For the vast majority of players in the NHL, they’re going to need a stop playing within the farm system of the club that either drafted or signed them. Some will get their start in the ECHL, the premier “AA” hockey circuit, while many will spends some time in the American Hockey League, the last step for most players before they realize their NHL dreams.
After a player is drafted or signed graduates from either junior hockey or college hockey, or a player has spent the bulk of his career in Europe, the ECHL and AHL serve as vital development arms to help prepare players for what’s to come in the NHL. The AHL has been one of the top professional circuits in North America since its inception in 1936, while the ECHL, which was formerly known as the East Coast Hockey League but now just goes by its acronym, has helped develop pro players since 1988-89.
Both leagues span North America, with 32 AHL teams mirroring the 32 in the NHL. The ECHL has 29 teams. Each AHL team is affiliated with an NHL team as are all 29 in the ECHL.
Here is the break down of each affiliate for each of the 32 NHL teams.
The best and most complete coverage of the NHL minor league hockey and NHL Draft news is found on FloHockey. Don’t miss the latest new prospect guides, rankings and more from Chris Peters and the FloHockey staff.
FloHockey is the streaming home to some of the best hockey leagues in North America, including the AHL, ECHL and more. Check out the broadcast schedule to watch more hockey.
Tags:
Get the most important Hockey stories delivered straight to your inbox.
©2006 – Present FloSports, Inc. All rights reserved.
