SPHL vs NHL

How would you compare/contrast SPHL and NHL?

The NHL is the top ice hockey league in the world. With it sitting three levels up (with the AHL and ECHL in between them), the NHL is a much higher level of professional hockey than the SPHL. You will find skilled players in each respective league in their own right, but at a different caliber across the board.

Our team has worked closely with hockey players in each of these respective leagues. Our insights for this article come from this alongside recent conversations with scouts, staff, and current pro players.

SPHL

The SPHL is a minor professional ice hockey league based in the United States.

NHL

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

Location: United States

Location: North America

Skill Level in SPHL

The SPHL is a minor professional hockey league in North America. As the 4rd highest level of pro ice hockey in North America, it sits below the ECHL and above the FPHL. The league was founded in 2004 with the majority of teams being based in the Southeastern portion of the United States.

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: SPHL

"Lifestyle wise, there are some good places to play in the SP. During my time in Pensacola and Macon, I enjoyed the level of play. Both fan bases were stellar along with the quality of living outside the arena makes it easier to grind in the minors here- golfing after practice, dining out, and warm weather during the winter!"

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 SPHL: 10

Number of Teams in NHL: 32

Caliber of Players and Imports in SPHL

The skill level and ability of SPHL players continues to get higher every year. Years back, most guys coming out of the NCAA or even top junior clubs could cut it in the SPHL. Today, the landscape is more competitive with more college and junior players vying to continue playing at the next level. The far majority of SPHL rosters sport players with a mix of NCAA (D1 to D3), USports, high-end junior, or equivalent experience on their resume prior to them playing here. There's always a couple exceptions, but as mentioned already the bar is higher. The caliber of players across the league and roster depth is a bit lower than the ECHL above it and the FPHL below it.

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.