After 25 years, Islanders AHL affiliate set to leave Bridgeport after this season

It was rumored for months, and on Thursday, it became official.

The New York Islanders announced Thursday their intent to relocate their American Hockey League affiliate from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Hamilton, Ontario, beginning with the 2026-27 season, pending approval from the AHL Board of Governors.

The move ends a 25-year run in Bridgeport, where the franchise operated as the Sound Tigers and later the Bridgeport Islanders.

“On behalf of the entire New York Islanders organization, I want to extend our deepest thanks to the City of Bridgeport and the incredibly loyal fans who have supported this team for the past 25 years,” said Kelly Cheeseman, the team’s President of Business Operations. “This community has been the heart of our AHL operations.”

The relocation will center on a long-term agreement to play at TD Coliseum in Hamilton, an 18,000-seat arena that recently underwent a $300 million renovation.

General manager Mathieu Darche said the move represents an opportunity to strengthen the organization’s development pipeline.

“We are excited to make Hamilton our primary affiliate in the American Hockey League,” Darche said. “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.”

The Islanders said they will continue working with Bridgeport officials to ensure a smooth transition from Total Mortgage Arena.

While the move reflects a step forward for the franchise, it also marks the end of a long-standing relationship with a fan base that supported the organization through multiple eras.

Hamilton officials welcomed the announcement as the return of professional hockey to the city.

“This is an exciting moment for Hamiltonians,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “It strengthens our city’s proud hockey tradition while creating new opportunities for young players and fans alike to connect with the game.”

Further details, including the team name and branding in Hamilton, will be announced at a later date.