Eisbären Berlin Face Injury Woes and Contract Termination Amid Playoff Push

Berlin, Germany – The Eisbären Berlin are grappling with a growing injury list and a recent contract termination as they fight to secure a playoff spot in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). The team suffered a 1:3 defeat against the Fischtown Pinguins Bremerhaven on March 1, 2026, further complicating their playoff aspirations.

Injuries Mount for Eisbären

During the game against the Fischtown Pinguins, the Eisbären lost both defender Mitch Reinke and forward Lean Bergmann to injuries. Reinke sustained an upper-body injury, while Bergmann suffered a lower-body injury. Both players are expected to be sidelined indefinitely, according to a club announcement Fischtown Pinguins.

These injuries add to the Eisbären’s existing injury concerns, as goalkeeper Jake Hildebrand remains out for several more weeks. Long-term injuries to Blaine Byron and Patrick Khodorenko continue to keep them off the ice.

Contract Terminated for Matej Leden

In addition to the injury setbacks, the Eisbären have terminated the contract of 21-year-old forward Matej Leden for disciplinary reasons. This decision further impacts the team’s roster as they navigate the final stretch of the season.

Playoff Implications

Currently seventh in the DEL standings, the Eisbären are striving to climb to sixth place to avoid the pre-playoffs. The Fischtown Pinguins currently hold the sixth position with a four-point lead over Berlin sport.de. The loss to Bremerhaven on March 1st widens the gap and increases the pressure on the Eisbären to perform in their remaining games.

Gudlevskis Shines for Pinguins

The Fischtown Pinguins secured the 3:1 victory over the Eisbären, largely due to the outstanding performance of goaltender Kristers Gudlevskis, who stopped 34 shots Fischtown Pinguins. The Pinguins will next face the Straubing Tigers, while the Eisbären will travel to Dresden to play the Eislöwen.