense. While many on the roster are ECL newcomers, their mix of energy and adaptability may make them a wildcard in the competition.

Key Player to Watch: Minaolenmakke

 Salaseura

Salaseura makes its debut in ECL Core, bringing a roster that blends experienced players from Neo-level success and fresh talent venturing into their first ECL campaign. The team's strength lies in its offensive depth, with standout forwards like velmu2 and old_33 leading the charge. Velmu2 notched an impressive 38 points in 14 games last season, while old_33 contributed 34 points, proving their ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.

On the defensive end, Salaseura can count on solid goaltending from Aivokuollut__, who recorded an impressive 86.73% save percentage and a 1.86 GAA in the Spring Neo season. With such consistency in net and a potent offense, Salaseura looks poised to make a competitive entry into the Core division.

Key Player to Watch: Velmu2

AI Predicted Standings

1. ARMEIJAN KURI
2. NAM3LESS
3. Nurnberg Nidhoggr
4. KOST Wolves
5. Nordic Nosebleed
6. Maitojuna
7. Wildcats esport I
8. Hc Ohiveto
9. HC Lisko
10. Salaseura,
11. Reckless Panthers
12. Jurvan Liekki

ECL '25 Winter – Core: Group 3
 

 Silver Sword Griffins

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Quarterfinal Exit (Core)
Silver Sword Griffins (SSG) enter this season as a solid playoff contender. LATMinx led the charge last season with 40 points, while SchoolBoyZFN and martinssilins provided essential secondary scoring. Their goalie gacorigavecit17 was reliable with an 83.93% save percentage. With a balanced roster, they have the tools to challenge for a top spot in Group 2.

Key Player to Watch: LATMinx

 PANIC ON ICE

ECL '24: Spring Core Performance:  Round 1 Exit (Core)
Panic On Ice showcased strong offensive depth last season, led by TemeF1Nx  (who has now left the team) with 57 points, moikka11 with 54, and TVNIILO9494 contributing 50. Their balanced playstyle and disciplined defense make them a tough opponent. sMiiga has replaced FlaaZii in the net. He comes from a solid performance in the pro team Mustaa Kultaa where he was backup 24 winter. he has on his side Jam66_Bo who looks to be counted as backup under 25 spring, ensuring consistency. With their offensive firepower and reliable goaltending, Panic On Ice is a strong playoff contender.

Key Player to Watch: moikka11

 Turun Gasellit

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Mid-table finish (Lite)
After a respectable Lite season, Turun Gasellit have moved up to Core. pohjarzinho were their standout performer with over 40 points. Despite their offensive strengths, their goalie SirRaitanen struggled with a 74.15% save percentage. Improved defensive play will be essential for success in Core.

Key Player to Watch: pohjarzinho

 HC Last Resort

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Mid-table finish (Core)
HC Last Resort faced challenges last season but has signed Tolliikkii from Refuse Too Lose where he scored 76 points in 26 games. Their goalie Vxxlle-_-showed potential with an 81.48% save percentage. If their defense improves, Last Resort could surprise many in this competitive group.

Key Player to Watch: Tolliikki

 Pulp Odyssey

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Playoff Contenders (Core)
Pulp Odyssey had a strong Spring season, led by Valosaari92, who tallied 23 points. They also benefited from balanced contributions from Kemboi92. Goalie IrJe2023 was a standout, with an 83.63% save percentage. This season, Pulp Odyssey is expected to continue their push for playoff success

Key Player to Watch: Valosaari92

 BACKCHECK BOYS

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Promoted (Neo)
BACKCHECK BOYS had a stellar run in Neo, earning promotion to Core. Ydstie99 led the way with 43 points, while hedstrom_1999 provided key secondary scoring. Their goalie Davvem26 delivered a solid 81.82% save percentage. As newcomers, they’ll aim to establish themselves early in Core competition.

Key Player to Watch: Ydstie99

 Brunker Bulldogs

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Struggled (Core)
Brunker Bulldogs faced a challenging season, finishing near the bottom of the table. Despite the struggles, Ederby74 was a bright spot with 40 points. Goalie Igelkottskonung recorded an 81.22% save percentage but faced heavy workloads. They’ll need a collective improvement to climb the standings this season.

Key Player to Watch: Ederby74

New Teams to Watch

 Kurbads Warriors:

Formerly known as the Latvian Warriors, Kurbads Warriors return to the Core division with a familiar core of players and a mix of fresh ambitions. The team is built around its offensive centerpiece, Kekava, who was a dominant force in the Winter Core season, amassing an impressive 59 points in 18 games, showcasing both goal-scoring prowess and playmaking ability.

On the defensive side, the team benefits from the experience of ZeJukums, who contributed 23 points last season with the Silver Sword Griffins, bringing valuable Core-level experience to the squad. In goal, scorps_13 leads the charge with a solid 83.62% save percentage and a GAA of 2.38, providing stability between the pipes.

Key Player to Watch: Kekava

 KELAGOLDCARD HC

KELAGOLDCARD HC steps into the Core division with a mix of returning players and newcomers eager to make an impression. The standout among the roster is Romurallimies, who had a strong performance in the Lite division last season, tallying 37 points in 18 games with the BushWhackers. His goal-scoring and clutch play, highlighted by six game-winning goals, will be a key asset for the team.

With several players making their ECL debut and others returning after a break, the team’s chemistry and adaptability will play a significant role in their success. Goalie K3mpny begins his first ECL campaign, bringing intrigue to the team's defensive setup.

Key Player to Watch: Romurallimies

 RODIS

Enters the Core division as a fresh contender with a roster comprising both debutants and returning players. While many players, including goalie Pekkakaukalo23 and forward marjala7, are stepping onto the ECL stage for the first time, the team also features experienced individuals such as Pallomasi24 and Puuhastelija24, who bring valuable insight from past campaigns.

The team's success will depend on how quickly the roster can gel and adapt to the competitive demands of the Core division. With a mix of fresh talent and seasoned players, RODIS is poised to be an unpredictable opponent.

Key Player to Watch: Kortsupipo66

 MIESKISSAT

Enters the Core division as an entirely new team, with all players making their ECL debut. While their lack of experience at this level presents a challenge, it also brings unpredictability and fresh energy to the competition.

Led by goalie MikkeH and a roster full of first-time participants, the team’s success will hinge on their ability to quickly adapt to the demands of the Core division. With enthusiasm and the opportunity to grow, MIESKISSAT is a true wildcard in this season's competition.

Key Player to Watch: BoomeriGaimeri

AI Predicted Standings

1. Silver Sword Griffins
2. PANIC ON ICE
3. Pulp Odyssey
4. KELAGOLDCARD HC
5. HC Last Resort
6. BACKCHECK BOYS
7. MIESKISSAT
8. Turun Gasellit
9. Kurbads Warriors
10. Brunker Bulldogs
11. RODIS

The battle for playoff spots will be fierce, with several teams poised to surprise. Let the games begin!

ECL '25 Winter – Core: Group 4 Preview

 SKYFALL

ECL '22 Winter Performance:  Solid Mid-table Finish (Core)
SKYFALL is led by their offensive powerhouse stu_rulez, who tallied an impressive 69 points last season the team played. Supported by Koutsinaattori, this team boasts a strong offensive. SKYFALL’s depth makes them a strong playoff contender.

Key Player to Watch: stu_rulez

  Rusty X

ECL '24 Spring Performance: Relegated (Lite to Core)
Rusty X arrives in Core after a weak season in Lite. Kasterly_ was a top scorer with 20 points, but the team needs consistent contributions from its supporting cast. Rusty X will look to build on their momentum.

Key Player to Watch: Kasterly_

 EHC Olten eSports

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Struggled (Lite)
EHC Olten had a tough time last season, with Stevekoeck standing out offensively with 45 points. Goalie House_Pro was dependable, with a 74.74% save percentage. The team needs to improve its defensive play to be competitive in Core.

Key Player to Watch: Stevekoeck

 Karmadillos

ECL '23: Winter Performance: Mid-table (Lite)
Karmadillos bring balance to their lineup, highlighted by stimperi’s offensive contributions (46 points) for HC Palosaari last ecl but they need some strong goaltending from VilppiSami. They’ll rely on experience to navigate the challenges of Core.

Key Player to Watch: stimperi

 The Solution

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Struggled (Lite)
The Solution will depend on Platy666 and Staggelito to lead the scoring, but their defensive record remains a concern. Goalie Liimp_92 will need to perform at his peak for the team to climb the standings.

Key Player to Watch: Platy666

 EV Duisburg

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Competitive (Core)
EV Duisburg impressed last season with GreatOne139 leading their attack (28 points) and goalie MarvinJVfL1848 showcasing stellar performances, with an 88.47% save percentage. This team is well-positioned to secure a playoff spot.

Key Player to Watch: GreatOne139

 Dompa HC

ECL '24: Winter Performance: Relegated (Lite)
Dompa HC’s Relegated comes after a week Lite season, where L-sk1y-L led the offense with 49 points. Goalie. Their success depends on how they adapt to Core competition.

Key Player to Watch: L-sk1y-L

 Lutunilkat

ECL '24: Spring Performance: Playoff Contenders (Core)
Lutunilkat’s offense revolves around Pyssyh (58 points) and lutuniemi (56 points). Goalie Hiatala_ supports their campaign with an impressive 85.79% save percentage. Lutunilkat has the depth and talent to be a top team in Group 4.

Key Player to Watch: Pyssyh

New Teams to Watch

 Tikitaka

Tikitaka enters the Core division with a mix of players returning to the ECL and a few newcomers eager to make their mark. The standout in the roster is TansKungen, who delivered an impressive 32 points in 20 games for Carpe Diem in Lite last season, showcasing his ability to lead the offense. Niccoers adds further scoring depth, coming off a strong Neo campaign with 27 points in 14 games.

In goal, HakkisBro will make his ECL debut, anchoring a team that will need strong defensive performances to complement their offensive talent. With a mix of proven scorers and returning players, Tikitaka is poised to be a competitive addition to the Core division.

Key Player to Watch: TansKungen

 Wida Academy

Wida Academy steps into the Core division with a roster blending ECL experience and fresh talent. Forward karwa22 stands out as the team’s offensive leader, with an impressive 24 points in 14 games during the Spring Core season. He’ll be supported by Jonzei, a consistent contributor who tallied 19 points in just nine games in Neo.

On the defensive side, eeppo88 brings Core-level experience, adding stability and two-way capability. In goal, ju_lle makes his ECL debut, anchoring the team as they adapt to the challenges of Core competition.

With its mix of scoring talent and returning players, Wida Academy has the potential to make a competitive impact in its first Core season.

Key Player to Watch: karwa22

 Sopranos

Sopranos make their return to the Core division with a roster featuring experienced Core-level players and a few new faces. Leading the team is kalle244, a proven offensive powerhouse who recorded an impressive 56 points in 22 games with North Sawo Lions. Supporting him is bnkoXD, who delivered 39 points in the Spring Core season, showcasing his scoring ability and clutch performances.

The team’s depth is further strengthened by Heatley91 and asaastamo, both contributing consistently with over 25 points each last season. In goal, Redhawk1765 steps into his first ECL campaign, adding an element of uncertainty to their defensive setup.

With a mix of high-caliber forwards and experienced Core veterans, the Sopranos are well-positioned to make a strong comeback this season.

Key Player to Watch: kalle244

AI Predicted Standings

1. SKYFALL
2. Lutunilkat
3. Sopranos
4. Tikitaka
5. Karmadillos
6. EV Duisburg
7. Wida Academy
8. Rusty X
9. EHC Olten eSports
10. Dompa HC
11. The Solution
     

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.

Social media
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:
17.11-19.12.2024

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 Core Finals 31.1.-1.2.2025

Good luck to all the teams as they hit the virtual ice. Have fun and let the games begin!

Steffen @Suth98_ Sutherland has had a really interesting and different path into the ECL community. Suth found his way onto the virtual ice for the first time in NHL 12 and he fell in love especially with Franchise Mode. In his own words, he didn't know anything about the online aspect of the game at that time. Suth played his first ECL season in ECL 11 in the Lite division after his friend recommended ECL to him.
Suth has also had an unusual journey as a player; during his whole career, Suth has played for the same team for the majority of his career. Although the team now known as Unwanted has had different names, the core group of players has remained pretty much the same. The public perception of Suth is that he is a great team player both on and off the ice, a great captain and leader, a great point scorer, and an all-around gentleman player.

We asked Suth's long-time teammates @Snus97_ & @Henka0009 to describe him as a teammate and as a player:

"Well, Suth as a player, it’s like hard to describe. He isn’t the best at something specific but my god as a whole player and as a centerman he’s one of the best in this scene for sure. His ability to see his teammates and to do very important goals is elite. He’s also a really good captain. Me, Suth, and Henka have driven this team forward for some years now and he’s very good at making good decisions for the team. And that reflects on how he’s as a teammate and a person. He’s a very funny guy but at the same time he can be serious, i think it’s a good combination." - Snus97_ 

"Suth has been my teammate since forever I feel. I think I’ve played a total of 3 seasons without him. He has always shown a typical leadership personality, dedicated to practice and being better each and every day. He’s also really easygoing, so to speak, toward everyone, and it is a key part of holding our team together. For me, it’s hard to play the game without him. He makes me 10 times better than I actually am. We have never truly spoken about any “tactics” and stuff regarding NHL. I feel like we just think the same where we want each other to be in certain situations. It’s hard to describe but I can say that without him or Snus_97 in my team, I would never play. The best thing about Suth is that he’s not a “try hard”. We are just playing the game to have fun and joke around. He always brings the joy in the game and party." - Henka0009
 

Now, making history as the first Norwegian player to be honored as the Cover Gamer for the upcoming ECL '24 Winter season, Suth takes the center stage together with Unwanted, in an attempt to recreate another successful season.
 

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 🇫🇮
 

ECL '25: Winter - Intro video by @ProMinx24

Interview with Suth

How does it feel to be chosen as the cover gamer of the top NHL Esports league?

"It feels really good, when I look at the list of former cover gamers I only see insane players, so it's a compliment, and I'm honored about it for sure."
 

What has been the best moment in your career so far?

"I don't have only 1 specific moment, but the thing I'm most proud about is taking what feels like my own team from Lite all the way to Elite and back-to-back playoffs. So the journey as a whole is my favorite moment."

What do you enjoy most about competing at the highest level?

"It's really fun to play for something, and especially in Elite, every game matters so much. And you can also beat and lose to anyone so it's important to have 100% focus in every matchup."

What are some of your personal goals for the upcoming ECL season?

"I don't really have any personal goals, I just want to do my best for the team. It's always fun to score and make good plays but as long as our team and I perform well I'm happy."

And lastly, how do you think staying in the same team/environment for the majority of your career has affected you as a player?

"It has created some special bonds both on and off the virtual ice. Especially with both Henka and Snus. And the more comfortable you are around your teammates/friends, the easier it is to talk about little details on ice and things happening in real life if that makes sense."

Tune in to the Season Opening Broadcast Tonight!

Tune in to the ECL '25: Winter - Elite season opener tonight at twitch.tv/SportsGamerGG! The broadcast starts exceptionally early at 18:45 CET as the first Episode of the SportsGamer Wraparound with Cody @Tougie24 Tougas will introduce us to the new season! 

After months of waiting and eager anticipation, the ECL season is finally in our lives again. Since we last saw each other in July, a lot around the Elite Division has changed. New teams, rebrands, promotions and so much more. Our defending champion rode off into the sunset, three teams were promoted from the Pro Division to Elite, and some former rivals have joined forces to become teammates. I know, that's a lot, but don't worry! We're here to catch you up and give you the rundown of what to expect from each Elite Division team this upcoming season. 

Before we start, let me clarify that the teams are listed in alphabetical order. Though I sprinkle in some of my own personal thoughts on the teams, this is not a standings prediction, so keep that in mind as you read! Also, rosters fluctuate like crazy and some players can be listed on rosters that don't intend on playing, so unless I was informed otherwise about a certain player, everyone listed on the roster is viewed as either a returner or an addition. 

Also, thank you to @Vamoux for providing me with additional facts and background information on each of the teams!

Lastly, remember that this is all just opinions and analysis! You are allowed to disagree with them, just do it respectfully. None of this really means anything and it's all about just trying to come up with good content for the league that people can enjoy, so please don't take anything here to heart. It's not that serious! Ok, that's enough rambling. We have a long list of teams so let's get started!

 EXEN

Last Season: Finished 5th in Regular Season standings, lost in Semifinals vs Valokuitunen Esports in 5 games

Returning Players: 

FWD - Santeri @indi969 Pendolin

FWD - Aapeli @Lxndstrom Landström (played defense last season)

DEF - Aleksi @Mozjayh Kähkönen

G - Kasper @Kaz_zu Ramstedt
 

Roster Additions:

FWD - Väinö @Pikkarii Pikkarainen (joins from Tunnel Vision)

DEF- Veeti @wengerii Paloneva (joins from Tunnel Vision)

DEF - Aaro @xDoumi Ruuhinen (joins from Parasite)

G - Ben @benuh_ Rinnet (joins from Tunnel Vision)
 

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Aaro @xAaro89x Aarvala (transfered to Mustaa Kultaa)

FWD - V-V @cTunkeilija Lampela (transferred to Polski Boys)

Another team that brings back much of its core back from the last season, EXEN is looking to take a step forward after falling in the Semifinals to Valokuittinen last season. 

This team made multiple star additions, adding in a multi-time defender of the year in xDoumi, and former Tunnel Vision staples in wengerii and Pikkari. They also added benuh_ who cemented himself as one of Europe's top goalies last season, as he helped backstop Tunnel Vision to its third championship in their last season as a team. Combine this with the returning core of Lxndstom, Mozjayh, Indi and kaz_zu and you can see why so many people are excited about this team. It's important to note as well that it looks like Lxndstrom will be transitioning to forward after spending the last few seasons at LD for this team, so that will be a move to watch out for this season. 

This is easily EXEN's most talented roster to date and they should be a championship favorite when considering the talent they have at their disposal. The question for EXEN has always been whether they can beat the other top tier teams in the division, especially come playoff time.  If they can, we could see this team make its first final and compete for a trophy in a few months. I feel confident that they'll at least be a Semifinals team again this season; anything less would feel like a bit of a disappointment with this roster quite honestly. Let's see if they get it done.

 Falun Coal Miners

Last Season: Competed in Pro Division, lost in Finals vs Almost Famous in 5 games, lost Elite Relegation Series vs Renascor in 7 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Philip @STRANDMANNEN11 Strandman

FWD - Christoffer @Buffy Mentzer

FWD - Ted @Smayk99 Kempe

DEF - Hampus @l-Furyan-l Duvefelt

DEF - Jonas @Supremski Söderlund

G - Elie @eliekamel87 Kamel

Roster Additions:

G- Johan @McSavid Rundqvist (joins from The Black Jacks)

Utility - Pontus @LastMandalorian Duvefelt

Roster Subtractions:

Utility - Matti @SelanneFIN Makkonen

Look who's back! After choosing to drop down to the Pro Division to rebuild the core of its roster, Falun Coal Miners earned their spot back into Elite after a thrilling seven-game series win over TIKI TALK in the Elite Qualifier last week. An interesting fact about that by the way, they were down 3-1 in that series before ultimately winning three straight games to steal the series, and their captain Furyan scored all four game-winning goals, including two in OT... and he did it as a defenseman! Impressive to say the least. Now the Coal Miners will have to set their sights on staying in the Division for good, and it'll take a familiar group of players for them to do it.

This team only made one addition, but it was one of the best goalies in the ECL in McSavid, who comes over from The Black Jacks after putting up an 84.5sv% in 20 starts. He continues to prove year after year that he is considered one of the best for a reason, and Falun will need him to carry that form over if they want to surpass what many seem to expect from them. Outside of McSavid and Furyan, there isn't a ton of Elite-level experience to be found on the roster, as their lineup will contain multiple rookies at the forward position. We've seen players such as STRANDMANNEN and Buffy have great seasons and become proven point producers in the lower ranks, but can they carry that production over into the golden tier of the ECL? 

I don't think that this is a bad roster, it's far from it, but I do think that there will be growing pains for some of the newer players to this division on their roster. They will need to rely on the experience that they have from players like Furyan, McSavid, and Supremski to keep themselves out of the relegation zone, but luckily for them, it happens to be two of the most proven players at their respective positions that we've seen in Elite. Maybe the adjustment period will be minimized, but that's not something that you can bank on without seeing it.

 GOONS

Last Season: Finished 13th in Regular Season standings, lost Elite Relegation series vs Mustaa Kultaa in 4 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Teemu @tkantola Kantola

FWD - @Xkeineri

DEF - Luka @Easychasniper2 Rönn 

DEF - Sisu @sisu33_ Nurminen

G - Tim @Tuhmakalastaja91 Grönlund

Roster Additions:

FWD - Leo @Lekxsa_70 Hämäläinen (joins from ROBE Esports - Pro Division)

FWD - @xRori83 (joins from Dark Energy HC - Lite Division)

G - Juuso @TheSpeedo Sirkola

Roster Subtractions:

DEF - Kristian @kriketski17 Veijola 

DEF - Tuukka @KingOfApes_ Ropelinen (transferred to NOVA - Pro Division)

FWD/G - Samu @xKeskitalo Keskitalo (transferred to Finnish Roosters - Pro Division)

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. It doesn't feel like all that long ago when GOONS was one of the top teams in this Division and a consistent playoff threat, but the last time they made the playoffs? ECL 22 Spring season. Since then, this team has been on a steady decline, and it hit rock bottom last season when they found themselves finishing 13th in the standings and later being swept in its relegation series against Mustaa Kultaa. Luckily for GOONS, they were thrown a lifeline with the ECL 25 Winter qualifier and swept RYHTIC to earn their way back into the Elite Division.

So can GOONS get back on the right track this season? It'll take a refreshed approach for them to do so, and there are some names both old and new to this team that could help them do it. One is Easychasniper, who will be back with GOONS after playing 14 games with the team last season at defense (he was one of the Grand Finalists in the ECL 24 1v1 season). Lekxsa is another addition to the roster as a rookie, putting up 41 points in 30 games with ROBE Esports in his lone Pro Division season during the Spring. Speedo comes over from Mustaa Kultaa and will play his first full season in Elite after playing 10 games in Pro last season. These three will combine with the experience of Tkantola and Keinari who have played together for some time, as well as Sisu who is not only one of the world's best 1v1 players but has also been a play-drive and point producer at defense in this Division for the past few seasons, even despite some of his team's struggles.

I don't expect GOONS to turn things around entirely or immediately, but I do think that they've taken a step in the right direction. They'll play with a similar identity as past GOONS teams, so lots of hits and lots of counter-attacking, but I think that it'll be done with a bit of a different flavor. Losing Krike, KingOfApes, and Keskitalo hurts, but things were clearly not working for this team. They needed new blood and they got it. My expectation this season will be for GOONS to show progression rather than regression. 

  Heimo

Last Season: Finished 14th in Regular Season standings, won Elite Relegation series vs RYHTIC in 6 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Eemil @Eeemill_  Törnvall

FWD - Jim @SadaPoika Leskinen

DEF - Tuomas @Tumpp1A Aaltonen

DEF - Saku @Sakkem Saaranluoma

G - Jani @Vamoux Jämsäläinen

Roster Additions:

FWD - Otto @xHatsi Hämäläinen (joins from Mustaa Kultaa)

DEF - Aleksi @xSnaipperi Honka (joins from TIKI TALK)

Roster Subtractions:

DEF - A @Akunkku Kuningas 

DEF - @N44TTI_16 (transferred to DILAC - Pro Division)

G - Jani @TeikDaun Honkasaar (transferred to Mythix)

Last season, Heimo struggled to find winning form, with their longest win streak being 2 games and being forced to fight to keep their place in Elite in a relegation series, but they did so successfully and are back in the ECL’s top flight for another season.

They bring in a pair of players in xHatsi and xSnaipperi. Hatsi was a key cog in Muusta Kuulta's Pro Division run last season that eventually earned them a spot in the Elite Division (he had 10 points in four relegation series games), so it'll be interesting to see him lining up down the middle with two captains in Eemil and Sadapoika. Snaipperi comes over from TIKI TALK after being one of the best defenders in the Pro Division last season (40pts in 30 games and a +60 plus/minus). The 18-year-old Fin will be playing his first season in Elite, but he could very well be a Rookie of the Season contender by the end of the Winter campaign. Look out for him.

The last time we saw this group in the playoffs was in ECL Winter 23 under the JANO branding, and you feel like there is a chance that this could change this season. They have a good mix of youth and experience and considering how much the landscape of the Division has shifted since the Spring, you feel like now is as good of a chance as ever for them to make it back. They'll need to find that consistent form, but if they can, Heimo could catch some eyes this season.

  Mustaa Kultaa

Last Season: Competed in Pro Divison, lost in Semifinals vs Falun Coal Miners in 7 games, won Elite Relegation series vs GOONS in 4 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Jaro @jaageri_ Matilainen (on the roster, but will not be available to play this season)

FWD - Alex @Allupekkaz Buntsel

G - Veeti @LatveX Laitinen

Roster Additions:

FWD - Aaro @xAaro89x Aarvala (joins from EXEN)

FWD - Eetu @Launonexx Launonen (joins from Unwanted)

FWD - J-J @NuariJamal Raatikainen (joins from TIKI TALK)

DEF - Mico @Mise Pulli (joins from Gotham Knights)

G - Jere @KASINELONEN Leppikangas 

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Otto @xHatsi Hämäläinen (transferred to Heimo)

FWD - Arttu @Arska Aarnio

FWD -  Jimi @JJimbo- Laitinen

DEF -  Jiri @I_Saarinen_I Saarinen (transferred to Kymmenelta Clubille - Pro Division)

DEF - Lauri @SirLateksi Seimelä (transferred to Kymmenelta Clubille - Pro Division)

G - Miika @sMiiga Koivula (transferred to PANIC ON ICE - Core Division)

One of our two new Elite Division teams (not including rebrands)! As an unbiased and neutral party, I have to admit that it's pretty cool to see Mustaa Kultaa make it to the ECL's top flight for the first time. I called this team's ECL 23 Spring Lite Championship victory in what was their first-ever season as a group, and now just three seasons later, here they are in the Elite division. These are the stories that make this league so fun and make the ECL so unique. Now let's get down to business, this team looks drastically different from past seasons. As a matter of fact, no other Elite Division team exchanged more players than Mustaa Kultaa over the offseason, as they made five additions to the roster while seeing five players depart, and that doesn't even include the team's captain jaageri who will be away this season.

They brought in two of Elite's best-scoring forwards from last season. Launonex returns to Mustaa Kultaa after spending last season with Unwanted, where he was one of the best rookie skaters in the league with 55 points and had a great case for winning rookie of the year (his teammate at the time, karlssonadam just edged him out). He joins Aaro who comes over from EXEN and had a 55-point season of his own. These two were tied for the fourth-most points in the league last season, so that gives you an idea of how impactful these two transfers are for Mustaa Kultaa. Naurijamal also feels like an under-the-radar addition, as he comes off of a 93-point and 54-assist season with TIKI TALK in the Pro Division last season, both which led the league last season. Considering that Allupekkaz has long been the team's starting RW, I'm interested to see how they rotate three really talented forwards and if one of them could possibly move back to defense, as their roster only has one defenseman officially listed on the roster in Miseee, who comes over from Gotham Knights.

The jump to Elite is a tough one. It's a game of sink or swim and we've seen cases of both over the last few seasons. Even last season we saw teams like Gotham Knights and Renascor struggle to make the jump and finish in the Bottom 4 of the division, while other teams such as Björkloven Esport and Purification adapted rather quickly and finished Top 10 in the standings. I personally feel like this team is capable of doing the latter. I think that competing towards a playoff spot is a very reasonable expectation for this team considering the moves that they made in the offseason. They've climbed the ECL ladder about as quickly as any team could do so, and now they'll get the chance to match up against some of the best groups that Europe has to offer.  

 Mythix (formerly Bjorkloven Esport)

Last Season: Finished 6th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Tunnel Vision in 5 games

Returning Players: 

FWD - Oskar @x-_-BoBi-_-x Hautala

FWD - Valtteri @Valee__ Jakola

FWD - Miikka @koleslaav_ Kolehmainen

DEF - Miika @zMikkeez Kauppila

DEF - Veeti @WeDuX_ Misikangas

DEF - Arttu @Thewix93 Harju

G - Jussi @Ricco Laakso

Roster Additions:

G - Jani @TeikDaun Honkasaar (joins from Heimo)

Roster Subtractions:

G - Dennis @Kallmanius Källman (transferred to Bjorkloven Esport - Pro Division)

Formerly under the Bjorkloven Esport brand, his group had quite the debut to Elite last season, earning a playoff spot and putting the Elite division on notice in their first season there. Unfortunately for them, they fell short to the eventual champions, but the Spring campaign was nothing short of a success for now-rebranded Mythix. Now the expectations are present for this team, and there’s the feeling that they could ascend into the Top 4 if all goes right this season. 

They return a majority of the roster, only making one swap in adding TeikDaun to take the place of Kallmanus, who made just two starts for the team in net last season. Considering how good this team was in their own end last season, giving up just 2 goals per game and having a penalty kill of 86.67% ( both ranked at third-best in Elite), I'm sure that they won't complain about maintaining the majority of a roster that was one of the best defensive teams in the division. Koleslaav and Bobbi also proved to be a dynamic duo at the forward spot, with each of them at least having double the amount of points of any of their teammates. I'm sure that Mythix will want 

This is a team that is hungry and still has a lot to prove, but a playoff appearance should be the minimum expectation in my opinion. They’ve already proven that they can get there and now it’s time for them to build up from that. Was last season just a glimpse of what they’re capable of? We’ll find out soon.

 Parasite (formerly Valokuitunen Esports)

Last Season: Finished 1st in Regular Season standings, lost in Finals vs Tunnel Vision in 4 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Perttu @Beniittto Kemppainen

FWD - Niklas @NikkeDangles Tukiainen

DEF - Teemu @Teemuyy Polttila

G - Sebastian @FINSeRe Remes

Roster Additions:

FWD - Valtteri @Vattuyy Virtanen (joins from Tunnel Vision)

DEF - Tomi @tomboo-_- Laitinen (joins from Tunnel Vision)

G - Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen (joins from Voittamaton *didn't play any games last season*)

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Vili @Vilupoika Häkkinen

DEF - Aaro @xDoumi Ruuhinen (transferred to EXEN)

After being swept in the Finals by Tunnel Vision this past season, Parasite come into ECL '25: Winter under a new name and with a much different look after making some key additions.

Long-time staples in Vilupoika and Doumi are out, while rivals turned teammates are now in, as they add three former Tunnel Vision stars in Vattuyy, UhNikke, and the team’s former captain Tomboo. It almost feels similar to what we saw a few years ago when HAVU and Frolunda HC had their cores merge, only I think you could argue that this group is even stronger than that one was (not by a wide margin to be clear, that team had insane talent as well). You could maybe wonder how these different play styles will mesh together, as Tunnel Vision and hREDS/Valokuitunen played very different play styles, but the best players and teams find ways to make it work and this group fits that billing to a tee.

I wish that I had a deeper analysis to give about this group, but it's honestly all quite simple. This is a collection of some of the best talent in the world and their most likely starting lineup makes up for each of the last 7 Elite Division championships. It doesn't get much simpler or more truthful than that. Everyone is plenty familiar with what this team is capable of and they will without a doubt be a title favorite again. Similarly to what we said with EXEN earlier, anything less than at least a Semifinals appearance would feel like a disappointment. 

 Polski Boys

Last Season: Finished 12th in Regular Season standings

Returning Players:

FWD - Aleksi @Brockela22 Pokela

FWD - Sasu @xSaski_ Korkeamäki

DEF - Lauri @vote_10 Voittomäki

DEF - Santeri @kungenkirwa Syrjämäki

G - Kirill @W1nchester_62 Syuzyumov

G - Tomi @Tope0090 Heikkilä

Roster Additions:

FWD - V-V @cTunkeilija Lampela (joins from EXEN)

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Joona @jm98II Muona

A team that had a quick rise in ECL '23, Polski Boys are still looking for their breakthrough moment in the Elite Division, finishing in no man’s land in each of their foes two seasons here. 

They kept most of the core from last season in fact, only making one move in adding cTunekelija who comes over from EXEN. He’ll take the place of jm who had been a staple in this lineup during the team’s ascent. Though JM is a quality player in his own right, Tunekelija has been a proven commodity as a point-producer, hitting 40+ points in each of his past three Elite seasons. For a team that finished Bottom 5 in the division in goals for per game during their first two Elite seasons, including the second-lowest goals for per game last season (2.07), this will be a helpful addition.

This is a team that many believe is on the cusp of that breakout year, and I've been in that same boat for a while now. Is the third time the charm for Polski Boys? A playoff appearance would suggest yes, but they’ll need to finally take that much-needed stride offensively to get there.

 Renascor

Last Season: Finished 15th in Regular Season standings, won Elite relegation series vs Falun Coal Miners in 7 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Evgeny @Virusact1ve Popov

DEF - Sergei @NyambI4 Filippov

DEF - Igor @Motov Motov

Roster Additions:

FWD - André @Foppatofflan Liljegren (joins from The Black Jacks + Northern Ascendancy)

FWD - Connor @MartindalexC Martindale (joins from Falun Coal Miners + Northern Ascendancy)

G - @jg697000 (joins from Supernatural - Pro Division)

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Maksim @maximkrinitsyn88 Krinitsyn 

FWD - Erik @riegel29 Riegel

G - @Hullued (transferred to HC Pustertal eSports - Lite Division)
 

Making some of the most roster moves of any team in the Division, Renascor is back for its second Elite Division campaign. Now they look to progress after what was a tough season for the group last season, finishing in 15th and having to win a Game 7 in a relegation series vs Falun Coal Miners to maintain their place in Elite.

The majority of changes that this team made were at the forward spot, as they brought in a pair of linemates with ample Elite experience in Foppatofflan and Martindale. Though these two are experienced, they were just brought into the team last week, so we'll have to see how quickly these two can gel with the rest of Renascor's lineup and how quickly it will take for the group to adjust to one another. They also added a rookie goaltender in Gresu__, who was stellar in the Pro Division last season with Supernatural, posting an 86 sv% in 14 games. 

The key to Renascor improving this season will be finding its offensive stride. This team had the lowest goals for per game of any team in the Elite Division last season at 1.67. They also had the fourth-lowest shots per game in the division at 12.1. Will the veteran additions help? Or will they still not have enough firepower to match up with the division's playoff contenders? I think they've taken a step in the right direction, but we won't be able to know until we see it for ourselves.

 Roots Gaming

Last Season: Finished 10th in Regular Season standings

Returning Players:

FWD - Santeri @xleksa35 Levänen

FWD - Linus @Limu95 Christiansson

FWD -  Eemil @Sokkelo__ Soikkeli

FWD - Samuli @ssampee37 Mäntylä

DEF - Niko @vVoDee Vottonen

DEF - Joonas @LE1PAKONE Nordman

G - Joona @xJontteZ Moilanen

Roster Additions:

NONE

Roster Subtractions:

NONE

One of two teams to make zero changes to its roster, Roots Gaming is looking to make it back to the playoffs after just falling short in the Spring '23 season. Despite falling short of the Top 8 however, last season had to be considered a success for Roots, as they made an 18-point improvement in the standings and went from finishing 15th in the Winter season to 10th in the Spring (technically they tied for 9th with Purification, but lost the tiebreaker). 

This team probably has to most chemistry of anyone in the league, as this is also the same exact roster from that Winter 24 season that we had mentioned earlier. You can argue that this could be a good thing or a bad thing. Two seasons together as a unit is invaluable, and could arguably be this team's biggest strength. They also have one of the league's more underrated goalies in xJonttezz, who comes off a season where he posted an 82.75 SV% (he was also above an 80 SV% during the Winter season with this team). However on the flip side of that argument, this team has been stuck in the middle or worse for a while now, and considering that they made zero changes to the roster, there isn't much evidence that suggests that this Roots team will all of a sudden become more than what they've already shown that they are.

If they are going to do so, they will need to find their offense a bit more in this game cycle, as they averaged just 1.47 (Winter) and 2.07 (Spring) goals per game in NHL 24. They will also need to find a way to punch a bit higher to compete with some of the league's top groups, as last season they had a record of just 3-13 against playoff teams, with 11 of those losses coming in regulation. I don't mean to be harsh with Roots, they're a capable group, but after a while, you are what your performances say you are, and when nothing has changed from the past two seasons it's hard to give any reason to believe that this group will suddenly ascend into that next tier of Elite Division teams unless their game has elevated over the past few months, which though possible, is not something that can be safely predicted.

 The Black Jacks

Last Season: Finished 8th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Valokuitunen Esports in 7 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Kevin @Keuschemisch Berg

FWD -  Chris @GERxVillain Ungeheuer

FWD - Tim @Timasy Hess

DEF - Max @Toneee9 Tonitz

DEF - Antti @Anhel_Kuru Kuru

Roster Additions:

DEF - Niklas @xXPsykoSkillsXx Schmitz (joins from Deadly Phantoms - Pro Division)

G - Santeri @kkostiiii Kostiainen (joins from Vesa Pompa)

G - Sandro @I-THE_EAGLE-I Wüller

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - André @Foppatofflan Liljegren (transferred to Renascor)

G - Johan @McSavid Rundqvist (transferred to Falun Coal Miners)

G - Simeon @Simbanho Vorselman (transferred to Blackbirds - Pro Division *will return to TBJ next season*)

After nearly pulling off one of the biggest upsets in Elite history in last season’s Quarterfinals, TBJ is back and hoping to take that long-awaited next step forward. It feels like this group has been stuck in the middle for a while, consistently finishing in the 8-12 range in the standings. With experience aplenty and higher ambitions, this will need to change this season.

Their biggest change will be at what was arguably their biggest strength last season, goaltending, as Kkosti comes in to replace to goaltending duo of McSavid and Simbahno. Kkosti joined the team over the summer, so you can expect him to be ready to go for his new team. While McSavid has moved on to Falun Coal Miners, it has been said that Simbanho will rejoin the team next season but will be playing in the Pro Division with Blackbirds for this season (so essentially he's on loan). They also replace Fopptofflan who was a steady presence at center for them, as GERxVillan will move from defense to Center spot to fill his absence. 

I’m not sure if we’ve seen this group hit their peak yet, but this season will go a long way toward finding out. The key will be having a strong regular season that shows that they can win consistently. Slow starts to seasons are something that has held this team back a bit in past years. That issue will need to be remedied if they want to continue progressing.

 TIKI TALK

Last Season: Competed in Pro Division, lost in Quarterfinals vs Mustaa Kultaa in 7 games

Returning Players:

FWD - @itspardytime

FWD - Teemu @Teme Sainio 

FWD - Kari @VaLLe- Valle (transferred midseason to TIKI TALK last season, was on roster so counted as a returning player)

G - Kevin @I-Bysse-I Byström

Roster Additions:

DEF - @Saviinainen (joins from Zenegeim  - Lite Division)

DEF - @Pensasmies (joins from BushWackers - Lite Division)

G - @I-Nisse-I

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - J-J @NuariJamal Raatikainen (transferred to Mustaa Kultaa)

DEF - Aleksi @xSnaipperi Honka (transferred to Heimo)

DEF - Timo @Velttola Hokkanen

G - @SemiSeco

A few days ago, TIKI TALK thought it had fumbled away its chance at the Elite Division, losing a 3-1 series lead and falling to Falun Coal Miners in Game 7 in the qualifier. It looked like the group would be back in the Pro Division for another season. Then, everything changed, as Almost Famous, last season's Pro Division champions, disbanded, leaving one more spot to be filled in the Elite Division. TIKI TALK was given a second chance, and they took advantage of it, defeating RYHTIC in six games to punch their ticket back into Elite for the first time since ECL 9. An awesome story for one of the ECL's original teams (TIKI TALK is one of the few active team brands that played in ECL 1).

Though TIKI TALK lost its leading point producer and Pro Division points leader from last season in nuarijamal, they do bring back two high-quality forwards in ItsPardyTime and TeMeX. These two have an undeniable chemistry that goes all the way back to ECL 1, so if they can adjust to the Elite game again, they could be an impactful duo this season. Slotting with them at forward will be VaLLe-9, a relatively unknown rookie who has just 8 games of ECL experience from his time with Valco in the Pro Division in ECL Winter 24 before transferring to TIKI TALK midseason. He put up 13 points in 14 games during the Elite Qualifier playoffs last week. Both defensemen will also be transfers, as they added Pensamies, who will be playing in his first Elite season and is making the considerable jump from the Lite division, and Saviinainen, who played with TIKI TALK in its last Elite season in ECL 9 and has been a consistently reliable defenseman at the Pro and Lite ranks. I-Bysse-I comes back with TIKI TALK to command the pipes after he was arguably the best goalie in the Pro Division last season, posting an 87.41 SV% in 22 regular season starts and an 86.55 SV% in 14 playoff stats. He'll be a rookie in Elite this season, but look out for him to potentially steal this team a few games.

It's hard to say where this team could end up because a few days ago they weren't even going to be in the Elite Division. I feel like many will place them in the relegation zone because of that, and it's honestly understandable, but TIKI TALK has a roster mixed with experience and youth, and they have a few impact players that could very well take over a game here and there. I'm not saying they're a playoff team, I'm not even going to say that they'll be safe from playing a relegation series in March, but what I will say is to not just write them off because of the way that they got here. This is a team that is capable of winning games and we've seen some crazy things happen before in this Division. Could TIKI TALK add to that list of craziness? We'll see.

  Tohtorit

Last Season: Finished 4th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs EXEN in 4 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Jere @profiilipakki Kangasniemi

FWD - Jere @Harlowi- Paloranta

FWD - Tuomas @Ojala16 Ojala

FWD - Mikko @Ristimaki12 Ristimäki

DEF - Verne @seegasormi Maijanen

DEF - Timi @Kkarkass Kärkäs

DEF - Tomi @tominointi Mäkelä

G - Stan @Stammer70 Adamus

Roster Additions:

NONE

Roster Subtractions:

NONE

This team shouldn’t catch anyone by surprise anymore. Tohtorit is here and they are a serious playoff team. They return their entire roster from last season’s campaign and they were a serious threat to finish top of the league for some time before falling off a bit late in the season and having to settle for a 4-seed, which is still impressive. This led to a tough Quarterfinal matchup with EXEN and an early playoff exit.

I'm especially interested to see how this forward group does this season, as the trio of Harlowi, Ojala16, and profillipakki were stellar for this team last season, with each of them ranking Top 10 in the Division in either points or goals. Stammer70 has also proven to be a wall in net for this team, posting back-to-back seasons with a save percentage of 82% or higher.

Being one of the teams to return its entire roster could be a benefit, but we’ll have to see if their performance last season is what this team truly is, as well as if their playstyle will mesh with the new game. They aren't going to catch anyone by surprise anymore, so we will have to see whether or not the Spring campaign was this group's peak or if they can take another step forward together.

 Unwanted

Last Season: Finished in 7th in Regular Season standings, lost in Quarterfinals vs Straikers in 7 games

Returning Players:

FWD - Steffen @Suth98_ Sutherland

FWD - Anton @Henka0009 Henriksson

DEF - Alex @Snus97_ Arvidsson

G - Adam @karlssonadam_ Karlsson

Roster Additions:

FWD - Max @LaxenHD Söderström (joins from Purification)

DEF - Elvis @bystrom___ Byström (joins from Purification)

G - @Sundstroom (joins from Gotham Knights)

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Eetu @Launonexx Launonen (transferred to Mustaa Kultaa)

FWD - Leevi @xLeikku Kauppila

FWD - Hannes @Johansson__224 Johansson

DEF -  Samu @keisari Ahonen

After falling one game short of a semifinal appearance last season, Unwanted is back and with a new look roster. At one point, this team looked like it could’ve been taking a break, but they eventfully merged with Purification and look to remain a fixture in the Elite division.

With a good mix of experience and youth, this season feels like the opportunity for ascension for this team. There will be some questions to answer with the merger, but Purification was one of the division’s up-and-coming teams before stepping away, so there shouldn’t be much of a drop-off. This provided them with a pair of quality additions in Laxen and Bystrom who will hope to take a step forward with their new team this season. Unwanted also returns last season's Rookie of the Season in karlssonadam, who was also a Goalie of the Season candidate after posting an 85.37 SV% in 26 regular season starts during the Spring.

The challenge for this team will be improving in the regular season, as Unwanted found themselves 7th in the league in both ECL 24 seasons. This could help their chances at a deeper playoff run if they could avoid playing one of the league’s Top 3 teams (or better yet, be one of the league’s Top 3 teams). I think that we will have to wait and see how the new additions work out for this group and what their lineup ends up looking like, as Launonexx and pkeisari are not light losses to the roster, but overall this still looks like a team that should be in the playoffs again. The question now is whether or not they can elevate into that top tier of teams in the Elite division.

 Vesa Pompa

Last Season: Finished 11th in Regular Season standings
 

Returning Players:

FWD - Henrik @Eken45jr Eklund

FWD - Anton @antoniomannen004 Svensander

FWD - Anton @AntonLxnd Lund

DEF - Oliver @pappeen- Papmehl

Roster Additions:

DEF - Sebastian @SebbeLarsen86 Larsen

DEF - @iSvamp (joins from The Worn Out Wisemen - Neo Division)

G - Sebastian @Sebastian Lahdo Låhdö (joins from Schrute Farmerz - Lite Division)

Roster Subtractions:

FWD - Adam @dzouvi Mensik

G - Santeri @kkostiiii Kostiainen (transferred to The Black Jacks)
 

Can this team get back into contenders status? That is the question that surrounds a Vesa Pompa team that missed the playoffs last season at 11th. It was a disappointing drop-off for this group after making it all the way to the Semifinals in the Winter season prior and now we'll need to see if they can get back to that place of contention.

They lost a pair of key pieces in Dzouvi and Kkostti, but did add one of the league's most reliable defensemen in SebbeLarsen, who will give the team a boost on the back end. Another key addition will be SeboLHD, a rookie goaltender who will look to add to the list of high-end netminders in the Elite division. Keep in mind that last season’s rookie of the year was a goalie, so we’ve seen players in their first season make a significant impact at this position before. Antoniomannen (51pts) and AntonLxnd (40pts) were this team's two leading point producers, so the bulk of this team's scoring production will at least return this season. Eken will also move back up to forward after spending last season at defense; lining up as the Center between Antonio and Anton. 

Consistency will be key for Vesa Pompa this season. They have a playoff-caliber roster, but they’ll need to put together games in order to accrue points to make the Top 8, something that they struggled to do in the Spring.

 Voittamaton (formerly Straikers)

Last Season: Finished 2nd in Regular Season standings, lost in Semifinals vs Tunnel Vision in 7 games
 

Returning Players:

FWD - Joonas @Patzlaf Paatiala

FWD - Erik @Eki Tammenpää

FWD - Teemu @temppanen Karvonen

DEF - Tuukka @FlyerKungen Kuha

G - Hannes @Hansulinho Kettunen

G - Oskari @Zande95 Grönroos

Roster Additions:

FWD - Paul @PleeMaker Arontie

DEF - Jimi @J-_-Jamaltheman Rönkkönen

Roster Subtractions:

DEF - Kristian-Mikael @Nassustelija Katajisto

G - Niklas @uhNikke Nieminen (transferred to Parasite - didn't play in any games last season)
 

Another team that fell victim to Tunnel Vision last season, Voittamaton are still looking to get back to the top of ECL. They’ve come close many times, making it to the Semifinals and Finals on multiple occasions in the last few years, but it’s been since ECL 11 that this group has hoisted the trophy. 

Most of this team remains unchanged in terms of its core group. They added in Jamaltheman who will provide some offense from the backend after being a high-quality forward with JYP Jyvaskyla in the past season (he went down to Lite last season). He replaces Nassustelija who had been with this team since HAVU Gaming merged with Frolunda HC, so it'll be interesting to see how that one change alters this team's look. They also did lose UhNikke to Parasite, though he didn't suit up for the team last season and Hansulinho is still one of the best goalies in the world, so nothing lost, nothing gained. This team will also appreciate having its long-time captain in Patzlaf back after being away from the team for most of last season. He's undoubtedly one of the best centers in Europe, and though this team looked good in his absence, no one will ever complain about having one of the best two-way players in the ECL back in their lineup. Combine him with other proven top players in Eki and Temppanen and it's a pretty safe bet that they'll be a top offense once again this season. I also find it interesting to see Pleemaker on the roster this season. He hasn't played since the ECL 22 Spring season, but he led the league in points (69), goals (33), and assists (36) that season and he has undeniable chemistry with Patzlaf and Eki. Two years is a long time away from the competitive atmosphere and the ECL and the game as a whole have changed drastically since he last played, but if he is going to come back this season, it'll be a fun story to watch develop for this group that has so much history together. For now, we'll just wait and see what happens there. 

This team is again a championship contender, but it feels like this year has to be the year before wholesale changes could be considered for the roster (pure speculation to be clear). Does this core have another championship in them? Or have we seen them at their peak? We know where their ambitions are set, now they have to execute in seeing them out.

Tune in to the Season Opening Broadcast Tonight!

Tune in to the ECL '25: Winter - Elite season opener tonight at twitch.tv/SportsGamerGG! The broadcast starts exceptionally early at 18:45 CET as the first Episode of the SportsGamer Wraparound with Cody @Tougie24 Tougas will introduce us to the new season! 

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.

Social media
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

ECL '25: Winter Elite Finals date:

• ECL Elite LAN Finals @ Assembly Winter 2025 on Thursday 20.2.2025

Good luck to all the teams as they hit the virtual ice. Have fun and let the games begin!

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.

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

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.

Mights

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

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.

Social media
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!

Hello, eHockey fans and players! It's finally the moment we've been waiting for: The start of the ECL '25 Winter regular season! In this article, let's take a look at 12 interesting teams and/or biggest favorites to win it all. Who are potential candidates to fight for an ECL Pro promotion this season? And of course, let's pick some of the players to watch closer from every group in the middle division of our five tiers of the European Championship League, ECL Lite.

Group 1

Puck Over Glass

Last season this team couldn't make their way into the Lite playoffs. Now it looks like they have something good brewing because they won the ECL '25: Pre-Season - Lite & Core tournament with an explosive performance! First, they topped their group with a solid 12-0-0-2 record but after that, they swept themselves all the way to victory winning every series 2-0, two of their players being top two in playoff points. That's already a very impressive progression compared to last season! Surely they are full of confidence because of this so it definitely would not be a shock to see these guys make a deep playoff run this season!

Player to watch: Hydeee_24

MoDo Hockey

After not getting into Pro through the Qualifier even though they came close, a lot depends on how they recover from that disappointment. They are still capable of achieving a good result in Lite like they did last season by going to the top 8 and being one win away from the semifinals. They have an organized and fairly physical playbook, in the Pro Qualifier, they recorded the most hits by far compared to others.

Player to watch: MrXbox79

DEG eSports

There is always an extra factor of interest towards teams affiliated with traditional ice hockey clubs. However, this team has also proven that they can play organized and well-structured team play. They had a nice playoff run last season in Lite going into the quarterfinals and losing there against the team that went to the finals. After that they got knocked out from the ECL Pro Qualifier in Stage 1 only with a small margin, since if their one overtime loss had turned into a win it would've been enough to make it into Stage 2. Being that close surely only gives them more hunger to achieve a Pro spot for the Spring season!

Player to watch: MEAZZA1704

Group 2

Project X

It has been a few seasons since we last saw this team, back in ECL '23: Spring - Pro. Now they are back led by their captain, one of the most recognizable names in ECL Lite this season - 2023 IIHF eWorld Champion JesseL2002. But there are actually a few players who represented Project X's previous roster. One of them is Torvelajr__  who has a very realistic chance to be one of the top if not the best goalies of this division. This team definitely has experience, individual skills, and probably also some kind of reunion spirit. If they get a smooth and consistent flow going through the season, they surely have a great chance for the championship.

Player to watch: JesseL2002

KohKae Esports

KohKae earned a straight promotion to Lite by being champions of ECL '24: Spring - Core. It's always fascinating to follow champion teams and see if they can continue the success from the lower division when moving up a tier. Obviously, it's hard to think of a better foundation for a new season than winning the previous one - especially when the team's roster has stayed almost identical. khassu--  - who had a clutch performance in their championship run being #1 in playoffs of both GAA (1.19) and save% (90.31) - stays as their starting goalie. Can he keep up that form? KohKae's defensive pair stays the same: Eashl_kalle and LihaPoni90, who both were top-scoring defensemen of the Core playoffs last season.

Player to watch: khassu--

HC Pustertal eSports

HC Pustertal, consisting mostly of Finnish players, represents the Italian hockey club as their official eSports squad. Hullued - who was an Elite goalie in Renascor last season, including one playoff series played - seems to play center now, but this isn't new business for him. Hullued has played roughly 50% of his career as a skater and 50% as a goalie in many different tiers and leagues and he seems to be like a Swiss army knife; any position and performance is solid. Pustertal's current goalie Kibk_RuZaKuZa had a great last season in Lite with Mights so it will be interesting to see if we will see the same kind of work between the pipes again. The also versatile Ollizhki27   is the definition of an experienced player. He has played ECL ever since ECL Season 1 in 2015, including ECL Pro and also different national leagues.

Player to watch: Hullued

Eisbaeren Lauf Gaming

This club from Germany made its ECL debut already in ECL 12 and has been playing in different divisions since then. Most recently they played a few seasons in Pro and even though they never managed to make their way into playoffs there, I believe that experience playing against tough Pro opponents will be very useful in Lite. wobfighter saved 87.27% of the shots he faced in the Pro Qualifiers, which sounds decent considering they lost half of their games. I see him as a potential candidate for the top goalie of the Lite season. Eisbaren's expected top point scorer is none other than KenuFHR, who is a dangerous and sneaky forward if the opponent leaves him unguarded. My minimum prediction would be to see this team in the top 16.

Player to watch: KenuFHR

Group 3

Hopfensmoothie HC

Hopfensmoothie HC is a Swiss team with some players who have Elite and Pro experience, such as originaL-SnuS from the top Central European team The Black Jacks / ZSC Lions. This is actually the former team for many other players on this HHC roster. Just like SnuS was for TBJ, he is also the captain of this HHC team and has been the leader on ice by being their top scorer both in the regular season and the playoffs last season in ECL Lite. I_Alex28_I was also one of their key players in the playoffs by scoring 12 points in 15 games played. He also made an impressive 44 points in 12 games played recently in the Lite & Core Pre-Season, where Hopfensmoothie showed that their members are still in strong form by finishing #1in their group with a 9-3-1-1 record. Hopfensmoothie made their way to the Lite quarterfinals last season and thus were entitled to take part in the Pro qualifier and surely could've been able to make a good result there. The team, however, decided to stay in Lite. They are definitely one of the teams capable of winning the championship this season.

Player to watch: originaL-SnuS

Sunne IK Esport

Sunne IK is another team that missed the Lite playoffs last season but seems to have been leveling up their game exponentially. Their record was a very solid 11-1-1-1 in the Pre-Season, where they were also the top-scoring team with 96 goals, which is not a surprising number when looking at regular season and playoffs top scorers that are both full of Sunne guys. The big question is: Is Sunne able to keep that firepower since two of those top scorers apparently are not playing for this team anymore? After that in playoffs, they continued their good form, losing only three games, out of which two in the BO3 finals against Puck Over Glass. Comparing their current roster to last season's roster, it seems like they have kept their team core pretty patiently but they also made some moves like the signing of benjamint737  who should be a great goalie for Lite level with his Elite and Pro experience.

Player to watch: benjamint737

  Setelikerho

Team with loads of Pro and even some Elite experience, so definitely any team playing against them should expect an opponent who is not shaking in tight situations and has trust in their team play because they are familiar with each other. In fact Jugi9, Tanski87, armoton-kaulin, Kozeec, and Jesse6115 all played previously in Supernatural so I guess this is kind of a rebranded team from that.

Player to watch: Kozeec

Group 4

Kikkakirja

Kikkakirja went through the Pre-Season regular season with an 11-0-1-2 record and after that ran into the semifinals. Their game style actually seems to live up to their name (translation Deke Book/Trick Book) but still not at the cost of defending since only two teams had fewer goals against them compared to Kikkakirja's 28 goals allowed. Their RD Kahvinpapu already has some ECL Pro experience and has been doing a good job as an offensive d-men. Their captain PyroNiko__ also played Pro last season with N0VA, even though he didn't play many games he was efficient in those with over 2 PPG.

Player to watch: PyroNiko__
 

Technical Disaster

TED is already starting the 6th ECL season together. Solid Lite team season after season, this time they were also close to making it into Pro through the qualifiers but fell short in the last round. They still have familiar faces from their previous rosters, like key players Kaapo13 and wrlster who have both always been creating good results in Lite individually. It wouldn't be a surprise if Technical Disaster could reach the top of this division sooner or later.

Player to watch: Kaapo13

VBO STARS

Swedish team VBO STARS got a taste of gold medals a few months ago when they won the championship of SEC 16. While it was not the same exact roster as now, this team might actually be the team with most former Elite players this season in Lite; I-Bror-I, eBasstian, and Kattenj all played in the highest tier not too long ago, but none in the latest season, so will be interesting to see how their experience will carry on for this season in ECL Lite.

Player to watch: I-Bror-I

SSK Prospects

Another Swedish team! One of the three ECL teams of Södertälje SK. Despite their name "Prospects", this team is not just a group of young guns. There are also many experienced players on this team - in fact, I would say players a little bit over the average age of ECL players. This mixed with some of their younger players could have a lot of potential if they find chemistry! Players like Viktorhall and HambergD who have many seasons played in Pro and sveti- could be great leaders in the group even in Elite, as well as experienced r4mme-0 who played Pre-Season for the dominant #1 seed team before signing with SSK.

Player to watch: Viktorhall

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.

Social media
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:
17.11-19.12.2024

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 Lite Finals 4.-5.2.2025

Good luck to all the teams as they hit the virtual ice. Have fun and let the games begin!

Players mentioned in this article:

@Hydeee_24@MrXbox79@Meazza1704@JesseL2002@Torvelajr__@khassu--@Eashl_kalle@LihaPoni90@Hullued@Kibk_RuZaKuZa@Ollizhki@wobfighter@Kenu@benjamint737@Kozeec@Jugi9@Tanski87@armoton-kaulin@Kahvinpapu@PyroNiko@Kaapo13@wrlster@Kattenj@eBasstian@svetidaje@Viktorhall@HambergD@r4mme@Original-SnuS@I_Alex28_I

The new ECL '25: Winter - Neo season is here, with the action set to begin today Sunday, November 17th. We’d like to extend a warm welcome to all the new players and teams joining the league, as well as those returning from previous seasons. 

With five weeks of regular-season play ahead, the competition is about to kick off as teams battle for a spot at the top of the standings. Which team has perfected the Golden One-T? Who will dominate with bone-crushing hits? Which players will rise above the rest as the future stars of ECL? These questions—and many more—will be answered as the season unfolds.

Group 1
Davemiehet made a strong run to the semifinals in ECL '24: Spring but after losing some key talent didn't manage to keep their level and take the step up the ladder. However, they are expected to have another strong season and will certainly be a team to watch. Meanwhile, CzechoSvizzera Ravens performed well in the pre-season tournament, reaching the semifinals. If they can maintain that momentum, they could be an interesting team to follow this season.

Group 2
Lassen Lampaat is one of the more experienced teams in the league. Founded in 2019, the team reached the semifinals in the pre-season and is now looking to make a return to the higher divisions. Viitapohja Vikings, who played in the higher divisions last year, have recruited some completely new ECL players who are committed to playing the majority of the season. Either way, they are also expected to be a strong contender this year.

Group 3
Taifun Veterans dominated their group in the ECL' 24: Spring season but fell short in the first round of playoffs as the top seed. Whether they can carry over their strong regular season form and convert it into success in the playoffs will be seen. This group also features a rematch from the pre-season tournament, as Red Bull Munich Academy faces Uotilan Pallo. Both teams made it to the quarterfinals with impressive offensive performances, making this match-up one to watch.

Group 4
Group 4 is set to feature this season's most anticipated rivalry “The Battle of Clowns”: Clowns On Ice versus Twisted Clowns, set to be played on the 1st of December. Don’t forget to keep an eye on The Flying Elbows, another team that had a strong showing in the pre-season and could make it far this season.

Group 5
Fallen Rangers dominated their way through the pre-season playoffs, losing only one match on their path to victory. If they can maintain that strong form throughout the season they will be the team to beat. Karhukissat, who managed to split a high-scoring series with them in pre-season, will be looking to get the upper hand in their upcoming rematch, making it another exciting match-up to watch.

Good luck to all the teams as they hit the virtual ice. Have fun and let the games begin!

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.

Social media
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:
17.11-19.12.2024

Estimated finals date:
Below is the estimated date for the Finals (BO5) to be approximately played. We reserve the right to changes in schedule.

• ECL Neo Finals 9.2.

SportsGamers,

The newest update to the ECL '25: Winter rulebook is now live and can be accessed through the league pages. Generally speaking, the rulebook is a revised and improved version of the rulebook used in ECL '24 Spring. Find the new rulebook here.

Here's a snapshot of some of the major adjustments / additions compared to ECL ‘25: Spring: 

• Added link to ECL Essentials: Guide to the ECL in the Preface
• 11.7.: Player ability bans have been updated
• 9.2.1: Timeouts are now allowed again
• 11.1:  Grudge Match setting is to be turned off
   

We ask every team and it's members to familiarize themselves with the rulebook before taking the ice for the ECL '25: Winter season. Please refer to the rulebook in case of any issues that may arise throughout the season. If you have any questions, please get in touch with support.

Welcome to ECL Essentials!

Here you’ll find a concise guide on how the European Championship League (ECL) operates. This includes important information on scheduling and reporting games, transfer rules, and communication best practices. Whether you’re a new team or a seasoned player, these guidelines will help ensure smooth participation in the league. Dive in and get familiar with the essentials!

Game Scheduling & Reporting Guidelines

1. Scheduling Games
   • Contacting Opponents:
     • Mandatory: Reach out to your opponents 12-24 hours before the default scheduled game time.
     • Use the SportsGamer.gg Private Message system or, if necessary, other platforms like Discord.
   • Default Schedule:
     • The default schedule is set by the league. DO NOT schedule games on top of your default opponent without prior agreement with said opponent to move the games.
   • Rescheduling:
     • After agreement, use the rescheduling tool on SportsGamer to update the schedule.
     • Only one postponement is allowed per matchup. If you need to move a matchup a second time, please contact support with an explanation and a suggested date immediately.
   • Deadline for Postponements:
     • Notify the opponent by 12:00 CET on the game day if rescheduling is required.
        
2. Reporting Games
   • Winning Team’s Responsibility:
     • Use the API Reporting Tool for normal games.
     • For disconnected games, use the manual reporting tool for accurate stats submission.
   • Submission Deadline:
     • Reports must be submitted immediately after the games due to EA’s limited game history available online (5 most recent games).
   • Accurate Stats:
     • Maintain screenshots of all stats (overview, events, and individual stats) for the entire tournament for verification.
        
3. Contacting Opponents
   • Essential Communication:
     • Do not assume opponents will show up without prior communication - always reach out well ahead of the scheduled games, at the very latest before 12 CET of the scheduled gameday
     • Always confirm the game time and servers in advance.
   • Missed Communication:
     • If opponents are unresponsive, notify League Administration (LA).
     • For advice on how to write Support, please read this article.

Transfer Rules

• Transfer Deadline:
  • The deadline for all player transfers is December 6th at the end of the day.

Licenses

• Are you still missing your license?
  • A valid license is required before stepping on the ice. Purchase your license here.
  • Need help with your license? Please contact Support.

SportsGamer Placeholder Team

• If you're wondering what the Placeholder team in the standings are at the start of the season:
  • This is a temporary extra team added to the group as a failsafe. 
  • This is not a real team and with an 80% probability will not become a real team, so if you're scheduled to play against this team, please ignore it unless told otherwise by the administration.
  • Placeholder teams are removed during the first few days of the season.

Did we miss something?

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Still need help? Please contact Support.

The window for ECL 25 Winter sign-ups is closing soon! Whether you’re aiming for the top or simply excited to join the community and enjoy the team experience, this is your last chance to join Europe’s premier NHL esports league.

With registration closing on Wednesday, November 13 at 23:59 CET, ECL '25 Winter offers divisions for every skill level—from Neo to Elite. Whether you’re a competitive player looking for intense matchups or a team player ready to share the thrill of esports hockey with friends, there’s a place for you here.

How to Register

Visit the registration page and follow the steps to sign up. Each division offers unique opportunities, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the game and the community.

To sign up, and for a more thorough information package about the league, please see the below article.

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 help? Please contact support.

It has come to our attention that teams are attempting to make transfers beyond the first stage of the qualifiers, as such we would like to issue a clarification of the rules regarding transfers during the qualifiers - to issue this we will be using rule 7.2.

“League Administration can add further clarification to existing rules if deemed necessary. If League Administration is required to process a case that is not covered by any of the existing rules, it can add new rules throughout a league/tournament to cover these scenarios. Once a decision has been made by LA, they must supply both parties involved in the case with an explanation showing how they came to their decision, as well what rules were invoked.”

Ultimately, the reason why the regular season (and by extension the playoffs) have a transfer deadline is to stop teams progressing to the playoffs, then cannibalising another team to load up and bolster their chances of going on an extended playoff run. It’s unfair to other teams that finalised their roster well in advance, and so we have had a transfer deadline for as long as tournaments have been run here.

Qualifiers are relatively new and as a quirk of them being categorised as part of the season (and regular season at that), they haven’t had a clearly communicated transfer deadline – until now. Going forward, teams will only be able to make player acquisitions in stage 1 of the qualifiers (with the usual transfer restrictions remaining in place), meaning that a team may bring players in early-on to boost their chances, but once they progress to the next stage – whether that be a secondary group stage (see: Pro Qualifiers going on at the moment), or an outright playoff style series (see: Elite qualifiers) – they will no longer be able to add players.

This clarification maintains the competitive integrity of the qualifiers and we believe that the vast majority of teams have been sticking to it unofficially, we just wanted to codify it and make sure that the structure of the qualifiers cannot be gamed or abused in this way.

SportsGamers,

It's time to kick off the ECL '25: Winter - Elite & Pro Qualifiers and in this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the structure and schedules for the qualifiers of these two highest levels of play in the European Championship League.
 

ECL Elite Qualifier:

The ECL Elite Qualifier consists of six (6) teams competing for two (2) open ECL Elite spots. The six teams meet in a group stage where every team plays each other twice - meaning each team will play 10 games. The TOP 4 teams go into a final round where #1 of the group stage plays #4 and #2 plays #3. The winners of these two matchups will win the promotion to Elite. The losers of the final round, along with the bottom two teams of the group stage will play in ECL Pro for the ECL '25: Winter season.
 

ECL Elite Qualifier Schedule

• Group Stage: 30.10-6.11.2024
• Finals (BO7): 7.-10.11.2024
  • #1 vs #4 & #2 vs #3

Click here to find the standings and schedule

The following teams were eligible to register to the Elite Qualifiers:

Quote

Elite Qualifiers
1	▼ Elite 13	GOONS
2	▼ Elite 16	Declined
3	▶ Pro 🥈	Falun Coal Miners
4	▶ Pro 3	RYHTIC
5	Pro 5	TIKI TALK
6	Pro 6	Deadly Phantoms
7	Pro 7	Declined
8	Pro 8	Golden Sticks

ECL Pro Qualifier:

Stage 1: Four promotions
The ECL Pro Qualifier consists of nineteen (19) teams competing for twelve (12) open ECL Pro spots. The group stage consists of four (4) groups of four (4) or five (5) teams where every team plays each other twice - meaning each team will play eight (8) or ten (10) games. The winner of the group stage in each group is directly promoted to ECL Pro. Teams finishing in positions 2-4 will move into Stage 2. Teams finishing 5th in their group will play in ECL Lite for the ECL '25: Winter season.

Stage 2: Four promotions

Groups 1 and 2 will merge into one group (A), and Groups 3 and 4 will merge into a second group (B). The points earned among the teams who already met in Stage 1 will be added to the standings and the teams will only play the three (3) teams they haven't met before.

Once the games have been played and the standings have been tallied up, the top two (2) teams of both groups A & B will be promoted to ECL Pro. The remaining eight (8) teams will move on to Stage 3.

Stage 3: Four promotions

The remaining eight (8) teams will be seeded based on their performance and meet in one final best-of-7 matchup and the winner of each matchup will be promoted to ECL Pro.

• #9 vs #16
• #10 vs #15
• #11 vs #14
• #12 vs #13

The losers of the final round will play in ECL Lite for the ECL '25: Winter season.

ECL Pro Qualifier Schedule

• Pro Qualifiers | Stage 1: 30.10-5.11.2024
• Pro Qualifiers | Stage 2: 6.-10.11.2024
• Pro Final Round (BO7): 11.-14.11.2024

Click here to find the standings and schedule

The following teams have secured their place in the ECL Pro Qualifiers:

Quote

1	Pro 23	Ghost
2	Pro 24	Serpentes
3	Pro 25	HC Lugano eSports
4	Pro 27	Devilz
5	Lite 4	Mights
6	Lite 6	MoDo Hockey
7	Lite 7	DEG eSports
8	Lite 9	The Oldtimers
9	Lite 10	Technical Disaster
10	Lite 12	Blackbirds
11	Lite 14	Ruuti
12	Lite 16	Refuse Too Lose
13	Wildcard	DILAC
14	Wildcard	Kymmenelta Clubille
15	Wildcard	Bjorkloven Esport
16	Pro 29	Eisbaeren Lauf Gaming
17	Pro 30	AFTERLIFE
18	Lite 19	Red Bull Munich eSports
19	Lite 28	Capybaras

ECL Lite Qualifier:

The Lite Qualifiers are set to kick off later this week as well. We will have an update with all the information during Thursday.

ECL Lite Qualifier Schedule

• Lite Qualifiers: 1.-10.11.2024

We aim to have the matchups and schedule available for you soon, so games can be started as early as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to play in the qualifiers?

Yes. A player license is required (backup rules apply), but a team is not required to have a team license to enter the qualifiers.

What does "Wildcard team" mean?

A Wildcard team is a newly created team consisting of experienced community members with such experience and skill that could warrant playing at a higher level than the one the current team would otherwise be assigned to. Alternatively, a team that has strengthened significantly over the offseason can also be considered a Wildcard team.

Big Tipper is banned as an ability, what do we do if the Grudge Match feature gets activated despite both teams selecting NO?

The League Administration has decided to ban both Gold and Silver Big Tipper (both Gold and Silver) from the ECL ’25: Winter season for all divisions. However, due to a bug in NHL 25 that we hope to be patched soon, the Grudge Match feature may activate even when playing private club games and having selected to not have grudge matches appear. Due to this bug, a player may get special abilities that can boost all kinds of areas of their game. 

Teams can try to search again and see if the game starts without the grudge match, but it is our understanding that it is hard to avoid.

As we have no control over the grudge match feature at the moment, the League Administration cannot and will not handle disputes over the grudge match abilities, until the feature is patched. 

SportsGamers,

We're getting closer and closer to the beginning of the ECL '25: Winter season and in fact it's the last chance to sign up for the Elite, Pro and Lite divisions today, as well as signing up for the Elite, Pro and Lite Qualifiers. For all info about signing up, read our ECL '25: Winter - Sign-Ups info article.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Elite, Pro and Lite Qualifiers.

Please note that any list below with eligible teams is not necessarily the final list of qualifier teams.

Without further ado, here's your info.

ECL Elite Qualifier:

At the moment, it looks like there are two spots up for grabs in ECL Elite. 

ECL Elite Qualifier Schedule

• Registration ends: 28.10.2024 ⚠️
• Qualifiers: 30.10-7.11.2024

We aim to have the matchups and schedule available for you early this week, so games can be started as early as possible.

The following teams are eligible to register to the Elite Qualifiers:

Quote

Elite Qualifiers (if needed)
1	▼ Elite 13	GOONS
2	▼ Elite 16	Gotham Knights
3	▶ Pro 🥈	Falun Coal Miners
4	▶ Pro 3	RYHTIC
5	Pro 5	TIKI TALK
6	Pro 6	Deadly Phantoms
7	Pro 7	POGGERS
8	Pro 8	Golden Sticks

ECL Pro Qualifier:

The Pro Qualifiers are set to kick off later this week as well. With there being only 5 eligible Wildcard teams, there is no need to play the Wildcard Qualifier and we are actually able to kick off the Pro Qualifiers earlier than anticipated.

ECL Pro Qualifier Schedule

• Registration ends: 28.10.2024 ⚠️
• Wildcard Qualifier (if needed): 30.10-31.10.2024
• Pro Qualifiers: 30.10-10.11.2024

We aim to have the matchups and schedule available for you early this week, so games can be started as early as possible.

The following teams have secured the right to register for the Pro Qualifiers:

Quote

Pro Qualifiers
1	Pro 23	Ghost
2	Pro 24	Invasion
3	Pro 25	HC Lugano eSports
4	Pro 26	Company of Geeks
5	Pro 27	Devilz
6	Pro 28	Alliance HT
7	Lite 4	Mights
8	Lite 5	BushWhackers
9	Lite 6	MoDo Hockey
10	Lite 7	DEG eSports
11	Lite 8	Hopfensmoothie HC
12	Lite 9	The Oldtimers
13	Lite 10	Technical Disaster
14	Lite 11	Pata Hellalla
15	Lite 12	xBOTS
16	Lite 13	Seinajoki Noms
17	Lite 14	Ruuti
18	Lite 15	Schrute Farmerz
19	Lite 16	Refuse Too Lose
20	Wildcard	DILAC
21	Wildcard	Kymmenelta Klubille
22	Wildcard	Red Bull Munich Esports
23	Wildcard	Björklöven Esport
24	Wildcard	Northern Ascendancy

ECL Lite Qualifier:

The Lite  Qualifiers are set to kick off later this week as well. 

ECL Lite Qualifier Schedule

• Registration ends: 28.10.2024 ⚠️
• Lite Qualifiers: 1.-10.11.2024

We aim to have the matchups and schedule available for you early this week, so games can be started as early as possible.
 

The following teams have secured a spot to register for the Lite Qualifiers:

Quote

Lite Qualifiers
1	Core 4	ARMEIJAN KURI
2	Core 5	Prowlers
3	Core 6	CapeTown Kings
4	Core 7	Wida
5	Core 8	Silver Sword Griffins
6	Core 9	Lutunilkat
7	Core 10	NAM3LESS
8	Core 11	Koskenlaskijat
9	Core 12	HC Lugano Academy
10	Core 13	Moscow Capitals
11	Core 14	EV Duisburg
12	Core 15	Taskubilis
13	Core 16	Huskies eSports

The rest of the spots for the Lite Qualifiers will be filled through the Lite Qualifier sign-up process:

All teams without an Elite, Pro, or Lite league spot can participate in the Lite Qualifiers without restrictions. The format of the qualifiers will be decided according to the number of participants, but a maximum of 64 teams can participate in the qualifiers. Spots will be filled in the order of registration, but the teams on the list below will have priority if the number of teams is full.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to play in the qualifiers?

Yes. A player license is required (backup rules apply), but a team is not required to have a team license to enter the qualifiers.

What if all Pro Qualifier positions are not filled?

• Teams will not be promoted straight and all open spots will be filled through qualifiers (excluding automatically relegated/promoted teams). If there happens to be more open spots than anticipated (e.g. from teams disbanding which would have been invited to play in the qualifier) spots are filled as follows:
  • Pro relegated teams
  • Wildcard teams
  • Lite #17-32

Pro Qualifier Wildcard requirements to apply for a wildcard spot  in the upcoming pro qualifier

• Three former Elite starters
• Four former Pro starters
  • A starter is defined as having played 16 or more games in the ECL '24: Spring season, or 16 or more games in the ECL '24: Winter season  
  • If there are more players from the same team that were relegated out of the division Pro (in the same season) in the team applying for a wildcard, they may be counted as one player. The League Administration reserves the right to interpretations of this depending on the specific circumstances of the situation.
     

What does "Wildcard team" mean?

A Wildcard team is a newly created team consisting of experienced community members with such experience and skill that could warrant playing at a higher level than the one the current team would otherwise be assigned to. Alternatively, a team that has strengthened significantly over the offseason can also be considered a Wildcard team.
    
How many Wildcard spots are there?
There are 5 Wildcard spots up for grabs for the upcoming ECL Pro qualifier.

How have the Pro Qualifier Wildcard spots been decided?

If there are more Wildcard-eligible teams than spots are available, Wildcard qualifiers will be played. The final format is determined by the number of teams and the lineups of the registered teams.

Special rules for Wildcard teams

• To prevent teams from taking advantage, specifically recruiting players to bolster your chances in the qualifier that have no intention of remaining in the team beyond that, we have decided to enforce a soft roster lock post qualifier play.              
  • If a former Elite player wants to participate in a qualifier for a Wildcard Pro team, then they will be locked into that division at where the team ends up throughout the season
    • Transfer to a lower division is possible                            
  •  If a former Pro player wants to participate in a qualifier for a Wildcard Pro team, then they will be locked into that division at where the team ends up for 2 weeks (starting from the first game played in Pro that season)                              
    • Transfer to a lower division is possible
• Wildcard Qualifiers and Lite & Pro Qualifiers are part of the season so it is good to remember that only one transfer is allowed during the season     
• Teams with a Lite division spot can apply for Wildcard status for Pro Qualifiers without losing their spot

After further deliberation and in light of the unanimous motion to ban the Big Tipper ability, the League Administration has decided to ban both Gold and Silver Big Tipper (both Gold and Silver) from the ECL ’25: Winter season for all divisions. This change will take effect from the Pre-Season starting immediately, and will also apply to the ECL Qualifiers.

It’s been inspiring to see how the community discussion around abilities has gained momentum, with many well-reasoned perspectives and innovative ideas on the table. We’re especially intrigued by the proposals to either ban all abilities or allow each ability and/or player class only once per team. While both options could offer fresh layers to gameplay and enhance the broadcast experience, we recognize these are complex changes that shouldn’t be made hastily. Therefore, we’ll be following how the season progresses and reserve the right to revisit these discussions later.

While there will always be strong opinions and a push for fast action, we want to make sure that we give these ideas enough time for the community to think about and have conversations. Thus, we urge you to be active and weigh in with your constructive thoughts.

Player Ability Bans - ECL '25 Season Discussion

We appreciate your continued contributions to this evolving conversation.

Hey Gamers,

I'm sure many of you are aware already, but we want to make sure nobody misses the fact that tomorrow, Saturday, October 19th, is the last chance to purchase the ECL '25 licenses at the Early Bird pricing. This is the final reminder for those who have not had a chance to purchase the Early Bird Licenses yet. Grab your Early Bird ECL '25: Winter Team license and ECL '25 Player License (Winter + Spring) at special pricing until midnight. After that, regular pricing applies, so get yours now!
 

More information:

• If you're wondering "What is the ECL?", read this article.
• If you want to sign up for the ECL, read this article.
• If you're looking for information about the new ECL season and the NHL 25 competitive year, read this article.

Hey Gamers,

We are ready to drop the puck for the ECL '25 Pre-Season! As a reminder, the ECL Pre-Season Tournament is a friendly tournament with three tiers for teams to get into the competitive mindset, without the heavy structure that comes with the actual ECL divisions framework. The tournaments include playoffs for each tier and the lowest tier allows new interested teams to try out the competitive games in a relaxed environment.
 

ECL Pre-Season

Below you'll find the key information about the different levels of play.

Elite & Pro  

• Only ECL Elite & ECL Pro teams, and by special request wildcard & qualifier teams
• This is a friendly warmup tournament, no need to argue (=no League Admin cases)
• Two groups of 9 teams. 
  • Top 3 per group make it to round 2
  • #4 & #5 will play against each other in the wildcard round and the winners will make it to round 2
• Double-header gamedays
• Regular season 17.10-28.10
• Playoffs (BO3)
  • 30-31.10 (Wildcard 4vs5)
  • 3.-4.11 (Quarterfinals)
  • 6.-7.11 (Semifinals)
  • 10.-11.11 (Finals)

Click here to see the standings & schedule

Lite & Core 

• ECL Lite & ECL Core teams and teams that the League Administration has determined are too experienced for Neo & Newcomers
• This is a friendly warmup tournament, no need to argue (=no League Admin cases)
• Qualifier teams can participate, but the final rounds of the playoffs may coincide with the qualifiers
• 8 groups of 8-9 teams
  • 4 teams per group make the playoffs
• Double-header gamedays
• Regular season 17.10-28.10
• Playoffs (BO3)
  • 30-31.10 (RO32)
  • 3.-4.11 (RO16)
  • 6.-7.11 (Quarterfinals)
  • 10.-11.11 (Semifinals)
  • 13-14.11 (Finals)

Click here to see the standings & schedule

Neo & Newcomers 

• Only ECL Neo & Newcomer teams
• This is a friendly warmup tournament, no need to argue (=no League Admin cases)
• 4 groups of 8-9 teams
  • 4 teams per group make the playoffs
• Double-header gamedays
• Regular season 17.10-28.10
• Playoffs (BO3)
  • 30-31.10 (RO16)
  • 3.-4.11 (Quarterfinals)
  • 6.-7.11 (Semifinals)
  • 10.-11.11 (Finals)

Click here to see the standings & schedule

Rules

We hope you all enjoy and remember to play by the ECL rules! Although the Pre-Season Tournament will not be under as strict scrutiny as the ECL, we want to remind you to respect your opponents and go about the games just as you would when playing real ECL league matchups.
 

If teams are tied in points after the group stage, we will utilize these usual tie-breakers:

• Wins (including OT-wins)
• Head-to-head record (points in mutual games)
• Goal difference (across all games played)
• Scored goals (across all games played)

Edit: When searching, leave the Grudge Match setting off.

Regarding traits and abilities

About a month ago we announced that we would approach NHL 25 as a new game and that the starting point for conversation would be that there are no bans on traits or abilities. As this didn't seem to generate much of a conversation, we announced that we are sticking to this decision. Thus, all traits and abilities are available until further notice.

That being said, our announcement stirred up a lot of conversation with players who had missed the original announcement and invitation to discuss. Please use the below link to join the conversation and voice your opinion.

Player Ability Bans - ECL '25 Season Discussion

Uniform and logo unlocks for organizations

This form is intended for organizations associated with SportsGamer to request primarily uniform and logo unlocks in order to represent their team appropriately. Here is a link for the unlocks form: https://forms.gle/TRy9PkVwh13gqMGs5

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: Winter 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: Winter Player License before taking the ice. Players in ECL Neo require only an ECL '25: Winter Neo Player License.
  The ECL '25 Pre-Season tournament does not require the license, but purchasing the license early on is recommended for faster processing.
   
• Rules: The ECL '25 rulebook will be published closer to the season, you can check out last season's rules here.

For a more extensive overview of the ECL as a whole, check out our “What is the ECL?” news story released a few weeks back. 

We hope you're as excited as we are to get back into the action - good luck out there, and have fun!
 

As we gear up for another thrilling season of the European Championship League, it’s crucial that you’re aware of the upcoming sign-up deadlines for ECL ’25. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a newcomer eager to make your mark, make sure you register by these key dates:

• ECL ’25 Pre-Season: Sign-up by October 15, 2024. Kick off the season with a bang and get some early practice against some of the best teams around!
• ECL Pro Wildcard Battle: Deadline is October 25, 2024. A chance for new and rising teams to secure a spot in the Pro division.
• ECL Lite and Pro Qualifiers: Finalize your team’s entry by October 28, 2024. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to climb the ranks in the thrilling qualifiers.
• ECL Elite, Pro & Elite: All entries must be in by October 28, 2024. The stakes are high, and so is the competition.
• ECL Neo & Core: The last call for registration is on November 13, 2024. Perfect for teams looking to make their debut or gain more experience.

For more details on each of these events and to sign up, visit our dedicated news articles:  ECL ’25 Winter Sign-Ups  and Pre-Season Tournament Information.

Don’t let the deadlines pass you by — secure your spot today and be a part of the action!

Are you and your team ready to take center stage? For the upcoming ECL ’25: Winter season, we’re offering teams and select players from all divisions the chance to be a Featured Team & Player. This opportunity is perfect for teams passionate about content creation, who love interacting with the community, and who aren’t afraid to put themselves out there!

As a Featured Team, you may:
    •    Stream regularly on the SportsGamer Twitch channel every few weeks, showcasing your journey through the season.
    •    Get highlighted in interviews and special features across our platforms.
    •    Work closely with us to promote the content you create, whether it’s gameplay highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, or anything that captures your team's spirit.

We’re looking for teams who aren’t afraid to dive in, have fun, and embrace the spotlight—those willing to fully commit, throw themselves into the experience, and create memorable moments for our community. The more creative and engaging, the better!
If this sounds like your team, apply now, and let’s make this season unforgettable together!

We’re looking to develop this new concept together with you. The teams and players participating will shape the exact direction and outcome, making it a truly collaborative effort. Your creativity and commitment will help define what it means to be a Featured Team or Featured Player this season.

While we’re excited to collaborate with as many teams and players as possible, there is limited availability in how many we can feature at the same time. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not selected right away! We encourage everyone to apply, as there will be more opportunities in the future, and we’d love to see your passion and creativity in action.
 

Apply to Be a Featured Team in ECL ’25: Winter!

Apply to Be a Featured Player in ECL ’25: Winter!

ECL ’25: Winter Sign-Ups Open – The Stage is Set for Europe’s Finest

With the start of another thrilling season in European NHL esports fast approaching, the ECL ’25: Winter season opens its doors to a new wave of competitors.

Since its inception in 2015, the European Championship League (ECL) has established itself as the pinnacle of eHockey, where top 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 even the goalies—is controlled by human players, creating a uniquely competitive environment. With divisions ranging from elite to entry-level, the ECL provides a platform for all skill levels to prove themselves.

This winter, the stakes are higher than ever. As teams finalize their rosters and strategies, the countdown begins: who will rise to the challenge and who will fall short? With registration now open, the road to eHockey glory starts here. 

With a total prize pool of 24,000 EUR on the line—spread across both 6v6 and 1v1 formats—the stage is set for the most competitive season yet 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: Winter 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: Winter Player License before taking the ice. Players in ECL Neo require only an ECL '25: Winter Neo Player License.
  The ECL '25 Pre-Season tournament does not require the license, but purchasing the license early on is recommended for faster processing.
   
• Rules: The ECL '25 rulebook will be published closer to the season, you can check out last season's rules here.

For a more extensive overview of the ECL as a whole, check out our “What is the ECL?” news story released a few weeks back. 

ECL '25 Competitive Year

For a more comprehensive read about the European NHL 25 year, please see the ECL '25: Season Presentation and NHL 25 Annual Calendar article

The sign-ups close on the below-mentioned dates:

• ECL '25 Pre-Season: 15.10.2024 (Click to read more)
• Pro Wildcard Battle: 25.10.2024
• ECL Lite Qualifier: 28.10.2024  
• ECL Pro Qualifier: 28.10.2024  
• ECL Neo: 13.11.2024 
• ECL Core: 13.11.2024
• ECL Lite: 28.10.2024  
• ECL Pro: 28.10.2024 
• ECL Elite: 28.10.2024  

* Signups will close at 23:59 CET on the day mentioned unless otherwise specified.

Schedule

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.

• Lite Qualifier start: 1.11
• Pro Wildcard Battle: 30.-31.10 (if necessary)
• Pro Qualifier start 3.11.
• Elite Qualifier start: 2.11. (if necessary)

The exact details will be shared once the number of teams is known.

Regular Season duration:
17.11-19.12.2024

Estimated finals dates:
Below are estimated dates for the Finals to be approximately played. We reserve the right to changes in schedule.
All 

• ECL Neo Finals 9.2.
• ECL Core Finals 31.1.-1.2.
• ECL Lite Finals 4.-5.2.2025
• ECL Pro Finals 29.-30.1.2025
• ECL Elite Finals, Thursday 20.2.2025 @ Assembly Winter 2025, Helsinki

PLEASE NOTE: ECL '25: WINTER 1v1 SIGNUPS WILL LAUNCH LATER
 

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 Player and Team Licenses

Below you’ll find the pricing of the team and player licenses for ECL ‘25. You can pick up the ECL ‘25: Winter Team license and the ECL ‘25: Player License (Winter + Spring) for the Early Bird pricing listed below. After that, we will offer a slightly elevated regular pricing from October 20th 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: Winter 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 Lite division, purchase the Super Early Bird Lite license. If your team doesn’t qualify for the Lite division, you will play in the Core division and we will refund you the difference - in this example: 100 EUR.

The ECL Neo division does not require a team license, however, we are introducing an ECL Neo Player license at the cost of 10 EUR per season. This will enable us to improve our coverage of the division, cover the finals broadcast and offer access to the two formats: the ECL Cup & the 4v4 tournament. Read more about them below.

Please refer to this ECL Ranking in order to understand which teams are eligible to sign up for each division.

Introducing two new formats - ECL Cup & ECL 4v4

We've been cooking up some extra fun to be had during the season and we can't take all the credit, as there have definitely been suggestions coming in from the community.

• ECL Cup is a knock-out type tournament that is played with your ECL 6v6 team. The Cup is played as a single elimination bracket populated by ECL teams from all divisions. The bracket is played at a slower pace and the action will go on for weeks, but if you lose - you're out! A bit dramatic perhaps, but oh boy are we expecting some drama!
• ECL 4v4 is exactly what it sounds like - a tournament played in the 4v4 mode of the game. All positions are to be filled with human-controlled players. We understand this game mode might not be for everyone, so the 4v4 tournament will not be a requirement for anyone to enter.
• ECL 1v1 is also back and we're excited to announce that we will be seeing some structural changes for the upcoming season, which we'll tell you more about in the near future.

We'll have more info about all of these fun events in the coming weeks, but you may absolutely feel free to speculate and come with your wishes in the comments below, as there could still be time for adjustments!

New License perks

We're excited to share that we will be able to offer the following perks to ECL '25 license owners:

Assembly Winter 2025 Tickets

Limited Time Offer: Get a free ticket to Assembly Winter 2025 for Thursday, February 20th! Come and enjoy the ECL ‘25: Winter - Elite Finals and hang out with the community. Once you’ve purchased your license, fill out this form to apply for your free ticket. Act fast—tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

We would also love to see attendees from outside of Finland join us for the Finals event. If you’re interested, please fill out this form so we can assist you with travel advice and answer any questions you may have.

Stay tuned for more news about Assembly Winter 2025 and read more about the event itself at https://assembly.org/en/events/winter25.
 

SportsGamer Health & Performance Program

Get premium access to the SportsGamer Health & Performance Program, free for an extended period to help you reach your peak performance.

Introducing the SportsGamer Health Program, a cutting-edge wellness platform with content specifically designed for gamers. While the platform offers a comprehensive range of workouts, home exercises, and courses, it also includes specialized content to boost your gaming performance. All materials are crafted by leading fitness professionals, ensuring you get the best in physical training.

The program features gamification elements, making it fun and engaging to stay active on the platform. Additionally, it includes a dedicated section of short lectures from professional mental coaches, helping you dive deeper into individual and team-based approaches to gaming. This blend of physical and mental training ensures that you can stay healthy and sharp, both in and out of the game

We’re excited to share more details with you as we approach the start of the new season. In the meantime, we’re seeking volunteers to test out the platform and its content as we continue to develop it. We’re looking for a small, diverse group of people of all ages, nationalities, and physical conditions. So, whatever your situation, if this sounds interesting to you, please fill out this form to apply.

New Initiative -  Social Program

We’re committed to growing NHL gaming and esports!

As part of a new initiative, we want to inspire teams and players to focus on their social media presence. We’re excited to showcase the best goals, biggest hits, and epic fails, and highlight them across SportsGamer broadcasts, programs, and social platforms.

Introducing the ECL Social Program – designed to spotlight the best content from around the league and reward those who go the extra mile. While we’ll be focusing on video content, exceptional overall social media coverage is also appreciated.

Stay tuned for more details and specifics on how you can get involved!

Rule Changes & Community Opinion

We would like to raise two items up for a community vote and open up the floor for discussion.

Zone & Superstar Abilities - Yay or nay?
For the ECL ‘24: Spring season we decided to ban a selection of Zone & Superstar Abilities. As NHL 25 is a new release, and we haven't had a chance to test it out yet, our initial instinct is to start with a clean slate and not ban any abilities until the community gets to know the new game and has a chance to make up its mind about whether the abilities are working or not. While we have preliminarily set our minds on not banning any abilities for the first season, we welcome the discussion and would love to hear your opinion. You can discuss player abilities here.

Are there some rule-related changes we’ve missed?

Now is your chance to discuss and suggest what type of changes you would like to see in the rulebook.

PLEASE NOTE: ECL '25: WINTER 1v1 SIGNUPS WILL LAUNCH LATER

Sign up NOW for the ECL '25: Pre-season tournament and stay tuned for the official kick-off of the ECL ’25: Winter Signups, launching mid-September!

SportGamers,

Our community is growing with new members every year. From time to time we are asked for tips on how to find a team or how to find players for your team.  In this post, we have put together a few links to our forum where you can either search for a team or sign up as a free agent. You'll also find some tips at the end, that might be just what you need to connect with that new group of potential teammates. This post is mainly intended for the European audience that is interested in playing in the European Championship League.

Free Agents EU - PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S

In this forum section, you can register as a free agent or search for new players for your team. 
You will find a "reply to topic" section under the last message on the page where you can post your own free agent message. In this message, you can briefly tell us about yourself, what position you are looking to play, and how to best reach you.

Please note that a community account is required in order to post a message. Please also note that this forum section is only for free agent messages.
 

Testing a new Free Agency Team feature

We have received requests that free agents would like to have the free agency status appear on their player card, so we want to test a basic version of this functionality here on SportsGamer. if you wish to participate, send a private message to @SG Free Agent Admin with your PSN ID/Gamertag. You will receive an invitation to the Free Agent team on SportsGamer and by accepting it, this will give you the status visible on your player card.

Please note that the invitation is usually not immediate and can take some time. Also, note that whatever positions and favorite position you have selected on your player card when accepting the invitation is what will appear in your free agency profile.

You can browse the Free Agent team here.

Once you find a new team you can join it right away and send a message to @SG Free Agent Admin (who is the captain of the Free Agent team), and you will be removed from the free agency. If the system is received well, it can later be automated with smoother functionality and more user-friendly options.

While this new approach will help list free agents and offer an additional way to be seen, for the best result in finding a team we still recommend following the other tips in this news story!
 

EU Clubs looking for players - PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S

In this section of the forum, you can let everyone know when your team is looking for players, which means free agents can find teams by browsing this thread. You will find a "reply to topic" section under the last message on the page. Here you can write your "club looking for players" post where you tell us about the club and what kind of player you are looking for. You can look for good tips for your post in the numerous posts written by other clubs.

Please note that both of these above-mentioned forum threads are meant only for writing the "ads". When you see something you're interested in, please use private messaging (e.g. SportGamer, Discord, PSN or Xbox Live) to contact them. Usually, the writer of the post will let you know how to best get in touch. So here is your reminder: whenever you post, remember to mention how to best get in touch with you.

Useful tips

In addition to these previous tools, we recommend you to be active and try to play as much as possible.

• On our Discord server, you will find a section called "free for tonight"
  In this section, you can sign up for free play and of course, if you're lucky you might find some people that want to play with you in the future.
   
• Another good tip that works is to add "FA" or "Free Agent" to your player's name in the game so that your teammates and opponents can see during the game that you are looking for a team.

There you have it! We hope you find these tips useful. Feel free to share your advice in the comments. Good luck finding the perfect match!

Hey Gamers,

I'm sure many of you have seen the reminders already, but we want to make sure nobody misses the fact that today is the last chance to purchase the ECL '25 licenses at the Super Early Bird pricing. This is the final reminder for those who have not had a chance to purchase the Super Early Bird Licenses yet. Grab your Super Early Bird ECL '25: Winter Team license and ECL '25 Player License (Winter + Spring) at special pricing until midnight. After that, Early Bird pricing applies, so get yours now!

If you're wondering "What is the ECL?", read this article.

If you're looking for information about the new ECL season and the NHL 25 competitive year, read this article.