The other thing to consider is that the AHL definitely wants other teams (like the California ones) to move their affiliates out west too.
The Heat NEVER made sense in Abbotsford. They never were seen as a permanent fixture.
The Canucks having their affiliate in Abbotsford makes tons of sense, and it also makes the AHL out West a permanent item. Look to see more teams now start to move their franchises out to California, Washington over the next several years.
Sweet! I may actually go to AHL games since they're much cheaper than Canucks games and I'd get to see our prospects develop.
The only thing that worries me is that the prospects havign to travel so much may take a toll on them. Also free agent prospects might be scared to sign with us and having to live in Abby w/ the travel as oppose to staying in a bigger city in Chicago
I hope they wouldn't continue to be the "Heat". Abbotsford Millionaires anyone? or the Jonny Canuck in the V?
It makes sense as a business move AND a developmental move. Now the prospects can get access to the best trainers, facilities, etc.
I hope they wouldn't continue to be the "Heat". Abbotsford Millionaires anyone? or the Jonny Canuck in the V?
You'll likely see alot of the team staff (coaches, trainers, etc) move to Abbotsford from Peoria with the team, unless the Canucks clean house.
Likely a fair amount of "Heat" staff, such as the inhouse entertainment, sales staff, would be retained, but again, that's not a guarantee.
I doubt it based on the the Heat's attendance issues.
I would love Peoria's staff, especially their coaches for development.
St. Louis can keep Arniel.
I hope they wouldn't continue to be the "Heat". Abbotsford Millionaires anyone? or the Jonny Canuck in the V?
This probably also means that Canucks will be affiliating themselves with Victoria's ECHL team. Kalamazoo was only a couple hours away from Chicago.
Do they have to play in Abbotsford? Could they possibly move it to, or closer to Vancouver?
This probably also means that Canucks will be affiliating themselves with Victoria's ECHL team. Kalamazoo was only a couple hours away from Chicago.
But who will play in Abbostsfords brand new stadium than?
The S-Kings folded when they brought in the WHL's Royals.
[Tom Mayenknecht @TheSportMarket](https://twitter.com/TheSportMarket)
Still lots of moving parts b4 March 23rd timeline but watch for Calgary Flames to take on Utica for their AHL affiliation while...(Cont'd)
[Tom Mayenknecht @TheSportMarket](https://twitter.com/TheSportMarket)
(Part 2)...St. Louis Blues to affiliate with Chicago Wolves and @VanCanucks to buy Peoria to move to Abbotsford. #ahlcarousel @TEAM1040