ECHL vs AHL

The ECHL and AHL are both important pro leagues in the North American hockey landscape. The ECHL, while competitive, is generally considered a developmental pro league that serves as a stepping stone for players aspiring to reach the AHL and NHL. The AHL is recognized as the top farm system (affiliate) for the NHL, showcasing a bit higher caliber of talent and a faster pace of play. Head to head, the AHL is obviously the stronger league in terms of overall skill and proximity to the NHL, but both leagues have direct NHL affiliations and they continue to get stronger each passing season due to the high quality of players in each league.

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.

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.