NHL vs Alps Hockey League

How would you compare/contrast NHL and Alps Hockey League?

Head to head, the NHL is a stronger league. A number of ex-NHLers have played in Alps League though on a few different teams which has brought up the level of play here.

Partners on our team have regularly scouted both of these leagues for numerous years.

NHL

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

Alps Hockey League

The Alps Hockey League is a regional professional hockey league in the south of Europe, with teams spread across Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia.

Location: North America

Location: Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia

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 Alps Hockey League

Founded in 2016, the Alps Hockey League features teams across Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia. The level of hockey on the ice is high quality and off the ice, the majority of the leagues clubs continue to thrive and be financially stable.

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: Alps Hockey League

"It’s a great league to play in. The import players that each team carries bring another level of experience and you know who they are on opposing rosters."

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Number of Teams in Alps Hockey League: 13

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 Alps Hockey League

Rosters are largely composed of local players from each designated country (Italy, Austria, etc). The bulk of imports have strong prior playing backgrounds in NCAA/USports, the minor pro leagues in North America, or comparable European leagues.