AHL vs Alps Hockey League

How would you compare/contrast AHL and Alps Hockey League?

The American Hockey League definitely takes the nod here head to head, but this isn't a knock on Alps Hockey in the slightest. The AHL is just one of the top 3 leagues in the world. Alps Hockey League has continued to get stronger with rosters built up by regionally based players and a number of higher end imports to really strengthen out rosters. The style of hockey is very different in that AHL hockey is more physical with more fighting whereas Alps is a skill first and extra pass in zone type of style on the larger Olympic ice.

Our team of partners has been scouting games in each of these leagues for many years. We've also had players previously play here which give us added knowledge on the levels in each league.

AHL

The AHL is a professional ice hockey league. It is North America's 2nd highest level of pro hockey sitting directly below the NHL.

Alps Hockey League

The Alps Hockey League is a regional professional hockey league in the south of Europe, with teams spread across Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia.

Location: North America

Location: Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia

Skill Level in American Hockey League

The AHL (American Hockey League) is a professional hockey league based in North America. It's the 2nd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, sitting only below the NHL. The level of play here is quite high with it just being a small step away from the best league in the world. Not only is it a highly skilled league and natural proving ground for aspiring NHL players, but it's one of the toughest and most physical leagues to play in across the board.

Skill Level in Alps Hockey League

Founded in 2016, the Alps Hockey League features teams across Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia. The level of hockey on the ice is high quality and off the ice, the majority of the leagues clubs continue to thrive and be financially stable.

Player Perspective: American Hockey League

"The Jungle (AHL) is what a lot of us players call a meat grinder. During the season, the travel schedule is demanding too. Every team has guys that can play in the NHL and guys that can fight. Many have both. To me, it's a great way to gain experience and prepare for the NHL when you hopefully get that call."

Player Perspective: Alps Hockey League

"It’s a great league to play in. The import players that each team carries bring another level of experience and you know who they are on opposing rosters."

Number of Teams in American Hockey League: 32

Number of Teams in Alps Hockey League: 13

Caliber of Players and Imports in AHL

The skill level of AHL players is extremely high and it's the primary development league for the NHL. Each AHL roster is filled with talented up and coming players (most drafted, some undrafted) who aim to make their way up to the main NHL club one way. Many seasoned veterans have already put in the time in the AHL and some have spent quality time in the NHL but didn't stick for one reason or another (they're still exceptional players). You'll also find some top tier European players mixed in as well who are on various NHL contracts.