Franchise mode is a very fun part of EA Sports’s NHL franchise. It is amazing to have the opportunity to control a professional hockey team and aim to have them win the Stanley Cup. A lot of hockey fans are not too happy with the moves that their favorite teams tend to make, so this game mode allows the player to build them in their image. However, the mode does pose some serious challenges for those who are new to it, as strategy is definitely needed to find success.
There are many elements that can lead to a successful team in this game, so it is important to be aware of each of them. The smallest of missing areas can result in these teams struggling immensely, even if the team itself is good on paper. This can actually make this mode frustrating at times. However, certain steps can be made to help alleviate the chances of this occurring. The main purpose of this mode is to win, so acknowledging all aspects of it is very important.
Hiring Good Coaches
Although it may not seem important at first glance, hiring a good coach really impacts this mode, especially if the player opts to simulate seasons. Not only is obtaining an A-level coach important, but their chemistry with the team’s players is also essential.
This can truly impact the team’s record, especially if the coaches have low team chemistry and morale with one another. It can make a significant difference in the overall scheme of things, so definitely keep an eye on it.
Paying Attention To Line Chemistry
The line chemistry feature is another newer one that needs attention drawn to it. Players will produce better statistics if they are on lines with others they mesh well with. The higher the plus, the better the team will do.
The opposite occurs when lines have a minus rating, as it can impact even the best of players negatively. It also is very important when it comes to the development of younger players, as they can grow immensely or stay completely stagnant. If the players sharing the ice don’t gel well, it won’t translate to wins.
The 85% Rule With Extending Contracts
If a player wants an extension once his contract is set to expire, it’s something to pay attention to. This player will sign an extension for 85% of his asking price, which definitely is helpful when it comes to the salary cap in this game.
This can be amazing, as it allows the player more leverage when building the team elsewhere. This is where star players from the roster can be extended at bargain prices, which frees you up to use your money on other talents.
Scouting And Drafting
The draft is one of the most important elements of this game mode, especially when it comes to rebuilding teams. Also, it is crucial when it comes to the later portions of it, as this is a mode that the player can keep using for 25 simulated seasons.
Therefore, having top-of-the-line scouts is important at the end of the day. It is good to have them in all areas of the world, as it will give the player far more options to choose from. It’ll help ou find steals late in the draft who become surprise successes. The in-depth level of detail in this mode is a key part of every major NHL game.
Smart Free Agent Signings
Free agency is definitely very important in this successful sports gaming franchise, as it allows the player to bring in new talent. Outstanding players do seem to be on this list every single season, but it is important to truly evaluate the roster before jumping to sign them.
Every team seems to have weaknesses, so it is far more important to go after the biggest need first. Also, if crucial players on the roster are due for raises in the following off-season, it is not the best of ideas to bring in a bank-breaking contract too.
Utilize The Trade Deadline
The Trade Deadline is so important to pay attention to, as it allows the player so much more leverage with trades. A plethora of players are on the block during this time, so it is great to keep an eye on who may fit as a late-season acquisition.
It also is fantastic because it shows exactly what teams want in return. This is the perfect aspect of this mode that allows the player to build their finalized roster for the upcoming playoff push. However, it also is great because it can be a good tool for those who are rebuilding and want new prospects.
Trading Players Who Do Not Want To Re-Sign
The vast majority of the time, it is very important to trade players who do not want to re-sign. It is best to do this before the start of a season, as it can become harder to do if a playoff push is occurring.
It can be a tough pill to swallow, especially if the said player is very talented, but it is better to get something back for them than lose them for nothing. Also, it is never smart to overpay them to stay either.
Prospect Development
Truly, prospects play such a massive role in this game. That is why proper prospect development is extremely crucial for success in this mode. The player can not rush them, but also needs to allow them the chance to thrive in the roles they are currently placed at.
Line chemistry also plays a role in their development, as well as extra playing time on special team units. Although veterans are extremely important in this game, prospects are what will carry the team in the future.
An A-Tier Goalie
Goaltending is a very important element to any team in this mode, so having a fantastic one is truly beneficial. This is the case no matter how a player decides to play through this mode.
It is also good that a lot of fantastic goalies do not necessarily ask for the biggest of contracts sometimes. If a goalie of elite stature is available on the market and asking for at most $8 million, it is an absolute steal, to say the least.
Veterans Drop Fast
No matter how good a player is in this game, it is inevitable that they will drop off when they become older. As a result of this, it is important to keep an eye on a veteran’s potential. For example, if a player drops from elite to top-six potential, he is on the decline.
This is when a move is truly a necessity, as his trade value will drop off significantly after each season that is played. This will allow the player to continue to have a roster that is on the rise, rather than one that is becoming worse each season.
