The Blackhawks announced today that the organization will have a new ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) affiliate this season will be the Toledo Walleye. Last year the ‘Hawks were affiliated with the Fresno Falcons before they folded due to low revenue and dwindling attendance. The Gwinnett Gladiators became a temporary home for the rest of the season. Relocating the ECHL affiliate to Toledo will bring prospects in the Blackhawks’ system closer to Rockford and Chicago.

Often teams are unable to fill out an entire roster at this level and opt to share an affiliate with another NHL organization. Well, of all twenty-nine other teams in the league, the Blackhawks will share the ECHL affiliation with the Detroit Red Wings – this will be their first season with Toledo as well.