American Hockey League President Scott Howson announced that the AHL Board of Governors has unanimously approved relocating the New York Islanders' franchise from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Hamilton, Ontario, for the 2026-27 season. The team will play at the newly renovated TD Coliseum and join the North Division.
Scott Howson, president and chief executive officer of the American Hockey League, made the announcement from Springfield, Massachusetts. The board's unanimous decision clears the way for the Islanders-owned franchise to leave Bridgeport, Conn., after years there, and establish a new home in Hamilton, Ont., beginning next season. This move aligns with ongoing efforts to position AHL teams near key markets and facilities upgrades. The relocated team will compete in the AHL’s North Division at the TD Coliseum, which has undergone recent renovations to meet league standards. Officials highlighted the venue's readiness to host professional hockey operations. The AHL has operated since 1936 as the primary development league for National Hockey League talent. Nearly 90 percent of current NHL players have AHL experience, and more than 100 Hockey Hall of Famers spent time in the league.