American Hockey League, a professional ice hockey league that serves as the primary development league for the National Hockey League (NHL). Most AHL players are under contract to NHL teams.
Acronym formed from American Hockey League, established in 1936 through a merger of earlier professional hockey leagues. The league's name reflects its continental scope and its position in North American professional hockey hierarchy.
The AHL serves as hockey's equivalent to baseball's minor leagues, where future NHL stars develop their skills and veteran players continue their careers. Many hockey fans consider AHL games more exciting than NHL games due to players' determination to prove themselves worthy of promotion.
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