ECHL vs Hockeytvåan- Sweden Division 2

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and Hockeytvåan- Sweden Division 2?

The ECHL is a much stronger league overall than Hockeytvåan which is the 4th tier of Sweden. We've seen a couple players with some ECHL experience play in this tier in Sweden, but the overall level isn't at the same bar as the ECHL.

ECHL vs Hockeytvåan- Sweden Division 2 comparison

We have scouted games on the ground in each of these two varying levels. Our insights come heavily from this.

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.

Hockeytvåan- Sweden Division 2

Hockeytvåan (Sweden Division 2) is the fourth level of ice hockey in Sweden.

Location: North America

Location: Sweden

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 Hockeytvåan

Hockeytvåan is Sweden’s fourth-tier league. The league is large in number of teams with many teams being based in smaller cities/regions. Teams carry many local Swedish players and clubs in the league often carry a number of imports too at this level.

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: Hockeytvåan

"Competing here in Hockeytvåan is a great way to continue playing at a competitive level closer to home, while balancing other commitments and family."

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in Hockeytvåan: 86

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 Hockeytvåan- Sweden Division 2

With a bit smaller budgets that the top Swedish leagues for most teams, rosters naturally are composed with many local Swedish players who live in the region. Many are still quality ice hockey players with some spending time at the higher tiers. A number of Division 2 teams have a bit larger budgets and sponsors. These clubs often bring over numerous import players each season to bring added skill & experience to their club.