The 1996–97 Deutsche Eishockey Liga season was the 3rd season of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (English: German Ice Hockey League).

Adler Mannheim became the DEL Champion, winning a German title for the second time in their history.

The Bosman ruling, a 1995 decision of the European Court of Justice regarding the movement of labor in soccer, had profound influence on the league.

The frequent player moves were not viewed positively by the fans.

Both the Ratinger Löwen and Wedemark Scorpions earned their keep in the DEL.