Carolina Hurricanes organization likely cutting ties with Charlotte Checkers

For ten years now, the Carolina Hurricanes organization has shared an affiliation with the Charlotte Checkers of the American Hockey League. With both teams going on impressive runs last season, the Hurricanes battling their way to the Eastern Conference Finals, and the Checkers overpowering Chicago to hoist the Calder Cup, it's clear the duo has done wonders for hockey in North Carolina.

It seems now, however, a breakdown in the relationship between the two organizations has caused rumor that the Hurricanes are seeking to move their AHL-affiliation elsewhere.

Among the teams in discuss, the most heavily speculated would be entering into an affiliation with the Chicago Wolves, who will end their affiliation with the Vegas Golden Knights at the end of the 19-20 season. Assuming these rumors become a reality, it is also expected that the Checkers will join into an affiliation with the Florida Panthers.

Hurricanes General Manager Don Waddell spoke on the rumored deal;

“Nothing's done yet, but certainly we're looking at all of our options.

Chicago is certainly one of them.”

The Charlotte Checkers organization released the following statement;

While we are aware that the Carolina Hurricanes are nearing an affiliation agreement with the AHL's Chicago Wolves, the Hurricanes have had little dialogue with us regarding this matter.

In an era when NHL teams are placing great value on affiliations with closer proximity between the two clubs, we understand the confusion that such a move would cause.

We will explore other options for our affiliation and look forward to continuing in the American Hockey League when play resumes.

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