How Many Hockey Teams Are There Now?

Hockey is one of the most exciting and fast-paced sports in the world, played professionally and recreationally across various countries. With leagues expanding and new teams emerging, many fans and enthusiasts often ask, “How many hockey teams are there now?” The answer varies depending on whether we consider professional leagues like the NHL (National Hockey League), AHL (American Hockey League), KHL (Kontinental Hockey League), and international teams or amateur and minor league teams.

This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of hockey teams worldwide, including the total number of teams across major leagues, international competitions, and growing hockey markets.

A Quick Breakdown: How Many Hockey Teams Are There Now?

Hockey teams exist at various levels, from professional leagues to international competitions and developmental leagues. Below is a detailed table summarizing some of the major leagues and the number of teams currently competing.

Hockey Teams Worldwide (Updated 2025)

This table provides a solid snapshot of how many hockey teams are there now, considering the top professional leagues and international competitions.

Professional Hockey Leagues Around the World

NHL – The Pinnacle of Professional Hockey

The National Hockey League (NHL) is the premier professional hockey league, with 32 teams split between the Eastern and Western Conferences. It features elite players from all over the world and is the most-watched hockey league globally.

KHL – The Largest League Outside North America

The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) is the biggest professional league outside North America, with 23 teams spanning Russia, China, Belarus, and other Eurasian countries.

AHL and ECHL – Developmental Leagues

The American Hockey League (AHL) and East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) serve as feeder leagues for the NHL, developing future stars. The AHL consists of 32 teams, while the ECHL has 28.

International Hockey Teams

Beyond club hockey, the sport thrives on the international stage. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) oversees 55 national teams, divided into divisions based on skill level. These teams compete in major tournaments like the IIHF World Championship and the Winter Olympics.

• Top-tier national teams: Canada, USA, Russia, Sweden, Finland, Czech Republic
• Emerging hockey nations: China, Japan, South Korea, and various European nations

How Many Hockey Teams Are There Now in Emerging Markets?

Hockey is expanding beyond its traditional strongholds. Countries like China, India, Mexico, and the UAE are investing in professional leagues and national programs. The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics helped popularize hockey in China, where new teams are emerging in domestic leagues.

Similarly, countries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia are beginning to develop competitive hockey programs, further increasing the global count of hockey teams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many NHL teams are there in 2025?

There are currently 32 teams in the NHL, with no official expansion plans announced for the near future.

2. How many international hockey teams are there now?

As of 2025, the IIHF recognizes 55 national teams competing in various divisions of international play.

3. Which country has the most professional hockey teams?

The United States has the highest number of professional teams, spanning the NHL, AHL, ECHL, and several minor leagues.

4. Are there new professional hockey teams being added soon?

Expansion is always a topic of discussion. The NHL recently added the Seattle Kraken (2021), and other leagues frequently see new teams enter.

5. How many hockey teams are there in Europe?

Europe has hundreds of professional and semi-professional teams across leagues like the KHL, SHL, Liiga, DEL, and more.

Conclusion

So, how many hockey teams are there now? The answer varies depending on the league and region, but globally, there are hundreds of professional teams and over 50 national teams competing at the highest levels.

Hockey continues to grow, with new teams emerging in non-traditional markets and leagues expanding. Whether you follow the NHL, KHL, or international hockey, the sport’s future looks bright.

For more updates on hockey team expansions and league changes, check out this in-depth analysis on ESPN’s Hockey Section.