Last season, the team had 23-45-3-1, earning them 50 points in the standings as they finished 7th in the South Division and 27th overall in the ECHL standings. Offensively, the team struggled, averaging only 2.60 goals scored per game, placing them 26th in the league (2023-24). Defensively, they have allowed an average of 3.67 goals per game, ranking them 23rd. On special teams, their power play efficiency stands at 18.4%, which is 19th in the league, while their penalty kill efficiency which is better standing at 80.1%, ranking them 10th. Overall, these statistics help highlight some areas in need of improvement for the team as they navigate through the upcoming season.
As the Atlanta Gladiators gear up, fans do have plenty to be excited about. With a mix of returning veterans and promising new talent, the team looks poised to make a strong push in the South Division. We will take a look deeper at a few players that may provide that push and others to keep an eye out for as the season progresses.
Forward Group
Cody Sylvester
The Atlanta Gladiators have been fortunate to have Sylvester on their roster, as he has proven to be a vital asset for the team. His experience and offensive skills have made him one of the top scorers, while his leadership qualities resonate both on and off the ice. In addition to his contributions in the ECHL, Sylvester has gained valuable international experience, having played in various European leagues, including those in Germany and Austria. His time abroad has allowed him to further demonstrate his scoring ability and versatility, enriching his overall game and benefiting the Gladiators as a whole.
Playing Style
- Scoring Ability: Sylvester is known for his ability to find the back of the net. He has a quick release and a knack for being in the right place at the right time.
- Leadership: As a veteran player, he brings leadership qualities to the team, often serving as a mentor to younger players.
Expectations: For the upcoming season, Sylvester is expected to continue being a key offensive contributor for the Gladiators. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as the team aims for a successful campaign. Fans can look forward to seeing him play a pivotal role in both scoring and mentoring younger teammates.
“It’s rare in today’s game to be able to beat goalies with uncontested shots, and he has that ability. His experience not only at this level, but higher levels adds to our group in many ways.
-Head Coach Derek Nesbitt, Atlanta Gladiators Press Release (9/6/2024)
Eric Neiley
Eric Neiley is a seasoned forward with the bonus of a year of coaching under his belt. He is known for his impressive scoring ability and leadership qualities on the ice. Neiley has been a key contributor to the team’s offense, showcasing his skills and scoring ability. After a brief retirement following the 2022-23 season, he made the decision to return to the Gladiators for the 2024-25 season During his previous season with the team, he impressively recorded 44 points, including 25 goals and 19 assists, in just 50 games. Beyond the Gladiators, Neiley has also played for other teams, including the Adirondack Thunder and the Jacksonville Icemen in the ECHL, as well as the Providence Bruins in the AHL.
Playing Style
- Scoring Touch: Neiley is known for his ability to score goals, often finding the back of the net in crucial moments.
- Leadership: As a veteran and former assistant coach, he brings leadership qualities to the team, both on and off the ice. His experience is invaluable, especially for younger players.
- Competitiveness: Neiley is described as a fierce competitor who has often inspired his team during tough stretches.
Expectations: Leading by example is crucial in any team environment, and Sylvester’s return is anticipated to significantly boost the team in this area. By contributing offensively, he can continue to be a key player, providing essential goals and assists that can make a difference in those close games Additionally, his experience with Atlanta positions him perfectly to mentor younger players.
Jackson Pierson
Jackson Pierson is a dynamic forward with experience and talent, contributing significantly to the Atlanta Gladiators.
Rookie Season: Pierson’s offensive contributions were crucial to the team’s success, showcasing his skills as a consistent performer throughout the season. With impressive stats that include 15 goals and 25 assists, he tallied a total of 40 points, highlighting his dual threat as both a scorer and playmaker. His +5 plus/minus rating reflects his effectiveness on the ice, as he contributed positively to the team’s overall performance. With just 18 penalty minutes, Pierson demonstrated discipline while still being a pivotal part of the Gladiators’ strategy, making him an invaluable asset to the squad.
Playing Style
- Playmaking Ability: Pierson is known for his ability to set up scoring opportunities for his teammates.
- Versatility: Pierson can adapt to various roles on the ice, whether it’s contributing offensively or playing a more defensive, shutdown role.
Expectations: Pierson is expected to continue to bring his playmaking skills and experience to the Gladiators, providing depth to the forward lineup. His ability to win faceoffs and create scoring chances will be crucial for the team’s success.
Overall Offensive Outlook
The offensive outlook for the Atlanta Gladiators in the 2024-2025 season looks promising with several key players returning and new additions to the roster. The team will need to focus on improving their scoring consistency and power play efficiency to compete effectively in the South Division.
Players like Jackson Pierson, who had 15 goals and 25 assists last season, will be crucial in driving the offense. Developing young talent and ensuring that all lines contribute offensively will be essential for the Gladiators to reach 3.0 to 3.5 goals per game. Accomplishing this would place them in the upper tier of the league for offensive performance, boosting their competitiveness in the South Division. Most teams that advanced to the playoffs last season were within that range.
Defensemen
Derek Topatigh
Playing Style: Topatigh is a physical, top notch defenseman known for his reliable defensive coverage and hard-nosed play. He doesn’t contribute much offensively but is highly valued for his ability to shut down opposing forwards and play a tough, gritty style.
Expectations: As a physical defenseman, Topatigh is expected to anchor the Gladiators’ defensive efforts. His primary role will be to shut down the opposing team’s forwards, maintain solid defensive coverage, and bring a physical presence to the ice. Given his gritty play, he will likely be tasked with handling tough defensive assignments and penalty-killing duties.
Zach Yoder
Playing Style: Known for his physical play and ability to clear the front of the net, Yoder combines physical play with solid defensive fundamentals. He’s reliable in his own zone, great at blocking shots, and isn’t afraid to throw his weight around. Yoder also has a knack for contributing offensively, particularly in clutch situations, which adds to his value as a two-way defenseman.
Expectations: Yoder’s balanced two-way play makes him a crucial asset for both defense and offense. Expectations are for him to contribute to scoring opportunities while ensuring robust defensive play. His physicality and shot-blocking abilities will be vital, especially in critical game moments. Yoder will also be relied upon during power plays and penalty kills.
“Zach is a big defenseman with a long reach, that plays the game hard. He’s a versatile player that can play forward as well, and will do whatever is asked of him. He’s a team first guy and a very popular player in the room. Zach knows his game well, and that level of consistency will help our group grow. We’re excited to have him back in the mix.”
-Assistant Coach Matt Ginn, Atlanta Gladiators Press Release (8/15/2024)
Dylan Carabia
Playing Style: Carabia is more of an offensive-minded defenseman. He’s effective at moving the puck up the ice and generating scoring opportunities. With good vision and passing skills, he can set up plays from the blue line. However, he still maintains a solid defensive presence, making him a versatile player on the ice.
Expectations: Carabia is expected to be a key player in generating scoring opportunities from the blue line. His ability to make precise passes will be essential for setting up plays and assisting the forwards. In addition to fulfilling his defensive duties, Carabia is also expected to make a significant contribution to the team’s power play units.
Overall Defensive Outlook
Defensive Zone Coverage
Enhancing defensive zone coverage will be essential. By ensuring that the team maintains their positions and effectively protects the net, scoring opportunities can be significantly reduced. This also involves quick and efficient puck retrieval in the defensive zone to limit the time spent defending their goaltenders.
Physical Play
Utilizing physicality to disrupt opponents’ offensive plays is essential. Players like Brenden Datema, known for his size and on ice presence, can make it uncomfortable for opposing forwards to operate in the Gladiators’ zone. Consistent physical play can wear down opponents over the course of a game.
Penalty Killing
Effective penalty killing requires strong positioning, quick reactions, and the ability to clear the puck under pressure. Focusing on these aspects can help reduce the number of goals conceded while shorthanded. Last season they did this well, maintaining and further improving this strength will give them an edge. In comparison, the Florida Everblades achieved an impressive 85.3% in this category and concluded the season with a Championship title.
Goaltending
Drew DeRidder is expected to play a crucial role for the Gladiators, given his experience in goal. Last season he was in net for 26 games with Iowa, achieving 10 wins, 11 losses, and 3 overtime losses. His Goals Against Average (GAA) stands at 3.09. His overall performance will be vital as the team navigates close contests in the season.
Areas to Watch
Special Teams: Improving power play efficiency will be crucial for the Gladiators. Effective special teams can often be the difference in tight games.
Team Chemistry: As was the case last year, with several new faces on the roster, developing strong on-ice chemistry will be important. Early-season games will be a good indicator of how quickly the team has adapted and gelled together. The quicker they find their rhythm, the better their chances of a successful season.
Depth in Forward Lines: The Gladiators boast a deep roster of forwards capable of contributing offensively. This depth will be essential in maintaining a consistent scoring threat throughout the season.
Defensive Stability: With the addition of experienced defensemen like Christian Hausinger and other newcomers being added to the mix, the Gladiators’ blue line looks solid. This stability will be key in shutting down opposing offenses.
Overall Outlook
The Atlanta Gladiators are set up for a promising season, though the road ahead is likely going to be challenging for them. With a well-rounded roster that combines seasoned players and skilled newcomers, the team has the tools needed to compete in the South Division. They will encounter familiar and strong opponents including the current Kelly Cup Champions, the Florida Everblades, as well as the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, Jacksonville Icemen, Orlando Solar Bears, Savannah Ghost Pirates, and the South Carolina Stingrays.
To thrive in the division, one with some solid playmakers on each roster, the Gladiators must concentrate on enhancing their offensive output and defensive reliability. With a strong group of players and ongoing development, they have the opportunity to advance in the standings and make a significant push for the playoffs.
