AHL vs Swiss League

How would you compare/contrast AHL and Swiss League?

The AHL sits at a higher level than Switzerland's 2nd tier in Swiss League. Although it's a quality league in a good hockey country within Europe, it's not on the same caliber as the AHL is overall.

Our team has scouted both leagues for a number of years. We also have players who've played in each previously to understand the details well.

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.

Swiss League

The Swiss League is the second-tier professional ice hockey league in Switzerland, focusing on developing local talent and providing competitive play.

Location: North America

Location: Switzerland

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 Swiss League

The Swiss League serves as Switzerland’s second-tier hockey league, featuring 10 teams. It emphasizes player development and provides opportunities for promotion.

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: Swiss League

"Playing in the Swiss League was an important step in my career prior to the NHL. As a younger player still developing, it prepared me for top-level competition with much older and experienced players."

Number of Teams in American Hockey League: 32

Number of Teams in Swiss League: 10

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.