January 30, 2015

AHL announces new Pacific Division: The AHL did as expected today, announcing a new five-team Pacific Division comprised of California teams that will begin play next season. Norfolk Admirals (Anaheim Ducks) to San Diego. Adirondack Flames (Calgary Flames) to Stockton. Oklahoma City Barons (Edmonton Oilers) to Bakersfield. Manchester Monarchs (LA Kings) to Ontario. Worcester Sharks (San Jose Sharks) to San Jose. To be clear on the Oklahoma City Barons move to Bakersfield, the Barons are closing shop and the Bakersfield Condors will be moved up to the AHL ranks.

posted by NoMich to hockey at 10:51 AM - 2 comments

There was a lot of talk around the state about the Thunder-effect on the minor league teams in the OKC area, so I'm not surprised at all to see the Barons moving elsewhere. I guess the effect on the AAA ballclub* hasn't been as strong since they just signed a new affiliation agreement with the Dodgers.

(*including a team name change from Redbirds to Dodgers starting this upcoming season. The AA team in Tulsa also signed an agreement with LA but will remain the Drillers)

posted by Ufez Jones at 11:24 AM on January 30, 2015

It looks like Manchester, Norfolk & Glens Falls are getting ECHL franchises as a consolation prize. I haven't heard what's happening in Worcester.

posted by Jugwine at 12:53 PM on January 30, 2015

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