SHL vs DEL2

How would you compare/contrast SHL and DEL2?

The SHL and DEL2 are both strong leagues. Head to head, SHL takes the nod as it's one of the top leagues in all of Europe. In order to play in either league, you need to be at solid level of hockey. These leagues differ in that the style of play in Sweden is more skating/skilled play and DEL2 resembles a slightly more North American style of hockey with skill and physicality.

We've had a number players who've played matches in each of these leagues. Additionally, our partners on the ground here have knowledge and deep insights on each respective level.

SHL

The SHL (Swedish Hockey League) is the top ice hockey league in all of Sweden.

DEL2

DEL2 is the second-tier professional ice hockey league in Germany, acting as a bridge between the Oberliga and the DEL.

Location: Sweden

Location: Germany

Skill Level in SHL

The Swedish Hockey League is one of the premier ice hockey leagues in the world following the NHL and maybe KHL, AHL.

Skill Level in DEL2

DEL2 serves as Germany’s second-tier league, featuring 14 teams. It provides a vital pathway for players and teams aspiring to compete at the DEL level.

Player Perspective: SHL

"The SHL is the real deal. After my playing career in the AHL which included a couple dozen games up in the National (NHL), I decided to move over to Europe to finish out my playing career. My wife and I wanted to experience a new place while I kept playing so the timing was perfect. The skill and speed of the game in Sweden was up there with any league and I greatly enjoyed my two seasons there."

Player Perspective: DEL2

"Playing in DEL2 was instrumental in my growth, providing the right level of competition." – Felix Schütz

Number of Teams in SHL: 14

Number of Teams in DEL2: 14

Caliber of Players and Imports in SHL

The skill level of players in the SHL is extremely high. Only the top-tier players from junior programs and lower divisions make it to the top league in Sweden. In terms of imports, you'll need to either be a top NCAA D1 player or spend significant time in the pros playing well in the ECHL up to the AHL/NHL level to cut it in the Swedish Hockey League. If you're based in Europe, you better be ripping up numbers to attract team attention here. We've heard of a number of NHL veterans who came over at the tail ends of their careers and struggled to keep up with the fast pace. There's a reason it's considered one of the best leagues in all of Europe.

Caliber of Players and Imports in DEL2

The level of play in DEL2 is solid and it's a strong 2nd league. Look at most imports on team rosters here and you'll find some great playing resumes. Most teams are comprised of quality German players and a number of top import veterans to really bolster their rosters.