Raw Charge · Sep 29, 2017
A look ahead at the Adirondack Thunder schedule
Technically, the Tampa Bay Lightning do not have an ECHL affiliate. After partnering with the Kalamazoo Wings for a season, the two clubs decided to part ways. Kalamazoo reunited with Vancouver and the Lightning joining the Columbus Blue Jackets, Florida Panthers, and Ottawa Senators as NHL franchises without an official ECHL affiliate.
It’s an interesting choice for the Lightning because they have an influx of prospects making the transition to the pro game from junior hockey. Not all of them are going to be able to find a spot on the Crunch and it would behoove the Lightning to have another organization available for those players to get ice time.