ECHL Game Preview: Atlanta Gladiators vs Orlando Solar Bears | 02/19/2025

The upcoming game between the Atlanta Gladiators and the Orlando Solar Bears promises to be an exciting matchup. Both teams bring unique strengths to the ice, and their recent encounter on February 17, 2025, was a closely contested battle. As the Gladiators prepare for their next game, they face the challenge of adjusting to the absence of key players on injured reserve.

Game Day

Atlanta Gladiators vs. Orlando Solar Bears – February 17, 2025

In their last game, the Atlanta Gladiators (21-23-5-2) were defeated by the Orlando Solar Bears (23-23-2-0) with a final score of 2-1 at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida, on February 17, 2025. Drew DeRidder made his third straight start in goal for the Gladiators, while Ryan Fanti was between the pipes for the Solar Bears. At 9:00 of the first period, Orlando scored the opening goal as Anthony Bardaro knocked a rebound into the top right corner of the net. Orlando defender Chris Harpur started the play by joining the rush and firing a wrist shot off DeRidder’s glove, which landed perfectly for Bardaro to cash in. To close the first period, Gladiator defender Anthony Firriolo and Orlando defender Ben Carroll both went to the box for simultaneous roughing penalties.

Early in the second period, forward Anthony Bardaro scored again, leading the Solar Bears to a 2-0 advantage. Bardaro capitalized on a loose puck in front of the Gladiator net and lifted it over DeRidder’s mitt. Late in the second period, Randy Hernández potted a wrist shot past an outstretched Ryan Fanti, assisted by Dominiks Marcinkevics and Derek Topatigh, bringing the score to 2-1. Despite outshooting the Solar Bears 14-11 in the final frame, the Gladiators were unable to find a goal to tie the game, and Orlando held on to win the contest. In the loss, Drew DeRidder made 33 saves on 35 shots for the Gladiators, while Ryan Fanti stopped 29 of 30 in the win for Orlando.

Key Players to Watch in the Upcoming Matchup

Looking ahead to their next matchup tomorrow night in Orlando at 7 PM, the Solar Bears will aim to continue their winning momentum. Key players to watch include Anthony Bardaro, who has been in excellent form, and goaltender Ryan Fanti, who has been solid between the pipes. For Atlanta, they’ll be looking to bounce back with strong performances from players like Randy Hernández and goaltender Drew DeRidder. Additionally, for Atlanta keep an eye on Dominiks Marcinkevics, a versatile forward who contributes both in scoring and playmaking.

Haider vs. DeRidder

If Ethan Haider is back in net for the Atlanta Gladiators, it could significantly impact the game. Haider has been a strong performer for the Gladiators this season, posting a record of 13-9-1 with a 2.87 goals against average (GAA) and a save percentage of .899 in 24 games. His presence in goal could boost Atlanta’s defense and give the team more confidence. Haider’s ability to make key saves and his experience in high-pressure situations could be crucial in a closely contested game. With Haider in net, Atlanta’s chances of securing a win increase, especially if the team can provide solid defensive support and capitalize on their scoring opportunities. His return could be a game-changer for the Gladiators, making the upcoming matchup even more exciting. Haider’s last game in net for Atlanta was on February 8, and he went on a 3-day Injured Reserve on February 15 so there is a chance he could return this week.

Drew DeRidder’s recent performances have been a cornerstone for the Atlanta Gladiators though, showcasing his resilience and skill in high-pressure situations. In his last three games, DeRidder has maintained impressive save percentages, including a standout 94.3% against the Orlando Solar Bears. With Haider’s return a bit uncertain, DeRidder’s role becomes even more critical. His ability to consistently deliver strong goaltending, handle a high volume of shots, and keep games close will be pivotal for the Gladiators’ defense. If DeRidder continues to perform at this level, he can certainly provide the stability and confidence the team needs.

Injury Report – Atlanta

With Patriks Marcinkevics, Brenden Datema, and Easton Armstrong on 14-day injured reserve, they may not be available for some time. The absence of these players may require the team to focus on strengthening their defense and improving their power play efficiency. Players like Randy Hernández, Simon Boyko, and Alex Campbell will need to step up and create scoring opportunities if that’s the case.

Contributions of Simon Boyko, Alex Campbell, and Chad Nychuk

Simon Boyko and Alex Campbell have both made significant contributions to the Atlanta Gladiators since joining the team. Boyko has been a standout player, scoring twice in a recent game against the Savannah Ghost Pirates. Boyko tipped in his first goal as a Gladiator, assisted by Michael Marchesan, and later scored again with a blistering wrist shot over the opposing goaltender’s shoulder. His ability to find the net and create scoring opportunities has been a valuable asset for Atlanta. Campbell made an immediate impact in his debut for the Gladiators, scoring a goal by deflecting a beautiful backhanded pass from Chad Nychuk. Campbell’s offensive skills and versatility have added depth to Atlanta’s forward lineup, making him a key player to watch in upcoming games.

Chad Nychuk’s return to the lineup has also been impactful. In his recent games, Nychuk has shown strong defensive play and contributed offensively. His assist on Campbell’s goal in his debut game highlights his ability to support the offense from the blue line. Nychuk’s presence adds stability to Atlanta’s defense and provides an additional offensive threat, making him a crucial player for the Gladiators.

Contributions of Orlando Solar Bears Players on Loan

The Orlando Solar Bears have also seen significant contributions from players coming back to the roster on loan. Defenseman Hudson Thornton, loaned from the Hershey Bears (AHL) on February 15, has appeared in 37 ECHL games this season for South Carolina and Orlando, posting 12 points (3Gs, 9A). Thornton’s strong defensive play and ability to contribute offensively make him a valuable addition to the team.

Goaltender Ryan Fanti, loaned from the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL on February 10, has been a standout performer for Orlando. Fanti has appeared in 25 games this season for the Solar Bears, posting a 12-10-2 record with a 2.85 GAA and a .906 save percentage. He is unbeaten in his last 10 ECHL starts, posting a 9-0-1-0 record, and was named ECHL Goaltender of the Week for the week of January 6-12. Fanti’s consistent performance in goal has been crucial for Orlando’s success.

Forward Milo Roelens, reassigned from the Syracuse Crunch (AHL) on February 10, has also made an impact. Roelens has appeared in 35 games for the Crunch this season, posting eight points (6G, 2A) and 32 penalty minutes. The hulking 6-foot-7, 217-pound forward brings physicality and offensive skills to the Solar Bears, making him a key player to watch.

Statistics Leading into the Upcoming Game

The upcoming game between the Atlanta Gladiators and the Orlando Solar Bears is set to be an exciting matchup, with both teams bringing unique strengths to the ice. The Gladiators have scored 131 goals this season but have also conceded 149, indicating a need for stronger defensive play. Their power play percentage stands at 12%, which is an area they will need to improve to capitalize on scoring opportunities. On the penalty kill, they have a 78% success rate, which will be crucial in keeping Orlando’s power play at bay.

If the Atlanta Gladiators win, earning those much needed two points, their total goes up to 51 points. This would help them move closer to the Orlando Solar Bears, who currently have 63 points. A win would also improve Atlanta’s win percentage and boost their chances of securing a playoff spot. Every point is crucial in this competitive division, especially for Atlanta, and a victory against Orlando would be a significant step forward for the Gladiators. A loss for Orlando would also affect the Solar Bears win percentage and momentum, potentially allowing teams like Jacksonville and South Carolina to gain valuable ground on them.

On the other hand, the Solar Bears have scored 149 goals and conceded 131, showcasing a more balanced approach between offense and defense. Their power play percentage is a solid 18%, and their penalty kill is impressive at 86%, making them a formidable opponent in special teams play. These statistics suggest that Orlando has a slight edge on both side of the ice. Given these stats, the key for Atlanta will be to tighten their defense and improve their power play efficiency. Players like Randy Hernández, Simon Boyko, and Alex Campbell will need to step up and create scoring opportunities.

Prediction

The game is likely to be closely contested, similar to the previous matchup on Monday. If Atlanta can make a few adjustments, they have a good chance of keeping the game tight. Expect a final score potentially around 3-2 in favor of Orlando, but with a strong possibility of Atlanta making it another very competitive match.