ECHL vs Ligue Magnus

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and Ligue Magnus?

The ECHL sits just a tad higher than Ligue Magnus overall if we're comparing them head to head. With more and more NHL teams loaning drafted players to ECHL teams, this elevates the level of play. Although French hockey continues to get stronger and most teams have a couple top imports, the depth of rosters is slightly higher in the ECHL.

We've scouted matches in both leagues for many years. We've also had players play in each league so our insights come 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.

Ligue Magnus

Ligue Magnus is the top professional ice hockey league in France, known for its rich history and competitive play.

Location: North America

Location: France

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 Ligue Magnus

Ligue Magnus, founded in 1906, is France’s premier ice hockey league. With teams across the country, the league continues to thrive with rosters built around the top French players alongside top imports.

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: Ligue Magnus

"Playing in Magnus was a cool experience in my first season over as an import. I didn't speak much French at all my first season, but all my teammates, staff, and the community were welcoming to make me feel at home which meant a ton to me. The hockey was good and are fans always brought the energy at home and on the road!"

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in Ligue Magnus: 12

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.