ECHL vs EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League?

These two leagues are quite similar. You'll see this in that many quality ex-ECHL players go on to play in the ECHL during their pro careers and produce similarly. In terms of style of play, they are both physical leagues with a number of players that can fight on most every team.

ECHL vs EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League comparison

Our team scouts each of these leagues every year. This paired with our ongoing conversations with players forms our understanding on the levels.

ECHL

The ECHL is a minor professional ice hockey league. It is North America's 3rd highest level of pro hockey sitting under the AHL and NHL.

EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) is the premier professional hockey league in the United Kingdom, featuring teams from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Location: North America

Location: United Kingdom

Skill Level in ECHL

The ECHL is the main AA professional ice hockey league in North America. As the 3rd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, it sits directly under the AHL and above the SPHL. The far majority of ECHL clubs have direct affiliations with NHL clubs and it's a big development league for players aiming to move up the pro ranks to the AHL and NHL.

Skill Level in EIHL

Founded back in 2003, the EIHL is the top-level professional hockey league in the UK. Of all the leagues in Europe, the EIHL is one of the toughest physically and resembles much more of a North American style of play due primarily to the fact that most clubs carry a variety of experienced N. American imports each season.

Player Perspective: ECHL

"Playing in the Coast was important for my career coming out of college. My time grinding here in the league helped me further develop my game and to mature as I prepared for that next level of pro. That jump may not have been possible without my experience here."

Player Perspective: EIHL

"As an import, the EIHL was my favorite place to play throughout my pro career. The tough brand of hockey is one I was accustomed to back home in the US. Fans across the league are second to none."

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in EIHL: 10

Caliber of Players and Imports in ECHL

Skill level of ECHL players is quite high, with the league only getting more skilled each year as more NHL/AHL clubs fill rosters here with up and coming prospects. A healthy percentage of ECHL rosters are filled with promising young players who have hopes to step up to the A and National league. You also have a number of seasoned veterans who possess many games in the ECHL, AHL, and a few who've had some cups of coffee in The Show (NHL). If you're undrafted and not a top major junior, NCAA, USports, or elite European player coming in, you'll have a tough time cracking a lineup here.

Caliber of Players and Imports in EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

For many years, the EIHL has attracted quality import players from North America and other parts of Europe. Look at most rosters and you'll find imports with a mix of NHL/AHL/ECHL (or European elite equivalent) playing experience. This alongside the top UK players has continued to elevate the caliber of play in the league to where it is today.