November is almost upon us marking what will be the second full month of action in the 2024-2025 GMHL season and with it we officially have our first GMHL Team Power Rankings of the year!

*All Stats and Records listed as of October 29^th, 2024

GMHL Power Rankings (Top 10 Teams)

1. Bradford Rattlers (8-0-0, 1.000 PCT) – North Division
   The Rattlers stand as the only undefeated team in the GMHL, dominating with both the best offense and defense. Their 6.25 goals per game ranks among the league’s best, and their ability to allow just 2.13 goals per game gives them a significant edge. With a perfect record, they’ve shown consistency in beating top teams, proving why they’re the team to beat.
2. Tottenham Railers (9-4-0, 0.692 PCT) – South Division
   Tottenham’s win over North York solidified their status as a top contender in the South Division. Their offense, with 69 goals scored, is among the highest in the league, and their defensive efforts, while not as strong as the Rattlers, have held steady. With big wins in crucial matchups and a balanced roster, Tottenham continues to look dangerous.
3. North York Renegades (11-2-0, 0.846 PCT) – South Division
   North York has been a powerhouse this season, scoring consistently and maintaining one of the best defenses in the league, allowing just 1.69 goals per game. Despite their strong record, their loss to Tottenham highlights vulnerabilities, but their form against other teams keeps them near the top of the rankings. They remain a well-rounded team that can challenge anyone in the GMHL.
4. Meaford Knights (4-2-0, 0.667 PCT) – North Division
   Meaford may have fewer games played, but their win over Wasaga proves they can compete with the best. Their 6.33 goals per game shows that they have an explosive offense, which is critical when facing teams with more games under their belt. Meaford’s success has come in tight matchups, and their ability to beat top teams like Wasaga moves them up in the rankings.
5. Wasaga River Dragons (8-2-0, 0.800 PCT) – North Division
   Wasaga remains one of the top-scoring teams in the GMHL, with an impressive 6.8 goals per game, making them a constant offensive threat. However, their loss to Meaford suggests they need to tighten up defensively against higher-caliber opponents. They are still a top contender, especially given their ability to overwhelm weaker teams with their scoring depth.
6. West Nipissing Lynx (9-4-1, 0.679 PCT) – North Division
   West Nipissing has had a solid season so far, though their defense has been a concern with 4.0 goals allowed per game. Their offense has been potent, but their inconsistencies in preventing goals may hold them back from challenging the top teams. Nonetheless, their record shows they can grind out wins, making them a dangerous team moving forward.
7. St. George Ravens (8-3-2, 0.692 PCT) – South Division
   The Ravens have shown steady form, with 65 goals for and 50 goals against, highlighting their balanced approach. While they have lost some tight games, their ability to stay competitive in high-scoring affairs makes them a contender in the South Division. Their recent win keeps their momentum going as they continue to push for a top spot.
8. Northumberland Stars (6-2-1, 0.722 PCT) – South Division
   Northumberland’s limited number of games hasn’t stopped them from making an impact, boasting a respectable defense with 28 goals allowed. Their high-scoring offense and ability to stay tight in games have helped them climb the rankings. If they can maintain this level, they’ll continue to challenge the top South Division teams.
9. Ville-Marie Pirates (6-7-0, 0.462 PCT) – North Division
   The Pirates are a bit of a wild card, with equal goals for and against (51 GF, 51 GA), which makes them unpredictable. They’ve shown flashes of strong play but need more consistency to move up in the standings. Despite their middling record, they’ve had competitive games, keeping them relevant in the power rankings.
10. Bradford Bulls (5-5-2, 0.500 PCT) – South Division
    The Bulls have had a .500 season thus far, but they’ve managed to keep games close with their 50 goals for and 49 goals against. If they can string together more wins and tighten up defensively, they have the potential to climb higher. For now, they round out the top 10 but remain a team to watch as the season progresses.

Honourable Mentions

Le Becard de Senneterre (5-8-0, 0.385 PCT) – North Division
While Senneterre’s record may not be stellar, they have 63 goals for, which shows they can score with the best teams in the league. Their main weakness has been their defense, allowing 82 goals, which has caused them to drop games. If they can find a way to shore up their defense, they could make a strong push toward the top 10.

Niagara Predators (5-7-0, 0.417 PCT) – South Division
Niagara has shown resilience this season, with close games and competitive matchups, despite their losing record. They’ve scored 37 goals while allowing 41, showing they can compete but need more offensive output. A few more consistent wins could see them crack the top 10, especially if they can string together a winning streak.

These two teams could easily move into the top 10 if they manage to balance their offensive efforts with a stronger defensive presence and capitalize on key matchups.