The Buffalo Sabres on Monday announced they have signed an agreement with the Jacksonville Icemen to serve as their new ECHL affiliate.
The Sabres spent the previous six years affiliated with the Cincinnati Cyclones. Jacksonville, meanwhile, recently served as the New York Rangers’ affiliate.
The Rochester Americans, the Sabres’ AHL affiliate, can recall players from Jacksonville when they need help.
Last season, only one player on an NHL contract, forward Matej Pekar, played in Cincinnati. During the Sabres’ affiliation, three Cyclones – goalies Michael Houser, Jonas Johansson and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen – reached Buffalo.
Still, ECHL affiliates often infuse AHL teams with talent. Forwards Josh Passolt and Kohen Olischefski contributed to the Amerks’ run in the Calder Cup Playoffs after spending most of the year in Cincinnati.
Sabres assistant coach Jason Christie served as Jacksonville’s head coach for four seasons before joining Buffalo in 2021.
