KHL vs NHL

How would you compare/contrast KHL and NHL?

The KHL and NHL are often considered two of the strongest leagues in the world (with the AHL sitting close to #2 alongside the KHL). The NHL is a bit stronger of a league especially in terms of depth across each roster from top to bottom. For example, a fourth liner on an NHL roster could very likely cut it in the K as an import, but a local 4th liner in the KHL probably wouldn't make the cut at the NHL level. Both leagues are full of world class talent and playing in either league is notable. If you were to match up a team from each league in an exhibition match head to head, you'd see a quite competitive match.

Our partners have scouted matches for years in each league so our analysis is based on this experience. In addition, we also spoke with several ex-players and staff members in each of the leagues for added insight/quotes.

KHL

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

NHL

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

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 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: 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: 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 KHL (Kontinental Hockey League): 23

Number of Teams in NHL: 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 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.