SHL stands for the Swedish Hockey League, which is the highest level of professional ice hockey in Sweden. The league consists of 14 teams that play against each other in a series of matches to determine the best teams that will compete in the SC playoffs.

The history of the Swedish Hockey League

The Swedish Hockey League, or SHL, was founded in 1922 and has since grown to become one of the most prestigious ice hockey leagues in the world. The league consists of 14 teams, all based in Sweden, and each season runs from September to April. The SHL is known for producing some of the best ice hockey players in the worldmany of whom have gone on to play in the National Hockey League (NHL) in North America.

The format of SHL

Each team in the SHL plays 52 games during the regular season, with each game providing the opportunity to earn points based on the outcome. The eight best teams at the end of the regular season advance to the SC playoffs, while the two worst teams risk being relegated to the HockeyAllsvenskan, Sweden's second highest league.

Big teams and players in the SHL

Some of the most prominent teams in the SHL include Färjestad BK, Frölunda HC and Djurgårdens IF. These teams all have a long history of success in the league and have produced many outstanding players. Some of the most famous players to have come from the SHL include Henrik Lundqvist, Peter Forsberg and Mats Sundinall have had distinguished careers in the NHL after starting in the SHL.

The importance of the SHL for Swedish ice hockey

The SHL plays a central role in the development of Swedish ice hockey. The league provides a platform for young Swedish players to develop their skills and compete at a high level. In addition, the SHL gives Swedish ice hockey fans the chance to see top-quality ice hockey at home.