Inside The Rink’s ECHL Triple Threat: Our Must-Watch Hockey Showdowns (01/08-01/12/2025)

Photo: Rick Crossman/Inside the Rink

As the season progresses, several key matchups are on the horizon, each with the potential to significantly impact the standings. Teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences are gearing up for crucial games that could determine their playoff positions and overall rankings.

In the Eastern Conference, top teams are striving to maintain their dominance, while those lower in the standings are fighting to climb up and secure better positions. The Western Conference features intense competition as well, with teams looking to solidify their spots and make statements against higher-ranked opponents.

These upcoming games promise high stakes and thrilling action, making them must-watch events for fans eager to see how the season unfolds.

Florida Everblades at Idaho Steelheads

  • Date: Wednesday, January 8
  • Time: 7:10 PM MST
  • Location: Idaho Central Arena, Boise, Idaho

Florida is currently second in the Eastern Conference with 47 points and a strong win percentage of 75.8%. Idaho, on the other hand, is seventh in the Western Conference with 37 points and a win percentage of 57.8%. This game is crucial for Idaho to climb up the standings and for Florida to maintain their top position.

Wheeling Nailers at Indy Fuel

  • Date: Wednesday, January 8
  • Time: 7:00 PM EST
  • Location: Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Indianapolis, Indiana

Wheeling leads the Eastern Conference with 47 points and a win percentage of 78.3%. Indy, although ninth in the Western Conference, has shown resilience with 30 points and a win percentage of 51.7%. This game will be a test for Wheeling to continue their dominance and for Indy to prove their mettle against a top team.

Kansas City Mavericks at Utah Grizzlies

  • Date: Friday, January 10
  • Time: 7:10 PM MST
  • Location: Maverik Center, West Valley City, Utah

Kansas City is second in the Western Conference with 44 points and a win percentage of 68.8%. Utah, while lower in the standings, will be looking to upset a top team and gain some momentum. This game is important for Kansas City to solidify their position and for the Utah Grizzlies to try and make a statement.

Another Matchup to Watch!

Why only have three games when we have a fourth you just may want to add to your list.

Cincinnati Cyclones at Atlanta Gkadiators

  • Date: Saturday, January 11
  • Time: 7:00 PM EST
  • Location: Gas South Arena, Duluth, Georgia

Cincinnati is currently at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, but they have been showing signs of improvement with a recent winning streak. Atlanta, now sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference with a win percentage of 52.9%, will be looking to secure a win to improve their playoff chances and build on their recent momentum. This is the first time Cincinnati will visit Atlanta this season. For these reasons, this game is one to watch as it is crucial for both teams as they fight for better positions in their respective conferences and divisions.


As the season continues to unfold, these pivotal matchups will undoubtedly shape the landscape of both conferences. Fans can look forward to intense competition, potential dramatic shifts in the standings, and some unforgettable moments on the ice. Stay tuned for all the action and excitement as these teams battle it out for points.


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Karen Zehner

Inside The Rink ECHL Manager | Senior Editor | Credentialed Beat Writer covering the ECHL Atlanta Gladiators. Diving into the world of slap shots, penalty kills, and the game we love. [@RunwithK] on socials.

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