Liiga vs Asia League

How would you compare/contrast Liiga and Asia League?

Liiga is a higher caliber pro league than Asia League is. Unlike other EU leagues where there's exhibition games to compare, Asia League teams don't exhibition versus EU teams. Import wise, you'll find imports with similar resumes playing in both countries, but the level of hockey in Finland at the pro level is higher.

We have scouted each of these leagues for numerous years. We also spoke with multiple players in each to gather their broadened perspectives.

Liiga

Liiga is the top ice hockey league in Finland.

Asia League

Asia League Ice Hockey is the top league in East Asia with the teams based Japan and South Korea.

Location: Finland

Location: Japan, South Korea

Skill Level in Liiga

Liiga is the highest professional hockey league in Finland. Founded in 1975, the league has 15 clubs that span from the South near Helsinki all the way up to the Arctic Circle. It's considered by many to be one of the stronger leagues in Europe.

Skill Level in Asia League

Founded back in 2003, Asia League is the top professional ice hockey league in East Asia. Today, the majority of the teams are based in Japan with a presence in South Korea.

Player Perspective: Liiga

"Liiga is the perfect league to play in, especially as an import from North America who enjoys the physical play paired with skill. I'd agree that Liiga's caliber is up there with a number of the top leagues in Europe based on my experience also playing in Germany and Austria. The fans hear love their hockey.

Player Perspective: Asia League

"Playing in the Asia League here in Japan is unlike any other. I loved playing as an import in Europe in several places so coming to Japan added to my hockey bucket list. Towns here in Japan are clean, locals treat you well, and the level of hockey in good. Alongside hockey, you get a great life experience."

Number of Teams in Liiga: 15

Number of Teams in Asia League: 5

Caliber of Players and Imports in Liiga

Skill level of Liiga players is extremely high, with only the best Finnish players moving up to the highest league. For imports, teams expect players in Europe with strong resumes and players from North America with high-end ECHL/AHL experience on their resumes. Some even have NHL games played. This shows the strength of the league.