SPHL vs ECHL

How would you compare/contrast SPHL and ECHL?

Both leagues compare in the sense that they are both minor professional leagues that often serve as feeder systems to the leagues above them (more so the ECHL). The ECHL sits one level higher than the SPHL. Therefore, the overall level of players here, the caliber, and skill level will be higher. Looking at both ECHL and SPHL rosters, you'll find a portion of players who've spent some time in both leagues at some point. Today, you'll see more and more drafted players spend initial time in the ECHL (and AHL) via those affiliations, especially for goalies and younger prospects in order for them to develop their game at the pro level. At the SPHL, you have a healthy mix of guys grinding it in the minors with other players on the border of being ECHL players but maybe choosing to play in the SPHL for setup/stability. In all, both leagues have gotten stronger over the past decade (and we see this trend continuing).

We've scouted a few hundred ice hockey matches across each of these leagues. Our analysis is based on this. We've also talked with several players and staff (current/former) in each league for additional insights.

SPHL

The SPHL is a minor professional ice hockey league based in the United States.

ECHL

The ECHL is a minor professional ice hockey league. It is North America's 3rd highest level of pro hockey sitting under the AHL and NHL.

Location: United States

Location: North America

Skill Level in SPHL

The SPHL is a minor professional hockey league in North America. As the 4rd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, it sits below the ECHL and above the FPHL. The league was founded in 2004 with the majority of teams being based in the Southeastern portion of the United States.

Skill Level in ECHL

The ECHL is the main AA professional ice hockey league in North America. As the 3rd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, it sits directly under the AHL and above the SPHL. The far majority of ECHL clubs have direct affiliations with NHL clubs and it's a big development league for players aiming to move up the pro ranks to the AHL and NHL.

Player Perspective: SPHL

"Lifestyle wise, there are some good places to play in the SP. During my time in Pensacola and Macon, I enjoyed the level of play. Both fan bases were stellar along with the quality of living outside the arena makes it easier to grind in the minors here- golfing after practice, dining out, and warm weather during the winter!"

Player Perspective: ECHL

"Playing in the Coast was important for my career coming out of college. My time grinding here in the league helped me further develop my game and to mature as I prepared for that next level of pro. That jump may not have been possible without my experience here."

Number of Teams in SPHL: 10

Number of Teams in ECHL: 28

Caliber of Players and Imports in SPHL

The skill level and ability of SPHL players continues to get higher every year. Years back, most guys coming out of the NCAA or even top junior clubs could cut it in the SPHL. Today, the landscape is more competitive with more college and junior players vying to continue playing at the next level. The far majority of SPHL rosters sport players with a mix of NCAA (D1 to D3), USports, high-end junior, or equivalent experience on their resume prior to them playing here. There's always a couple exceptions, but as mentioned already the bar is higher. The caliber of players across the league and roster depth is a bit lower than the ECHL above it and the FPHL below it.

Caliber of Players and Imports in ECHL

Skill level of ECHL players is quite high, with the league only getting more skilled each year as more NHL/AHL clubs fill rosters here with up and coming prospects. A healthy percentage of ECHL rosters are filled with promising young players who have hopes to step up to the A and National league. You also have a number of seasoned veterans who possess many games in the ECHL, AHL, and a few who've had some cups of coffee in The Show (NHL). If you're undrafted and not a top major junior, NCAA, USports, or elite European player coming in, you'll have a tough time cracking a lineup here.