NHL vs USHL

How would you compare/contrast NHL and USHL?

You're comparing two leagues in different tiers (pro vs junior). The NHL is the top league globally and the USHL is the top US junior league. A small number of the very best USHL players have played in the league in their hockey path up to the NHL.

We've scouted these leagues for many years and former players of ours have played in each at different times in their careers.

NHL

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

USHL

The USHL is the top junior ice hockey league in the United States. The league has helped produce hundreds of NHL and even more NCAA and professional players.

Location: North America

Location: United States

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.

Skill Level in USHL

The USHL, a Tier I junior hockey league, features 16 teams across the middle of the United States. Founded back in 1947, the league today serves as a top developmental path to NCAA and pro hockey and is unanimously considered the top junior league in the US.

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."

Player Perspective: USHL

"Playing in the USHL played an instrumental role in my development on the ice and as a person. I credit much of my success later in NCAA and now pro to my years in junior."

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Number of Teams in USHL: 16

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.

Caliber of Players and Imports in USHL

USHL rosters include many of the top junior players in the world. There's a reason it's the top junior tier in the United States. An impressive amount of USHL players go on to play NCAA on scholarships, the pros (ECHL/AHL/Europe), and eventually the NHL for the very best alumni. The USHL is their junior proving grounds to compete while developing their game for the next level. To be an import in the USHL, you also have to be a top level junior player prior to playing here.