Ice hockey leagues that punters need to know about.
Bettors' interest in ice hockey has grown a lot in recent years and, with that in mind, this article was prepared with the four most important leagues in the sport, where bettors can find the best opportunities.
National Hockey League (NHL)
The National Hockey League (NHL) is the premier professional ice hockey league in North America and the largest and most prestigious in the world. Founded in 1917, the NHL is comprised of 32 teams, 24 from the United States and 7 from Canada. It is widely regarded as the most important and competitive ice hockey league.
The NHL regular season generally runs from October to April, followed by the playoffs, which culminate in the Stanley Cup, the league's most coveted trophy. During the regular season, each team plays a total of 82 games, 41 home and 41 away.
The NHL attracts some of the best ice hockey players in the world. The league is famous for its competitiveness, speed and technical ability. Many top international players, as well as North American-born talent, compete in the NHL, making it a global melting pot of talent.
Financially, the NHL is one of the most lucrative leagues in the sports world. The league has television contracts and sponsorship deals with a number of global companies and brands. In addition, ticket sales, licensed products and broadcasting rights contribute significantly to the NHL's revenues.
In short, the National Hockey League (NHL) is the most prestigious and competitive ice hockey league in North America and one of the largest in the world. With a loyal fan base, exciting games and an exceptional standard of play, the NHL remains a benchmark in world ice hockey.
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Kontinental Hockey League (KHL)
The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) is Russia's premier professional ice hockey league and one of the largest in Europe. Founded in 2008, the KHL has quickly established itself as a top-level competition, attracting talented players from around the world.
The KHL is composed of 24 ice hockey teams, most of which are based in Russia. In addition, the league also includes clubs from other countries, such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Slovakia and China. The KHL regular season usually lasts from August to March, followed by the playoffs.
Financially, the KHL is one of the most lucrative leagues in the ice hockey world. Like the North American league, it attracts significant corporate and brand sponsorship, as well as generating substantial revenue from ticket sales, broadcasting rights and merchandising.
The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) is a highly competitive and popular ice hockey league with an enthusiastic fan base and a high standard of play. The league brings together talented players from many different countries and aims to strengthen its international presence. The KHL plays an important role in the development of ice hockey in Russia and in promoting the sport in other participating countries.
Swedish Hockey League (SHL)
The Swedish Hockey League (SHL), formerly known as Elitserien, is Sweden's premier professional ice hockey league. Founded in 1922, the SHL is considered one of the best ice hockey leagues in Europe.
The SHL consists of 14 teams that compete annually for the title. The regular season usually runs from September to March, followed by the playoffs. During the regular season, each club plays a total of 52 games, 26 home and 26 away.
The SHL also has a significant international presence. The league is part of the Champions Hockey League, a European competition that brings together teams from several of Europe's top leagues. This gives Swedish clubs additional opportunities to play against opponents from other countries and to increase their international visibility.
In short, the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) is a highly competitive and world-famous ice hockey league with a passionate fan base and a high standard of play.
Finnish Liiga
The Finnish Liiga, also known as the SM-liiga, is Finland's premier professional ice hockey league. Founded in 1928, the Liiga is considered one of the best leagues in Europe and has a rich tradition in the sport.
The Liiga consists of 15 teams that compete annually for the title. The regular season usually runs from September to March, followed by the playoffs. During the regular season, each team plays a total of 60 matches.
The Liiga also has a notable international presence. It is part of the Champions Hockey League, which gives Finnish teams additional opportunities to play against opponents from different countries and increase their international visibility.
The Finnish Liiga is therefore a very competitive and respected ice hockey league. The standard of play is high and the fans are very passionate.
Although there are other strong ice hockey leagues around the world, the four leagues presented above are undoubtedly the most powerful, famous, profitable and growing and offer many interesting opportunities for bettors of all levels.
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✅ What are the major ice hockey leagues in the world?
