The Hartford Wolfpack may no longer be the Rangers AHL affiliate come 2011-2012. According to the Biz of Hockey, the Rangers are unhappy with their relationship with the Wolfpack, and will be looking to transfer their affiliation to the Rochester Americans, who end their affiliation with the Panthers after the end of the 2010-2011 season.
Hartford has been the home of the Rangers AHL affiliation since its move from Binghamton in 1997. In the 13 seasons since the move, the Wolfpack have been fairly successful, winning three division championships, a regular season championship, a conference championship, and a Calder Cup. This past season was the first time in 13 years that the Wolfpack failed to qualify for the Calder Cup Playoffs.
In addition to interest from the Rochester Americans, there is also interest from numerous AHL clubs in the Upstate New York area. The Albany River Rats, who just lost their team to relocation to Charlotte, are another possibility. Albany is about half the distance to Manhattan from Rochester, and no longer has an AHL affiliate. Either way, it looks like the Rangers and Hartford will be severing ties soon.
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