Overview
- The New York Islanders officially announced their intent to relocate their AHL affiliate from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Hamilton, Ontario, starting in the 2026–27 season.
- Final approval from the AHL Board of Governors is still required before the relocation becomes official.
- Oak View Group, operator of Hamilton’s 18,000-seat TD Coliseum following a $300 million renovation, has a long-term partnership in place with the Islanders to host the team.
- The Islanders thanked Bridgeport fans and said they will work with the city on a transition, which would end roughly 25 years of AHL hockey there after this season.
- Bridgeport averaged 4,292 fans this season, ranking 24th of 32 AHL teams, as team officials and venue leaders in Hamilton highlighted strong local support and community benefits for the move.