New York Islanders’ AHL team to relocate to Hamilton

A new hockey team is arriving in Hamilton. The New York Islanders’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate team is relocating to Hamilton from Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The team is set to hit the ice right here in the Hammer for the start of the 2026-27 season.

Professional hockey returning to Hamilton is part of a long-term agreement with TD Coliseum, which is operated by Oak View Group.

“The return of professional hockey to Hamilton marks an exciting new chapter for our city and sports fans across the region,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager of TD Coliseum, Nick DeLuco, in a release sent to CHCH News.

“We are excited to make Hamilton our primary affiliate in the American Hockey League,” said Mathieu Darche, General Manager and Executive Vice President of the Islanders.

“The support the city has shown our organization throughout this transition has been incredible. We look forward to having our top young talent play in front of such a strong fanbase inside the newly renovated, world-class TD Coliseum and we are committed to establishing ourselves in the community to engage a new generation of hockey fans,” said Darche.

According to the release, the team name, official logo and ticketing information for the Hamilton market will be announced at a later date following AHL approval.

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