The Winnipeg Jets are changing their ECHL pipeline, and the new stop is Bloomington.
On Wednesday, the Jets and the Bloomington Bison announced a new affiliation that will run through 2026-27. The move gives Winnipeg a new ECHL partner after its relationship with the Norfolk Admirals ended earlier in the day, following three seasons together.
Bison president Andy Zilch framed the deal as a major step for the organization.
“I’m thrilled for the next step in growing our organization,” Bison President Andy Zilch said in a news release. “The Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose have a long and proven track record of developing talent on and off the ice. Their vision and professionalism align with our values in Bloomington, and this affiliation will provide even more opportunities for our players, and for our fans to see them grow.”
The Jets also made the partnership public on social media, posting: “We love Bison in this province ✈️ 🫎 🦬 #NHLJets 🤝 @ManitobaMoose”
From Winnipeg’s side, the fit is about development and environment.
“We are excited to begin this new partnership with the Bloomington Bison,” Jets Senior Vice President & Director of Hockey Operations/assistant general manager (GM) and Moose GM Craig Heisinger said in the release. “The Bison have already shown their commitment to success on the ice, reaching the playoffs in their second season of operation. We look forward to the opportunity, and professional environment, this affiliation will provide for our prospects.”
Bloomington, which is in Illinois, was established in 2024. The Bison went 37-30-5 last season and reached the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the first time in franchise history. Before this agreement, the New York Rangers served as their NHL affiliate for the first two seasons of the team’s existence.
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