ECHL vs Metal Ligaen

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and Metal Ligaen?

These two leagues are of similar caliber, but two different playing styles. The ECHL is more physical and tough whereas Metal Ligaen is more of a finesse/pass first/skill game type of league. In Metal Ligaen as in many European leagues, you'll find a number of imports who previously played in the coast.

Our team scouts games in each of these leagues. Our understanding of North American and Danish hockey comes from this along with conversations with players.

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.

Metal Ligaen

Metal Ligaen is the top professional ice hockey league in all of Denmark, showcasing the country's top talent as well as various import players.

Location: North America

Location: Denmark

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 Metal Ligaen

Metal Ligaen, Denmark’s top hockey league, was founded back in 1954. The league attracts the top domestic talent as well as top imports which makes the league even more competitive.

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: Metal Ligaen

"Metal Ligaen offers a fast-paced and challenging environment, perfect for developing as a player." – Morten Green

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in Metal Ligaen: 9

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.