Jets & ECHL’s Bloomington Bison Announce New Affiliation

The Winnipeg Jets and the ECHL’s Bloomington Bison have announced a new affiliation for 2026-27.

“I’m thrilled for the next step in growing our organization,” Bison President Andy Zilch said in a news release. “The Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose have a long and proven track record of developing talent on and off the ice. Their vision and professionalism align with our values in Bloomington, and this affiliation will provide even more opportunities for our players, and for our fans to see them grow.”

Earlier Wednesday, the ECHL’s Norfolk Admirals announced their affiliation with the Jets had ended after three seasons.

“We are excited to begin this new partnership with the Bloomington Bison,” Jets Senior Vice President & Director of Hockey Operations/assistant general manager (GM) and Moose GM Craig Heisinger said in the release. “The Bison have already shown their commitment to success on the ice, reaching the playoffs in their second season of operation. We look forward to the opportunity, and professional environment, this affiliation will provide for our prospects.”

The Bison are located in Illinois and were established in 2024. They posted a 37-30-5 record last season while qualifying for the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the first time in franchise history. The New York Rangers were their NHL affiliate for the first two seasons of their existence.