NHL vs HockeyEttan- Sweden Divison 1

How would you compare/contrast NHL and HockeyEttan- Sweden Divison 1?

The NHL is much stronger than Sweden's third tier. One league is top of class worldwide whereas the other is primarily a strong developmental league in Sweden with a small number of imports on each team.

NHL vs HockeyEttan- Sweden Divison 1 comparison

Our partners have scouted each of these leagues for years. We also talked with players/staff to get added insight.

NHL

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

HockeyEttan- Sweden Divison 1

HockeyEttan, also known as Sweden Division 1, is the third tier of ice hockey in Sweden.

Location: North America

Location: Sweden

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 HockeyEttan

HockeyEttan is Sweden’s third-tier league, with a few dozen teams divided regionally from the South near Stockholm up to the North near the start of the Arctic Circle. HockeyEttan acts both as a developmental league for young players and a majority of teams also roster several imports to further strengthen their rosters each season.

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: HockeyEttan

"HockeyEttan provided the perfect environment for me to hone my skills and gain exposure. Our team had a number of veteran players who I learned a great deal from."

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Number of Teams in HockeyEttan: 36

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 HockeyEttan- Sweden Divison 1

sweden division 1 hockeyettan level of play photo

For third tier leagues in Europe, it's one of the very best due to how strong Sweden is as a hockey country overall. Rosters here are comprised of up and coming talent aiming to move up, a handful of experience imports, and experienced Swedish players who continue playing locally at the Sweden Division 1 level.