The expansion franchise aligns with the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose, tapping into a proven developmental system known for elevating ECHL talent to the sport’s highest level.
This afternoon the Bloomington Bison announced their new NHL and AHL affiliates. Starting in october they will be affiliated with the Winnipeg Jets of the NHL and Manitoba Moose of the AHL.
This is just one of several ECHL teams switching affiliates this offseason.
We are excited to begin this new partnership with the Bloomington Bison … 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.
This could be a step in the right direction for the franchise, joining a NHL organization that has had recent success and decent player development.
The Winnipeg organization has developed several NHL-caliber players through the ECHL. Most recently, goaltender Thomas Milic, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, advanced from the Norfolk Admirals to the Manitoba Moose before making his NHL debut with the Jets last season.
Goaltender Isaac Poulter also split the 2025-26 season between the Admirals and Moose after re-signing with Winnipeg. Defenseman Dawson Barteaux and forward Chase Yoder also spent time in both leagues last season.
This is an important step forward for the Bloomington Bison…When we evaluated what we wanted in our next affiliation, we focused on alignment, communication, player development and a shared commitment to winning. Winnipeg and Manitoba have a strong development model, a clear hockey identity and a history of preparing players the right way. We believe this partnership gives our organization, our players and our fans a tremendous opportunity moving forward.
Bloomington previously served as the ECHL affiliate of the New York Rangers and Hartford Wolf Pack.
