What is the difference between AHL and NHL?

The American Hockey League (AHL) and the National Hockey League (NHL) differ primarily in their level of play and purpose. The NHL is the premier professional Ice Hockey league in North America, featuring the highest level of competition and the best players in the world. In contrast, the AHL serves as a developmental league for the NHL, where younger players, prospects, and those on rehabilitation assignments gain experience and develop their skills before potentially moving up to the NHL. Additionally, the AHL's teams are often affiliated with NHL franchises.