HockeyEttan- Sweden Divison 1 vs NIHL

HockeyEttan is the third highest level in Sweden whereas the NIHL is the second highest in the UK. With Sweden being one of the strongest hockey countries in the world, HockeyEttan sits as a bit stronger league overall than NIHL. You’ll find some quality hockey and some impressive import resumes based on the level in NIHL, but the overall local depth and skill of players in Sweden is higher. Budgets across these leagues can vary greatly, but a number of clubs in each league can compensate imports well whereas local players may not be making as much if they play locally. NIHL is a more physical league as well as that is the breed of hockey the UK hockey system has adopted from N American hockey over the seasons.

The level of hockey isn't as high as the EIHL (top level), but there are some solid players across the league. Rosters are built up primarily with younger British players and some teams dedicate a portion of the clubs budget on bringing top imports over to greatly strengthen their teams and carry the load (veteran presence, point production, etc).