EIHL vs NHL

How would you compare/contrast EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League and NHL?

The NHL is the #1 league in the world- no one is disputing that. The level of hockey, caliber, and depth is higher in the NHL than the EIHL. Due to the EIHL being one of the most common leagues in Europe for high quality imports to play in, a number of veteran players here possess prior experience playing pro in North America, predominantly in the AHL/ECHL. You will find a number of EIHL players with some NHL games played on their resumes. This doesn't equate to their whole team being at the NHL level, it simply shows that this subset of players once played at the highest level in all of hockey. Another area where the two leagues are slightly similar is in their style of play. Whereas much of European hockey is more finesse, the EIHL is one of the tougher EU leagues with physicality, hard nosed hockey, and fighting.

We've worked with hockey players with experience playing in each of these respective leagues (many of them both). Our insights derive from this as well as current conversations with scouts, staff, and current players.

EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) is the premier professional hockey league in the United Kingdom, featuring teams from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

NHL

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

Location: United Kingdom

Location: North America

Skill Level in EIHL

Founded back in 2003, the EIHL is the top-level professional hockey league in the UK. Of all the leagues in Europe, the EIHL is one of the toughest physically and resembles much more of a North American style of play due primarily to the fact that most clubs carry a variety of experienced N. American imports each season.

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: EIHL

"As an import, the EIHL was my favorite place to play throughout my pro career. The tough brand of hockey is one I was accustomed to back home in the US. Fans across the league are second to none."

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 EIHL: 10

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Caliber of Players and Imports in EIHL- Elite Ice Hockey League

For many years, the EIHL has attracted quality import players from North America and other parts of Europe. Look at most rosters and you'll find imports with a mix of NHL/AHL/ECHL (or European elite equivalent) playing experience. This alongside the top UK players has continued to elevate the caliber of play in the league to where it is today.

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.