DEL vs Oberliga

del hockey logo
oberliga ice hockey logo

How would you compare/contrast DEL and Oberliga?

DEL is a much higher tier than Oberliga, but that's not to say Oberliga isn't strong. DEL clubs can hold their own versus NHL clubs. Oberliga still carries quality players, but from top to bottom of rosters, it's a lower level than DEL.
DEL vs Oberliga comparison
Having scouted and worked with players who've played in each league, we know both leagues well in terms of the levels.
WANT TO PLAY AT THE NEXT LEVEL? CLICK HERE

Leagues At A Glance

del hockey logo
oberliga ice hockey logo

DEL

The Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) is Germany's top-tier professional ice hockey league, known for its high level of play and strong fan base.

Oberliga

Oberliga is the third highest tier of ice hockey in all of Germany, with clubs carrying a mix of talented locals and veteran imports.

Location: Germany

Location: Germany

Skill Level in DEL

Founded in 1994, the DEL is Germany’s premier ice hockey league, featuring 14 teams. It attracts both domestic and international players, offering a highly competitive environment.

Skill Level in Oberliga

Oberliga is Germany’s third highest tier hockey league with a couple dozen teams spread across the country. Most clubs roster a bulk of talented local players and a small subset of experienced imports.

Player Perspective: DEL

"Playing in the DEL in Germany was my favorite league to play in overseas as an import. The level of play was high, plus the fanbases at most arenas make the environment second to none."

Player Perspective: Oberliga

"Oberliga is a great league to play in and the level of hockey is good.Playing in front of a few thousand fans each night is exactly what you want as an import who's playing overseas."

Number of Teams in DEL: 14

Number of Teams in Oberliga: 28

Caliber of Players and Imports in DEL

del hockey level of players
The level of players in DEL is high. In years past, DEL clubs have held their own in exhibition games versus NHL clubs. Rosters are made up of a blend of German nationals and a select number of international imports who range from ex-AHL/NHL players and top level European players. This added strength of imports throughout the league definitely contributes to the high skill level combined with strong German players.

Caliber of Players and Imports in Oberliga

oberliga caliber of hockey
The majority of players in Oberliga are German players, but the majority of teams all carry a number of veteran imports that possess solid resumes. The level of play in Oberliga continues to strengthen based on the level of imports paired with the growth of hockey increasing local talent in Germany.
WANT TO PLAY AT THE NEXT LEVEL? CLICK HERE

More League Comparisons