That opened the door for a groundbreaking shift. When the Edmonton Oil Kings relocated in the fall of ’76, the Portland Winter Hawks became the first American-based team in what was then known as the Western Canadian Hockey League. The name was shortened to the Western Hockey League in 1978, and these days, six of the WHL's 23 teams make up the U.S. Division.
How Portland Winterhawks Became A Pillar Franchise Over 50 Years Of 'Hawkey'
No one can question the Portland Winterhawks' success. But what has been the key to the club becoming a pillar franchise in the WHL and having so many talented players come through their doors on the way to NHL stardom?
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