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Avalanche to change AHL affiliate; Blue Jackets to partner with Lake Erie Monsters

The Columbus Blue Jackets will take over the American Hockey League affiliate in Cleveland, the Lake Erie Monsters, and the Avalanche will have a new AHL affiliate next season, according to Aaron Portzline of The Columbus Dispatch.

Avalanche GM Joe Sakic told me earlier this season the NHL team’s contract with Lake Erie ends after next season (2015-16).

The Avs might be swapping AHL affiliates with the Blue Jackets, who are parting ways with the Springfield (Mass.) Falcons — but that has not been confirmed. Springfield has announced a “major announcement” Friday, and given Portzline’s story — he’s a rock-solid veteran — the Avs are leaving Cleveland and must find a new home.