AHL vs FPHL

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.

FPHL

The FPHL is a lower-tier professional ice hockey league based in the United States. The league was originally founded back in 2009.

Location: North America

Location: United States

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 FPHL

The FPHL is a lower-tier professional ice hockey league that's based in the United States. The league was initially called the FHL (Federal Hockey League) when it was formed but later rebranded to the current league name which is the FPHL (Federal Prospects Hockey League). Majority of teams in the league are based in the eastern half of the US, ranging all the way from New England and upstate New York down to the southern states and the Gulf of Mexico.

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: FPHL

"My experience in the FPHL was positive. You're obviously not making a ton pay wise, but the city I played in down South was big on their minor hockey. Our fans packed our barn every night and the locals treated us like pros at the rink and at any local establishment in town from restaurants to golf courses."

Number of Teams in American Hockey League: 32

Number of Teams in FPHL: 14

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.

Caliber of Players and Imports in FPHL

The skill level of players and caliber of play in the FPHL is much better than a lot of people realize. Similar to the minor leagues above it (SP, Coast), the league has gotten better in recent years skillswise too. Being that it's one of the lowest tiers of professional hockey, some people assume that anyone can play here. Almost all players who play in the Fed today have spent some time prior in juniors, college (NCAA, USports, ACHA, etc), or minor pro either in North America or Europe. There's always an exception or 2 to this with an out of nowhere walk-on, a 4th line fighter, etc, but for the most part players are not cutting it here unless they've also played in one of the places we listed above prior to playing here.

AHL vs FPHL

How would you compare/contrast AHL and FPHL?

Leagues At A Glance

AHL