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.
Erste Liga
Erste Liga is the top professional ice hockey league in Hungary and Romania.
Location: Hungary, Romania
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 Erste Liga
Erste Liga is the top ice hockey league in Hungary and Romania with teams spread across each country. The league offers a competitive level for both national players and imports alike who strengthen rosters. The league was previously called MOL Liga.
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: Erste Liga
"I didn't know what to expect when I came over t Hungary the first time from the US, but the league was a great place to play. Fans here are passionate and the different arenas can be exciting."
Number of Teams in ECHL: 28
Number of Teams in Erste Liga: 10