KHL vs AHL

How would you compare/contrast KHL and AHL?

Besides the NHL, both the KHL and AHL are two of the best hockey leagues in the entire world. With the AHL serving as the main affiliate for each NHL club above it, countless players with near NHL caliber talent play across the American Hockey League. With the KHL being a top league and the most prestigious league in Russia, the league possesses immense talent and skill level as well. The style of play is quite different in each league, but they are both great leagues in their own right. Interestingly, a number of North American players in the latter part of their hockey careers make the jump to the KHL to finish out their careers here or elsewhere in Europe.

Our team has scouted numerous games across each league so our analysis is based on our collective experience. We've also spoken with several ex-players and coaching staff members in each league for added insights.

KHL

The KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) is the top professional ice hockey league in Russia.

AHL

The AHL is a professional ice hockey league. It is North America's 2nd highest level of pro hockey sitting directly below the NHL.

Location: Primarily Russia + Belarus, Kazakstan, & China

Location: North America

Skill Level in KHL (Kontinental Hockey League)

The KHL is not only the top league in Russia, but it is widely considered to be one of the best leagues in the world after the NHL. The leagues clubs roster best in class Russian players as well as some of the most elite import players from around the globe.

Skill Level in American Hockey League

The AHL (American Hockey League) is a professional hockey league based in North America. It's the 2nd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, sitting only below the NHL. The level of play here is quite high with it just being a small step away from the best league in the world. Not only is it a highly skilled league and natural proving ground for aspiring NHL players, but it's one of the toughest and most physical leagues to play in across the board.

Player Perspective: KHL (Kontinental Hockey League)

"The travel schedule in season is demanding and long, especially in the heart of winter. Until you're here, I don't think most people realize how long it takes to fly from one side of Russia to the other. The level of hockey is top notch. You hear varied perspectives from players who've spent time there, but my personal time as an import in the KHL was positive all around. Our team treated us well in my full season there."

Player Perspective: American Hockey League

"The Jungle (AHL) is what a lot of us players call a meat grinder. During the season, the travel schedule is demanding too. Every team has guys that can play in the NHL and guys that can fight. Many have both. To me, it's a great way to gain experience and prepare for the NHL when you hopefully get that call."

Number of Teams in KHL (Kontinental Hockey League): 23

Number of Teams in American Hockey League: 32

Caliber of Players and Imports in KHL

The caliber of players in the KHL is set at a high bar. Many consider the KHL the 2nd or 3rd strongest leagues in the world following the National Hockey League. Due to this, the level of players matches this and only the most elite of Russian players ever make it to the K and stick for a duration. In terms of imports who play here, most every import here possesses strong resumes with either a few cups of coffee in the NHL, notable time in the AHL/ECHL where they were a top player there, or strong experience in another one of Europe's top leagues prior to transitioning here.

Caliber of Players and Imports in AHL

The skill level of AHL players is extremely high and it's the primary development league for the NHL. Each AHL roster is filled with talented up and coming players (most drafted, some undrafted) who aim to make their way up to the main NHL club one way. Many seasoned veterans have already put in the time in the AHL and some have spent quality time in the NHL but didn't stick for one reason or another (they're still exceptional players). You'll also find some top tier European players mixed in as well who are on various NHL contracts.