ECHL vs WHL

How would you compare/contrast ECHL and ?

The coast is a pro league whereas the W is major junior league so they're vary different in that sense. In comparison, you'll see a number of ex-WHL players in the ECHL a few years after junior for many that play in the pros. Both leagues are quality in their own respect and you need to be a skilled player to play in either level.
ECHL vs WHL comparison
Our team and partners scout games each season in these two leagues. Our insights heavily come from this first hand experience.

Leagues At A Glance

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.

Location: North America

Location:

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

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:

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Number of Teams in :

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

More League Comparisons