ECHL North Division Playoff Race: Final Stretch Defines Seeding and Survival
Two teams clinched spots, but the thrilling chase for seeding and that final playoff berth intensifies as the ECHL North Division season winds down.
As the regular season rapidly comes to an end, the ECHL’s North Division playoff race is entering its most pivotal stretch. While two teams have already secured their place in the postseason, positioning — and one final playoff spot — remain very much up for grabs. The Wheeling Nailers and Maine Mariners have officially punched their ticket to the Kelly Cup Playoffs, but there is a bigger battle behind.
It involves the Adirondack Thunder, Reading Royals, and Trois-Rivières, and it’s looking likely that it will go down to the final days of the season. Wheeling Nailers Captain Matthew Quercia during a game against the Maine Mariners on 11/15/2025. Photo Credit: Wheeling Nailers Wheeling and Maine Battle for Division Title Wheeling has spent a majority of the season at the top, and under the helm of a new Head Coach, Ryan Papaioannou.
For the Division Title, Wheeling can control its own destiny when it comes to grabbing it. Finishing first is significant. It’s not just for banners, but for playoff positioning.
The division winner will face the fourth-place team in the first round, while the second-place team faces off against the third-place team. The Maine Mariners have put together a strong season of their own and remain within striking distance of Wheeling for the top spot. Even if the Mariners don’t catch the Nailers, securing second place gives home ice advantage to the Mariners in the first round.