NHL vs NCAA D3

How would you compare/contrast NHL and NCAA Division 3 (Men's)?

The NHL head to head is a much higher level than NCAA D3 in that it's the top pro league worldwide and NCAA D3 is college level. At each level, you'll find skilled hockey players but at different stages of hockey. A few rare NCAA D3 players have went on to the NHL but it's much more common that top D3 players go on to play professionally in the minor league or over in Europe.

We've helped work with players who've previously played in each league. We've also spoken with current players in each for additional insights.

NHL

The NHL (National Hockey League) is the top ice hockey league in the world with 32 teams spanning North America.

NCAA Division 3 (Men's)

NCAA Division 3 Men’s Hockey is a competitive collegiate level of ice hockey in the United States, sitting below NCAA Division 1.

Location: North America

Location: United States

Skill Level in NHL

The NHL (National Hockey League) is considered the top ice hockey league in the world. The league is currently made up of 32 teams spanning North America in both the United States and Canada.

Skill Level in NCAA Division 3 (Men's)

NCAA Division 3 Men’s Hockey is a competitive collegiate level of ice hockey in the United States, sitting below NCAA Division 1. Alongside the quality level of hockey, NCAA D3 has a strong emphasis on academics and athletics. The majority of players at this level previously played high level juniors, prep school, and youth hockey levels for many years prior to moving into D3 Hockey.

Player Perspective: NHL

"Playing in the NHL is just incredible. The level of play, depth of every single roster, and the pace of the game today here is unparalleled. There's a reason it is the best league in the world."

Player Perspective: NCAA Division 3 (Men's)

"Playing D3 Hockey gave me the best of both worlds. I was able to play close to home and earn my degree all while playing at a high level. I credit my ability to play pro after college to the development I gained here."

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Number of Teams in NCAA Division 3 (Men's): 93

Caliber of Players and Imports in NHL

The caliber of play you need to play in the NHL is second to none. Each roster is filled with world class players ranging from young players to best in class veterans who've solidified themselves in the world's top league. The best players around the world from North America to Europe all vie to make it to the NHL.

Caliber of Players and Imports in NCAA Division 3 (Men's)

The level of play is quite high and it's quite competitive (especially in the top conferences- ex: SUNYAC). Look at most any NCAA D3 men's hockey roster and you'll find a lineup of players who all have either junior, prep school, or top level youth playing experience prior to them playing at the NCAA level. In recent years, more players coming out of the level are moving on to play professional both in N America and Europe after finishing school.