NHL vs EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway)

How would you compare/contrast NHL and EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway)?

The NHL is at a higher level than Norway's top league. Norway as a hockey country holds up pretty well in comparison to it's population, but it's not at the level the NHL is. A few clubs in Norway have import players with impressive resumes and NHL games played in their playing experience.

NHL vs EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway) comparison

Our agency team has scouted games in each of these leagues for many years. We've also had players spend time in each.

NHL

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

EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway)

EliteHockey Ligaen is Norway's premier professional ice hockey league. The league was founded in 1934

Location: North America

Location: Norway

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 EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway)

The EliteHockey Ligaen is the highest level of ice hockey in Norway, featuring teams and a combination of top domestic talent and highly skilled international import players.

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: EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway)

"The level of play is a great to develop and pushed my game as I moved over to European hockey. Away from the arena, Norwegian life is as good as it gets."

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Number of Teams in EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway): 10

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 EliteHockey Ligaen (Norway)

Norwegian players dominate rosters, but a few imports are key contributors on most clubs. Those imports typically have prior playing experience in ECHL/AHL, NCAA, or other mid-tier European leagues. Teams are selective about signing imports with strong resumes.