SHL vs WHL

The SHL (Swedish Hockey League) is the top professional level in Sweden. The WHL is the top major junior league based out West in North America. These leagues compare in that in order to play here, you need to be a high quality player. They differ in that one is a pro league and the other is major junior so the avergae age across rosters will be younger in the WHL with players between 16-20.

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.