Junior Hockey Landscape by Mole Hockey

Disclaimer: While these insights are based on extensive experience and research, they reflect my personal opinions and are not intended to disparage any representatives, teams, or leagues. MOLE Hockey supports the development and exposure of players across all levels and programs.

North American junior hockey is a vast and often confusing landscape. While it’s impossible to cover everything in one article, I aim to provide a clear summary to help players and families better understand the structure and opportunities. For additional details, you can explore the "Media Archive" section for related HTP articles.

United States Junior Hockey: Tier 1, 2, and 3

Tier 1:

-United States Hockey League (USHL)

Tier 2:

-North American Hockey League (NAHL)

-National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC)

Tier 3:

-Eastern Hockey League (EHL)

-North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL)

-United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL)

Key Insights

Tier 1: The USHL sits alone at the top of the U.S. junior hockey pyramid. This is beneficial for players, as it provides a clear and unified path for elite development. Tier 1 serves as the primary feeder to NCAA Division 1 and the NHL.

Tier 2: The NAHL and NCDC are competitive Tier 2 leagues that cater to slightly different player demographics.

The NAHL typically attracts older, more physically primed and skill developed players (average age ~19) emphasizing a physical, grinding style of play.

The NCDC offers a platform for younger, skilled players (~18 years old), often serving as a stepping stone to the USHL, BCHL, or NCAA. Its lack of import limits creates opportunities for foreign talent.

Both leagues generate strong NCAA Division 1/3 commitments and geographically favor their primary regions: the NAHL in the Midwest and the NCDC on the East Coast. A U.S. Tier 2 National Championship would add value to both leagues, enhancing player exposure and competition.

Tier 3: Tier 3 hockey in the U.S. is oversaturated and inconsistent. While some programs (e.g., top EHL teams) have a proven track record of advancing players to NCAA Division 3 or Tier 2 juniors, many others fall short of providing value for their cost (~$13,000). For non-age-out players, opportunities in 18UAAA or Prep School hockey are often better investments. Prep programs, especially with post-graduate options (19 year olds), provide a strong pathway to Tier 2 juniors or direct NCAA placement.

Canadian Junior Hockey: Tier 1, 2, and 3

Tier 1:

-Canadian Hockey League (CHL) (WHL, OHL, QMJHL)

-British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL)

Tier 2:

-Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL)

(KIJHL, MJHL, SJHL, SIJHL, NOJHL, OJHL, CCHL, QJHL, MJAHL)

Tier 3:

-Junior B Leagues (GOJHL, EOJHL, PJHL, VIJHL, etc.)

Key Insights

Tier 1: The CHL is Canada’s premier development league, producing top NHL talent and showcasing elite players from across provinces and limited imports. However, the BCHL offers an alternative for players seeking a Tier 1 experience while maintaining NCAA eligibility. With recent NCAA rule changes allowing CHL players eligibility, competition between the CHL and BCHL is expected to intensify, including potential expansions into U.S. markets.

Tier 2: The CJHL is a structured umbrella of Tier 2 leagues offering a clear path to the NCAA and the NHL. The Centennial Cup provides a national championship platform, bringing top talent together for increased scouting exposure. The CJHL's strength lies in its ability to showcase players from across the country, with a proven track record of NCAA Division 1 commitments and NHL draft selections. This level can be considered Canada's "equivalent" to the NAHL/NCDC.

Tier 3: Unlike in the U.S., Canadian Tier 3 hockey ("Junior B") has a strong foothold, particularly in smaller markets. Players as young as 17 often start their junior careers at this level, with many advancing to higher tiers and even the NHL. The GOJHL is a standout example, rivaling some CJHL Tier 2 leagues in quality and providing a proven platform for NCAA and OHL advancement.

Final Thoughts

Both the U.S. and Canadian junior hockey systems have their strengths and challenges. Understanding the landscape is crucial for players and families navigating their options. From development to exposure, the right pathway depends on each player’s goals and abilities.

At MOLE Hockey, we’re committed to guiding players toward the opportunities that align with their aspirations. For more personalized insights, don’t hesitate to reach out or explore our additional resources.

-David Dew

MOLE Hockey President