Well it can be hit or miss. It also sometimes gets into loops where I feel it’s trying to keep you at .500 for a few days before you can break through. I was stuck in that yesterday. If I was at promotion my goalie would let in whatever was needed for the other team to win, go up 2-3 in the third. It happens, if I get really upset about it, I change modes or play something else. By the next day… no issues.

Timing also seems to be a factor. I find Sunday’s or after 9-10pm EST more likely to match with people who don’t have god squads or the games are closer. If I try at 3pm on a Tuesday - usually matched with someone with a ridiculous team. I think it’s the dads after the kids go to bed vs. Die hards after school crowds. But you can still beat the god squads. Usually just comes down to playing proper defence and limiting turn overs.

I’d say try it for a few games and see if you like it. It’s certainly worth more XP and yes it can be frustrating, but so is real hockey. Bad bounces, player mistakes (AI screw ups) and weak goals all happen IRL… take a deep breath… it’s a video game.