NHL vs NIHL

NIHL Hockey Logo

How would you compare/contrast and NIHL?

The NHL is in another category in relation to the NIHL. Whereas one is the top pro league, the NIHL is more geared as a developmental feeder league for the EIHL above it.
NHL vs NIHL comparison
Our partners have scouted both of these varying levels for many years.

Leagues At A Glance

NIHL Hockey Logo

NIHL

The National Ice Hockey League (NIHL) is a semi-professional ice hockey league in the United Kingdom.

Location:

Location: United Kingdom

Skill Level in

Skill Level in NIHL

The NIHL is the second highest level of ice hockey in the UK, sitting directly under the EIHL. The league operates as a semi-professional league with many local UK players and some top-tier imports mixed in.

Player Perspective:

Player Perspective: NIHL

"Playing in the NIHL allowed me to gain valuable experience and showcase my abilities as I was developing up to the pro level."

Number of Teams in :

Number of Teams in NIHL: 11

Caliber of Players and Imports in

Caliber of Players and Imports in NIHL

nihl caliber of hockey photo
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).

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