2025 National Stones League Preview
The Dynasty Watch: Can the Chautauqua Armada Stay Perfect?
The Chautauqua Armada are the NSL’s undisputed juggernaut. In three full seasons, they’ve never lost a match—a staggering feat that has put the league on notice. Their dominance has largely stemmed from their 4v4 superiority, closing out event after event with veteran precision and cohesion.
But 2025 brings questions the Armada haven’t had to answer before. The offseason trade of Alex Milliner for Jake Ferrari collapsed when Ferrari sat out, leading to his release and leaving Chautauqua with a thinner roster than ever. While they retain their fearsome core trio—Peyton, Lake, and Jason Sivak—depth is now the critical concern. Rookie Spencer Bell joins the fold, and the availability of Bryce Deering remains uncertain. If the Armada intend to keep the streak alive, they’ll need to make roster moves quickly—bringing in team-first players who can be molded by the leadership of the Sivak trio and bolster the 4v4 unit that has become their trademark.
Iron Will: Jamestown Ironmongers Aim to Rebound Through Teamwork
The Jamestown Ironmongers finished dead last in 2024, but that record masks a far more promising foundation. A forfeit and shallow bench plagued their season, not a lack of talent. Heading into 2025, Jamestown looks revamped, retooled, and ready to rewrite the narrative.
Captain Rob Dubois returns as the emotional engine of the team—bringing unmatched energy and leadership. His son Shane Dubois, now more seasoned and hungry to shine, is poised for a breakout campaign. The Ironmongers also made savvy moves in the offseason: acquiring No. 6 ranked 2024 player Tom Rhodes and multi-time world champion Jeff Breen. Rookie Jonah Tanner adds youth and length, while veteran Jake Hnatyszyn brings consistency and game management.
With better availability and a schedule that suits their roster, Jamestown looks nothing like the team that struggled last year. They’re built for cohesion, anchored by leadership, and could surprise in a major way.
Buffalo Mafia Reloads: From Collapse to Contender?
No team underwent more dramatic changes this offseason than the Buffalo Mafia. After a turbulent 2024 that saw disappointing finishes and inconsistent play, the front office pulled the trigger on a complete overhaul—emerging with arguably the most intriguing roster in the league.
Headlining the changes is the blockbuster acquisition of Alex Milliner, one of the most decorated players in Stones history. But what makes the move even more compelling is the Mafia’s drafting of Nate Priester—Milliner’s longtime teammate and partner from a dominant Multi-year run. Their reunion sets up fireworks in the 2v2 format.
Buffalo’s draft haul also included a major steal: Trent Trask at 4th overall, previously expected to be kept by Jamestown. Add in key contributors Nick Everson, Matt Johnson, and rookie Hunter Barrett, and this squad is deep. Returning to anchor the team are captain Erik Johnson, 2024 league-leading scorer Kade Sivak, and knockout specialist Jake Ferrari.
With skill, versatility, and experience, the Mafia are positioned to flip the script and contend in every format. Expect a team that’s motivated, loaded, and much improved.
Chaos Reignited: Pittsburgh's Momentum Carries into 2025
In 2023, the Pittsburgh Chaos didn’t win a single match. In 2024, they reached the NSL Championship Game. Their turnaround was one of the most shocking—and inspiring—stories in the league’s short history.
Their path to success was built on chemistry, resilience, and smart play in 4v4 matchups. That same identity will be key again this season. They’ve retained emotional leaders like Kenzee Thornley and fan-favorite Doug Kirkwood Jr., but also infused the roster with fresh blood and firepower.
The draft brought in competitive veterans like Anthony Pineda, Eddie Scroxton, and Collin Finch—players who bring experience and a relentless will to win. The final steal came in the form of Chris Kinka, one of the longest-tenured players in the game. If he’s active, he could be a difference-maker all season. Add in a potential return from versatile utility player Nathan Saar, and the Chaos could be deeper and more dangerous than ever.
With a blend of seasoned toughness and new energy, Pittsburgh looks to prove that last year’s magical run was no fluke.
The Road Ahead
The 2025 NSL season is full of tension, history, and unfinished business. Will the Armada remain untouchable? Can Buffalo’s retooled machine live up to the hype? Will Jamestown turn culture into wins? And are the Chaos truly here to stay?
One thing’s for sure—the league is no longer top-heavy. Every team has the pieces to make a run. Now, it’s about who can put them together.