New York Islandsers Announce Move of AHL Affiliate from Bridgeport to Hamilton
The New York Islanders officially announced on Thursday their intent to relocate the American Hockey League's Bridgeport Islander franchise starting with the upcoming season, marking a significant shift in professional hockey geography following decades at its current home city of Connecticut and ending an era that began over 50 years ago when it was founded.
Key Points
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1The New York Islandsers have officially announced plans to relocate their American Hockey League affiliate from the Bridgeport Ice Dogs in Connecticut.
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2This move is scheduled for next season (2026-27), ending a 25-year history of the team playing out-of-state at TD Coliseum.
Developments
Perspectives
The relocation of the American Hockey League affiliate from Connecticut is a significant development that will bring professional hockey back home for fans in Canada.
— [Mar 19 | CBC]While many sources confirm Islanders' intent to move, approval by the AHL Board of Governors remains necessary before this plan can be finalized and implemented next season. The team currently knows if they have received permission but has not yet made a final decision on proceeding.
— [Mar 20 | Globalnews.ca]The New York Islanders officially announced their intent to relocate the Bridgeport franchise from Connecticut, with plans for an official move starting in the next season. This announcement marks another major change expected within Hamilton's sports landscape over coming years as they seek new growth opportunities.
— [Mar 19 | Timescolonist]The Islanders have finalized their plan to relocate AHL affiliate from Bridgeport, Connecticut and bring it back home for the start of next season. This move requires formal approval by American Hockey League's Board of Governors before proceeding further with implementation details.
— [Mar 19 | NY Times}The New York Islandsers plan to relocate their American Hockey League (AHL) team from Connecticut's Bridgeport, where it operated since its inception as a franchise name change and logo update will be announced later pending approval by AHL Board of Governors for the TD Coliseum in Hamilton.
On March 19, 2026, The New York Islanders announced plans with Oak View Group (OVG) to relocate their American Hockey League affiliate from Bridgeport, Connecticut, back home for the start of the 2026-7 season. This move requires approval by the AHL Board and centers on a long-term agreement at OVG's recently renovated TD Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario.