The Schwenninger ERC Wild Wings lost their license due to insolvency proceedings and the Frankfurt Lions were granted a stay in the league.

The two last-placed teams, the Frankfurt Lions and Schwenninger ERC Wild Wings played a playdown best-of-seven series against relegation.

However, as insolvency proceedings against the Wild Wings opened, the DEL canceled their license and the Lions were allowed to stay in the league.

The Eisbären were considered a strong favorite as they finished the regular season with 109 points vs. the Penguins 78.

The final series started April 11, 2003 with a homegame for the Kölner Haie who were the higher placed team after the regular season.