SHL vs NHL

How would you compare/contrast SHL and NHL?

The NHL is the top ranked league globally. SHL is the top league in Sweden and is considered by many to be a top 5 league in the world. Even though the NHL is the premier league and takes the edge, the SHL is right up there caliber wise. Many of the best players in Sweden, Europe, and a combination of ex AHL/NHL imports. Both leagues are highly skilled with the NHL being a bit more physical and SHL being a bit more of a European style skilled league with lots of skating.

Our insights stem from years of scouting in these elite leagues on each side of the pond, along with discussions with current and former players who have competed in each.

SHL

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

NHL

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

Location: Sweden

Location: North America

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 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.

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: 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."

Number of Teams in SHL: 14

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

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 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.