HAMILTON, Ontario (AP) 鈥� The name of the New York Islanders鈥� American Hockey League affiliate is the Hamilton Hammers after the club was , Connecticut.
The Islanders unveiled the Hammers moniker and logo at a news conference in Hamilton on Thursday and said it was a tribute to the city鈥檚 steelmaking industry. The team is set to play in the recently renovated TD Coliseum.
鈥淲e look forward to building on the progression and foundation established this past season in the AHL and bringing that momentum to Hamilton,鈥� said. 鈥淭he Hamilton Hammers will embody the city鈥檚 hard-working spirit 鈥� built on heart, work ethic and a community identity that never backs down.”
Bridgeport made the playoffs this past season in Rocky Thompson’s first year as coach. Prospects such as recent first-round picks Cole Eiserman, Victor Eklund and Kashawn Aitcheson could all be playing for Hamilton in 2026-27.
The Islanders had their top minor league affiliate in Bridgeport for the previous 25 years.
___
AP NHL:
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
