EIHL VS ECHL

How would you compare/contrast EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League and ECHL?

Both the EIHL and ECHL are solid pro leagues in their own right. The ECHL sits just two levels below the NHL and has a broader reach in terms of players aiming to make it up to the NHL via ECHL/AHL pathways. The EIHL is the top league in the UK and is quite strong in terms of European leagues. Head to head, the ECHL is a bit younger in average age. Both leagues are quite physical with the EIHL having a playing style that's quite similar to what you'd expect in North America (hits, fighting, etc).

We've scouted both leagues and seen a number of players especially move from the ECHL to EIHL. Our understanding on each leagues level derives from this work.

EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) is the premier professional hockey league in the United Kingdom, featuring teams from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

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: United Kingdom

Location: North America

Skill Level in EIHL

Founded back in 2003, the EIHL is the top-level professional hockey league in the UK. Of all the leagues in Europe, the EIHL is one of the toughest physically and resembles much more of a North American style of play due primarily to the fact that most clubs carry a variety of experienced N. American imports each season.

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.

Player Perspective: EIHL

"As an import, the EIHL was my favorite place to play throughout my pro career. The tough brand of hockey is one I was accustomed to back home in the US. Fans across the league are second to none."

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."

Number of Teams in EIHL: 10

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Caliber of Players and Imports in EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

For many years, the EIHL has attracted quality import players from North America and other parts of Europe. Look at most rosters and you'll find imports with a mix of NHL/AHL/ECHL (or European elite equivalent) playing experience. This alongside the top UK players has continued to elevate the caliber of play in the league to where it is today.

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.