ECHL vs Norwegian First Division

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and Norwegian First Division?

The ECHL sits at a much higher caliber than Norway's second tier. The majority of ECHL teams have diect affiliations with AHL/NHL clubs above them who loan down many players, Norwegian First Division has players with top league experience paired with up and coming players, but the level isn't as high as it is in the ECHL.

ECHL vs Norwegian First Division comparison

Our team scouts matches in both of these leagues. Our analysis comes from our partners knowledge on the ground paired with what players who play in each tell us.

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.

Norwegian First Division

Norway's First Division is the second-tier ice hockey league in the country, serving heavily as a competitive developmental league.

Location: North America

Location: Norway

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 Norwegian First Division

The Norwegian First Division serves as the second tier of ice hockey in all of Norway, with many teams focused on developing players for the top-tier EliteHockey Ligaen. A number of clubs will carry a couple imports as top players.

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: Norwegian First Division

"It’s a good league for younger Norwegian players and there are also few import and veteran guys that are quite skilled."

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in Norwegian First Division: 8

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.