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.
KHL
The KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) is the top professional ice hockey league in Russia.
Location: Primarily Russia + Belarus, Kazakstan, & China
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 KHL (Kontinental Hockey League)
The KHL is not only the top league in Russia, but it is widely considered to be one of the best leagues in the world after the NHL. The leagues clubs roster best in class Russian players as well as some of the most elite import players from around the globe.
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: KHL (Kontinental Hockey League)
"The travel schedule in season is demanding and long, especially in the heart of winter. Until you're here, I don't think most people realize how long it takes to fly from one side of Russia to the other. The level of hockey is top notch. You hear varied perspectives from players who've spent time there, but my personal time as an import in the KHL was positive all around. Our team treated us well in my full season there."
Number of Teams in ECHL: 28
Number of Teams in KHL (Kontinental Hockey League): 23