The moment hockey collectors have eagerly anticipated is here—the grand unveiling of the 2024-25 Upper Deck Extended Series Hockey set. Completing the eagerly awaited yearly trifecta of flagship releases, this set isn’t just a cherry on top; it’s an entire sundae of sweet collectibles. By adding a diverse blend of updated player cards, innovative inserts, and an entire suite of sought-after Young Guns rookie cards, this release is designed to dazzle and gratify even the most discerning collectors. If you’ve got a penchant for pucks and a fervor for collecting, missing out on this dynamic set would be akin to skating on thin ice.
Entering the arena boasting a complete 750-card lineup across the extended series, the 2024-25 edition doesn’t just fill in the gaps left by Series 1 and Series 2; it truly embellishes and elevates the Upper Deck Hockey offerings to new heights. This extended series isn’t just about filling cardbinders; it’s about creating them anew, to accommodate the 250 additional cards now available. Every hobby box opens like a treasure chest, unveiling multiple enticing inserts or parallels with almost every pack—a veritable feast for the card aficionados.
The card checklist is as expansive as it is impressive—200 of these freshly minted cards gloriously flash seasoned veterans, some donning spanking-new team threads or styles. It’s a visual roller-coaster for fans eager to see their beloved players in a fabulously fresh light or to discover newly traded stars in their latest jerseys. Then, of course, we come across the pièce de résistance – the concluding 50 spots, proudly reserved for the fabled Young Guns and exclusive 1st Round Rookies. These aren’t just cards; they’re golden tickets. Appearing approximately every other pack, these coveted creations propel collectors into a frenzy, each scratch of the pack opening holding a promise of future legends.
Now, let’s talk turkey – or more precisely, parallel cards. These slippery treasures have got collection buffs biting their nails and testing their luck. Think of them as a hockey-themed Willy Wonka hunt.
– Outburst cards tease out at 1:30 packs in Hobby, yet more elusive in Blasters at 1:90.
– Clear Cuts make a slippery appearance at 1 per 96 packs, pushing collectors to their edge.
– Exclusives flash their appeal, numbered succinctly to just 100.
– Outburst Reds, Limited to 25, entice those who want something extra spicy.
– High Gloss cards up the ante, rare birds indeed, numbered to just 10.
– And for the ultimate chase, the Outburst Gold is a one-of-a-kind unicorn only the lucky few will tote in their collection.
Injecting another shot of adrenaline into this already exciting series are the various inserts and special features peppered through. Returning champs – UD Canvas cards, seduce with their frantic flair for featuring Young Guns, Legends, and those dashing NHL All-Stars. Sub-sets and Canvas parallels in Black, White, and even Printing Plates spice things up even more.
For those dazzled by the annual Dazzlers chase, this time, the spectrum stretches even further. Blue varieties grace 1:12 packs, while the rare Pink Dazzlers make for a more elusive quarry at 1:72. Meanwhile, collectors can chase exclusive Blaster Green Dazzlers, a unique offering available every 4 packs.
This year, a mystical surprise awaits: Oracles inserts, whimsically inspired by tarot cards, make their enigmatic debut. Ranging from challenging SP to ultra-rare SSP, and even the fabled 1:180 pack rarity, collectors have a new reason to delve deeper into each pack.
Bringing nostalgia to the fore are beloved classic inserts making their scene-stealing comeback. Pros and Prospects, the timeless Beehive, and the multifaceted UD3, lead the charge. Battering the boards with triple-tier splendor are Upper Deck Encore and Trilogy Rookie Premieres ranging from Common to that rare-as-hen’s-teeth tier, /99.
Helpers like Triple Dimensions Reflections, layer the excitement with a prism of Ruby, Amethyst, Emerald, Gold, and Sapphire parallels to chase and cheer about. This year, Silver Skates drift gracefully back into the spotlight, with Gold parallels limited to a cozy 250.
As collectors ready to dive in, here’s what they can expect: each Hobby Box promises an avalanche of opportunities to unearth valuable gems. From the much-loved Beehive nuggets to a generous serving of Blue Dazzlers, this box is a smorgasbord of delights. Expect layers of intricate inserts, rarity rankings with Rare/SSP Oracle sightings, and those jubilant Young Guns or 1st Round Rookies, with the thrilling unpredictability of treasure within each pack waiting to be revealed.
The 2024-25 Upper Deck Extended Series Hockey is a sublime spectacle that transcends mere collecting. It’s a journey—one that spans dreams of discovering the rookie card of the next hockey superstar, and possibly, one’s golden ticket to crafting an extraordinary collection. Whether new to the card game or a hardened veteran of the collecting community, this release offers a thrilling expedition into the world of premium hockey cards. Consider it not merely a purchase but an adventure in tactile nostalgia, a camaraderie with fellow collectors, and an unwavering tribute to a timeless sport.
