Winnipeg Jets announce new ECHL affiliate

The Winnipeg Jets and their AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose, have announced a new one-year affiliation agreement with the ECHL's Bloomington Bison. This partnership comes after the end of the Jets' previous affiliation with the Norfolk Admirals.

The Bloomington Bison are entering just their third season of operation and have already demonstrated a commitment to success, reaching the playoffs in their second year. Craig Heisinger, senior vice president & director of hockey operations for the Jets, expressed excitement about the new collaboration. He highlighted the Bison's proven dedication to winning on the ice and anticipates that the affiliation will offer a valuable professional environment for the Jets' developing prospects.

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We are excited to begin this new partnership with the Bloomington Bison. The Bison have already shown their commitment to success on the ice, reaching the playoffs in their second season of operation. We look forward to the opportunity, and professional environment, this affiliation will provide for our prospects.

This move is significant for both organizations. The Bison, who were previously affiliated with the New York Rangers for two seasons, will now benefit from the development pipeline of the established Jets organization. Bloomington Bison president Andy Zilch stated his enthusiasm for this next step in growing their organization, noting the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose's strong track record in talent development. He believes their shared vision and professionalism align well with the Bison's values, promising enhanced opportunities for players and fans alike.

During the past three seasons, the Jets organization had been sending their prospects to the Admirals. The American Hockey League has also released its schedule, with the Moose set to play in three home openers, including their own against the Chicago Wolves on Saturday, October 3. The complete AHL schedule is expected to be unveiled on Thursday.

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I’m thrilled for the next step in growing our organization. The Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose have a long and proven track record of developing talent on and off the ice. Their vision and professionalism align with our values in Bloomington, and this affiliation will provide even more opportunities for our players, and for our fans to see them grow.