As the Atlanta Gladiators enter the final stretch of the regular season, they find themselves in a challenging position. With 54 games played and only 18 remaining, the team has a 23-24-5 record, putting them below the .500 mark. With 36 points still up for grabs, the Gladiators must make significant improvements if they hope to secure a postseason spot.
Their goal differential (-37) highlights their struggles this season, particularly on defense and special teams. To turn things around, they must focus on tightening defensive play, improving special teams, and increasing offensive consistency. The upcoming schedule presents a mix of opportunities and challenges, and Atlanta will need key players to step up in order to make a final push.
Special Teams: The Good News and the Bad News
It has been mentioned before that the Atlanta Gladiators’ special teams have shown both promise and challenges this season. While the home ice offers a competitive edge and disciplined defensive play has helped in crucial moments, the power play remains an area that has hurt them.
Power Play Performance
Atlanta’s power play efficiency is struggling at just 13.1% overall, with a home rate of 15.6% and a dismal 10.3% on the road. The team benefits from a slight home advantage, but inconsistent results and low shot quality hurt their performance. Key players like Cody Sylvester, Blake Murray, and Derek Topatigh need to generate more high-danger opportunities.
Penalty Kill Performance
The Gladiators’ penalty kill stands at 79.1%, with a marginal improvement at home (79.8%) compared to the road (78.3%). While no short-handed goals have been allowed at home, the team has given up 36 power-play goals overall. Players such as Andrew Jarvis, Jeremy Hanzel, Ryan Cranford, and Easton Armstrong need to play more aggressively, supported by strong goaltending from Drew DeRidder and Ethan Haider.
Impact on Upcoming Games
Against the Savannah Ghost Pirates on March 1-2, Atlanta will face an 82.7% penalty kill, demanding creative power play strategies. On the March 7-9 road trip to Kalamazoo and Toledo, the penalty kill must be extra sharp, especially against Toledo’s top-ranked power play. Additional challenges come against South Carolina (March 14-15), Orlando (March 26 & April 2-4), and Florida Everblades (April 9-12), where smart special teams play will be key. They are set to face the Savannah Ghost Pirates in a rescheduled game on April 13th in Savannah. Originally slated for January 24th, the matchup was postponed due to weather-related issues.
Atlanta’s Forward Group: Time to Take Control
While the Atlanta Gladiators’ top scorers have carried much of the offensive load, secondary scoring and depth contributions will be crucial in their playoff push. The team has struggled to produce consistent offense, with only 138 goals scored so far. For Atlanta to turn things around, several forwards need to step up in key areas:
While Cody Sylvester (19G, 17A, 36PTS), Blake Murray (12G, 21A, 33PTS), and Eric Neiley (11G, 19A, 30PTS) have been productive, secondary scorers like Joey Cipollone (9G, 16A, 25PTS) and Easton Armstrong (8G, 12A, 20PTS) can and should be relied on to provide additional support.
With so much on the line, Atlanta’s top players must deliver in high-pressure moments on every puck battle.
Cody Sylvester (19G, 17A, 36PTS, -13) – Continue Leading the Charge
Alternate Captain Sylvester remains the team’s top offensive weapon, leading in goals (19) and power-play goals (7). While Sylvester has delivered in key moments, he will need to maintain his high level of play and possibly increase production to lift the offense.
What He Needs to Do: Stay aggressive in high-danger scoring areas and continue to be a power-play threat.
Blake Murray (12G, 21A, 33PTS, -5) – Become a Even Bigger Playmaker
Murray is second on the team in assists (21) and has been one of Atlanta’s most reliable playmakers. However, with the team struggling to score consistently, he must create additional scoring chances down the stretch. When he does so, he tends to find the net and is often there to get the team on the board early.
What He Needs to Do: Be more aggressive offensively, drive the net more, and look for pivotal scoring chances.
Eric Neiley (11G, 19A, 30PTS, +4) – Continue Veteran Leadership
Captain Eric Neiley has been a key two-way player, ranking among the team’s top scorers while maintaining a positive plus/minus (+4). His leadership and ability to contribute in all situations will be crucial. Neiley has been out injured, so his absence has been felt among the forward group.
What He Needs to Do: Once he is back in action, he will likely need to keep up his strong play in all zones and be a reliable presence on both ends of the ice.
Joey Cipollone (9G, 16A, 25PTS, -8) – Increase Offensive Consistency
Cipollone has been solid in secondary scoring, and he has shown a ton of offensive potential but must bring it consistently.
What He Needs to Do: Focus on two-way play while remaining aggressive in the offensive zone.
Easton Armstrong (8G, 12A, 20PTS, -3) – Step Up on Special Teams
Armstrong has been a solid depth player, but the Gladiators need him to contribute more on special teams to boost their struggling power play (13.1%).
What He Needs to Do: Be a net-front presence on the power play and take advantage of rebound opportunities.
Ryan Cranford (9G, 10A, 19PTS, -2) – More Physicality & Defensive Play
Cranford has been an under-the-radar contributor, but he could play a bigger role in defensive situations and physical play.
What He Needs to Do: Play a grittier game, use his size to win puck battles, and be a strong forechecker.
Patriks Marcinkevics (6G, 14A, 20PTS, +5) – Continue Developing His Game
One of the more efficient forwards (+5 plus/minus), Patriks Marcinkevics has made a strong impact despite playing fewer games (33) than most of his teammates. However, after last appearing in a game on February 2nd, he was placed on the 14-day injured reserve on February 11th, delaying his return to action. Once back in the lineup, he could see an expanded role as Atlanta pushes for a playoff spot.
What He Needs to Do: When he returns, Marcinkevics should find ways to become more involved in the offense with any increased ice time he gets. His efficiency with the puck suggests he can make the most of his opportunities, and Atlanta will need that production down the stretch.
Keys in the Faceoff Circle: Connor Galloway & Jackson Pierson
Winning faceoffs is an underrated but crucial part of the game. Especially in high-stakes situations where possession can make the difference between closing out a lead or mounting a comeback. Galloway and Pierson are two players who can step up in the dot and give Atlanta an edge.
Connor Galloway: Reliable Depth Faceoff Presence
Galloway’s role as a depth center means he can be valuable in defensive zone draws and on special teams.
What He Brings to Faceoffs & the Team:
Reliable in the Defensive Zone – Winning faceoffs in Atlanta’s end reduces scoring chances against and helps start clean breakouts.
Energy & Grit – He plays a responsible, hard-nosed game, which helps him battle in scrappy faceoff situations.
Jackson Pierson: Playmaker & Faceoff Specialist
Pierson has been a quietly effective center who excels at puck distribution and winning possession off the draw.
How Pierson Helps in the Faceoff Circle:
Playmaking Ability – Winning faceoffs in the offensive zone sets up scoring chances, and Pierson is a strong passer who can quickly set up plays off the draw.
Late-Game Faceoff Reliability – In close games, especially when Atlanta needs a goal or is protecting a lead, Pierson can be trusted to win key faceoffs in all zones.
Atlanta Gladiators: Early Momentum & Second-Period Dominance
As the Atlanta Gladiators enter their final regular season games, their performance based on game situations provides valuable insight into what they may need to do to secure wins. Their success largely depends on getting an early lead, as their record shows they struggle when trailing after two periods.
First Period: Importance of a Strong Start
- When Leading After 1st Period: (13-3-2-1, 79.4% win rate)
- When Tied After 1st Period: (6-4-0-0, 60% win rate)
- When Trailing After 1st Period: (4-17-3-1, 22.2% win rate)
The Gladiators must prioritize scoring early, as they have a 79.4% chance of winning when leading after the first period but struggle significantly when trailing (only 22.2% win rate). In games against high-scoring teams like South Carolina and Toledo, Atlanta must come out aggressive in the first period to avoid chasing the game. If the Gladiators fall behind early, their odds of winning drop significantly, making early offense and defensive discipline essential.
Second Period: The Deciding Factor
- When Leading After 2nd Period: (14-1-2-0, 88.9% win rate)
- When Tied After 2nd Period: (6-4-0-1, 63.6% win rate)
- When Trailing After 2nd Period: (3-19-3-1, 13.6% win rate)
Impact on Upcoming Games:
If Atlanta leads after two periods, they almost always win (88.9%). This means they must play aggressive hockey in the middle frame to either extend a lead or take control of tight games. When tied going into the third period, they are still solid (63.6%), but that number shows they need to capitalize on opportunities late in games rather than relying on overtime or shootouts. If they trail after two periods, the outlook is bleak (only a 13.6% chance of winning). This underscores the importance of staying competitive through the first two periods rather than relying on late-game heroics.
Why Randy Hernández is a Key Second-Period Contributor
For the Atlanta Gladiators, the second period has been a key area for offensive success, and one forward has emerged as a consistent difference-maker—Randy Hernández.
While the third period often gets the spotlight for late-game heroics, the second period is when momentum swings happen, and Hernández has been one of Atlanta’s most effective weapons in this frame. His speed, offensive instincts, and finishing ability allow him to capitalize on open ice and breakdowns in defensive coverage, making him an ideal forward to push Atlanta ahead before the final period.
Even-Strength Play: His ability to find soft spots in coverage and drive the net has resulted in key second-period goals.
Defensive Responsibility & Puck Retrieval: Not just a goal scorer, Hernández’s two-way play allows him to help Atlanta sustain offensive pressure and prevent counterattacks.
Bottom Line: Hernández has proven himself as a second-period game-changer, and Atlanta should lean into his strengths to build momentum before the final frame. By maximizing his ice time and offensive opportunities in the middle period, the Gladiators can set themselves up for strong finishes and much-needed wins. With four of his ten goals coming in the second period, Hernández thrives once he gets into a groove and exploits defensive breakdowns. Atlanta should look for ways to carry his production into the third period, making him an even more complete scoring threat.
Third Period: Can the Gladiators Close Out Games?
The third period has been both a strength and a weakness for the Atlanta Gladiators this season. They have been able to generate offense (54 goals scored, their highest-scoring period), but they have also struggled defensively (55 goals allowed), making it difficult to close out tight games.
If Atlanta wants to turn things around in the final 18 games, they need players who can protect leads and step up in key third-period situations—both offensively and defensively. Up next, we spotlight some blueliners who will be instrumental.
Blue Line Leaders: Who Will Factor Most for Atlanta?
While Derek Topatigh (7G, 27A, 34 PTS, +4) has been the Gladiators’ top defenseman, more contributions are needed from the rest of the blue line to strengthen defensive play and transition the puck effectively. Here are a few key defensemen who must step up down the stretch:
Andrew Jarvis (4G, 6A, 10PTS, -1)
While Jarvis has been steady defensively, he can be more physically engaged and active in blocking shots to help reduce high-danger scoring chances. With a near-even plus/minus rating, he has been reliable, but increased defensive-zone awareness and better positioning can help him make an even bigger impact.
Anthony Firriolo (3G, 11A, 14PTS, +6)
Firriolo has been quietly effective, posting a +6 rating, indicating he is on the ice for more goals for than against. As one of the more defensively responsible players, he can help stabilize the blue line and contribute offensively when needed.
Dylan Carabia (1G, 3A, 4PTS, -10)
Carabia brings physicality but needs to be more disciplined in his positioning to avoid defensive breakdowns. He also must help clear rebounds in front of the net to give goaltenders DeRidder and Haider more support.
With 175 goals against this season, the defense must reduce mistakes, play smarter in their own zone, and increase physicality in front of the net. If Jarvis, Firriolo, and Carabia can elevate their play and support Topatigh, the Gladiators will have a much better chance of making a playoff push.
Goaltenders: A Bright Spot Amidst Challenges
Despite the Gladiators’ struggles this season, goaltending has been a key strength that has kept them competitive in many games. Drew DeRidder (2.84 GAA, .910 SV%) has been a reliable presence in net, consistently giving his team a chance to win. His two shutouts highlight his ability to step up when needed, and his .910 save percentage is a testament to his strong shot-stopping abilities, even when facing a high volume of shots.
Ethan Haider (3.04 GAA, .896 SV%) has also had strong performances, securing 14 wins in his 27 starts. His ability to make key saves in close games has been vital, and his three shutouts show his potential to be a game-changer down the stretch. While the Gladiators’ defense has struggled at times, their goaltending duo has been a stabilizing force, keeping games within reach and giving the team a chance to earn points.
As Atlanta pushes for a playoff spot, solid goaltending will be a key factor in their success. If DeRidder and Haider can continue their strong play and get more defensive support, the Gladiators will have a much better chance of closing out tight games and securing crucial wins in their final 18 contests. However, as we have seen, the netminders will need some help in the coming month and a half of games.
The Defensive Anchor in Clutch Moments: Jeremy Hanzel (D)
Just like with the forward group, there is one player that may be a factor defensively that may not initially come to mind —Jeremy Hanzel. Hanzel has emerged as a reliable force on the blue line for the Gladiators. His ability to break up opposing plays and transition the team from defense to offense makes him invaluable when protecting leads. With Hanzel anchoring the defense, Atlanta can look forward to a more stable and impactful performance in tight, game-deciding situations.
How Hanzel Could Impact Third-Period Play:
Defensive Stability: Hanzel’s smart positioning consistently helps shut down opposing attacks, maintaining Atlanta’s defensive structure.
Puck Transition: His seamless ability to shift from defense to offense during the final period could create critical momentum shifts.
Clutch Scoring Impact: Although both games where Hanzel scored two third-period goals ended in losses, his ability to generate late offensive sparks shows his potential to shift momentum and narrow scoring gaps. This indicates that with more consistent support, his timely contributions could be the difference.
The Impact of Smart Defensive Play
The Gladiators must tighten up defensively and stay out of the penalty box to maximize their playoff chances. Their margin for error is razor-thin, and defensive discipline will be key in securing must-win games. DeRidder (.910 SV%) Haider (.896 SV%) have kept Atlanta in games, but they need better defensive support to limit second-chance opportunities. Blocking shots, clearing rebounds, and limiting odd-man rushes will ease pressure on the goaltenders.
Key Defensive Focus Areas for Atlanta
Atlanta’s defense must focus on three key areas: avoiding undisciplined penalties, controlling the front of the net, and executing efficient breakouts. The team has kept penalties low this season, with only 15 major and 204 minor penalties. Avoiding stick infractions—like hooking, tripping, and slashing—is crucial, especially in late-game situations. Reducing turnovers in the defensive zone and making smart, efficient passes will minimize scoring chances against Atlanta.
Atlanta must continue its disciplined approach while committing to structured defensive hockey to stay in the playoff hunt. Smart defensive positioning and limiting turnovers will reduce high-danger chances against and keeping penalties to a minimum ensures Atlanta plays to its strengths at even strength.
If the Gladiators stay disciplined and focused defensively, they give themselves the best chance to win enough games and push for a playoff spot.
Games Where Defensive Discipline Will Be Critical
March 7-9 at Kalamazoo & Toledo: Both teams boast strong power plays. Atlanta must avoid penalties and stay disciplined in the defensive zone.
March 14-15 vs. South Carolina: The Stingrays excel at forcing mistakes. Atlanta must play clean, structured defense to limit turnovers and scoring chances.
April 9-12 at Florida: The Everblades are an elite offensive team. Atlanta must minimize penalties to prevent giving Florida a costly man advantage.
Key Takeaways for the Remaining 18 Games
- Start Strong: Atlanta must score first and avoid falling behind early to maximize their chances of winning.
- Win the Second Period: Games are often decided by the end of the second period—if the Gladiators trail after 40 minutes, they have little chance of a comeback.
- Quality Over Quantity in Shots: Atlanta’s success isn’t based on outshooting opponents but on making their shots count. They need to focus on high-danger scoring chances rather than shot totals.
- Close Games Are Winnable: When tied after two periods, Atlanta still has a 63.6% win rate, so playing smart and disciplined in the third period is critical.
- Avoid Late-Game Deficits: With a 13.6% win rate when trailing after two periods, the Gladiators must avoid playing from behind in the final frame.
If Atlanta can get early leads, control the second period, and focus on creating high-danger scoring opportunities, they have a strong chance of winning enough games to stay in the playoff race.
Bottom Line: Can the Gladiators Make the Playoffs?
With 36 points still available, the Atlanta Gladiators now control their own fate. Their upcoming schedule offers both challenges and opportunities. Games against Savannah, South Carolina, Orlando, and Jacksonville are winnable, while two tough road series against Florida and Toledo will test their resolve.
To make a serious playoff push, Atlanta must improve special teams, tighten up defensively, and get consistent production from their top players. If they can do that, there’s still a chance to turn the season around and fight for a postseason berth.
The road ahead is difficult, but strong performances in March and April can keep their playoff hopes alive. The Gladiators don’t need to win every game, but their margin for error is extremely small.
Atlanta must also prioritize regulation wins. In the ECHL, regulation wins are the first tiebreaker and are more valuable than overtime or shootout victories. It’s not enough to simply win games; how they secure those wins is just as important.
- If They Win 12 of 18: (~24 points) → 75 points total (borderline playoff spot)
- If They Win 14 of 18: (~28 points) → 79 points total (stronger playoff case)
- If They Win 10 or Fewer: (~20 points) → 71 points total (unlikely to qualify)
🔴 Atlanta cannot rely on OT/SO wins to make the playoffs.
🟡 They need to prioritize closing out games in regulation to gain an advantage in tiebreakers.
🟢 If they must go to OT, winning is still critical—but regulation wins are the key to securing a postseason spot.
Now is the time for Atlanta to rise to the challenge.
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