"American Hockey League affiliates play a significant role in the success of all NHL clubs and are we are proud to have the Chicago Wolves as our first in team history," said Vegas Golden Knights General Manager George McPhee. "I would like to thank Don Levin, Wendell Young and the rest of the Wolves organization for their commitment to the game and helping young hockey players grow to reach their full potential as professionals. Chicago is without question one of the strongest, most passionate hockey communities in North America. This is a relationship that we truly believe will be mutually beneficial."
"If you look at George McPhee's history, he has always been a general manager who believes that winning is an important part of developing players," said Wolves owner Don Levin. "Professional playoffs are different than the regular season and he understands that and he wants his players to be ready to win."
The Wolves finished first in the 2016-17 Central Division and made it to the second round of the Calder Cup playoffs before falling to the Grand Rapids Griffins. The team finished with its best regular-season winning percentage (.664) since 2008. The Golden Knights' first signee, Reid Duke, joined the Wolves on April 7 after signing a professional tryout contract.
The Wolves will be the primary affiliate of the Golden Knights.
Founded as part of the International Hockey League in 1994, the Chicago Wolves have enjoyed two decades of consistent success on the ice as home to some of the most prominent names in American hockey, like Chris Chelios, Troy Murray and Rob Brown. When the IHL folded in 2001, the franchise joined the AHL.
About American Hockey League Affiliates
An American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate is an NHL organization's highest level of minor league affiliation.
Throughout the season, AHL players will be promoted ("recalled") to the partner NHL club for a number of reasons. If an NHL player is injured, the team may recall a player from the AHL to temporarily take his place. They can then be sent back down to the minors ("assigned") for a variety of reasons as well, including when an injured NHL player returns to full health.
Every NHL team has its own affiliate in the AHL, from where more than 88 percent of active NHL players are graduates.
The Vegas Golden Knights are a National Hockey League franchise owned and operated by Black Knight Sports and Entertainment LLC. The Vegas Golden Knights were established by founding partners William Foley and his family and the Maloof family. For the latest news and information on the Golden Knights visit vegasgoldenknights.com. Fans can follow the team on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.
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