The Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose have announced a new affiliate agreement with the Bloomington Bison, securing a partnership that will see the Bison serve as the ECHL farm team for the 2026‑27 season.
Both the Jets and the Moose emphasized that the arrangement is designed to give promising players a professional environment in which they can hone their skills while remaining under the developmental umbrella of the organization.
A Strategic Partnership for Player Development
Craig Heisinger, Senior Vice President & Director of Hockey Operations/Assistant General Manager of the Winnipeg Jets and General Manager of the Manitoba Moose, said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to nurturing talent both on and off the ice.
The Bison, in their second season of operation, have already demonstrated potential by reaching the playoffs and posting a 37‑30‑5 record in 2025‑26, a performance that earned them a berth in the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the first time.
Eleven players from the Moose have logged ECHL minutes this past season, with eight appearing for both the Moose and the Bison, underscoring the fluid movement of talent between the AHL and ECHL levels.
Previously, Bloomington served as the ECHL affiliate of the New York Rangers and the Hartford Wolf Pack, a relationship that ended when the Bison decided to align with the Jets and Moose.
Andy Zilch, President of the Bloomington Bison, expressed enthusiasm for the new affiliation, noting that the partnership will provide the club with the resources and expertise needed to compete at a higher level.
The Bison are scheduled to begin their third season and their inaugural year as the ECHL affiliate of the Jets and Moose on October 17, 2026, a date that marks a pivotal moment for the franchise.
League officials and analysts alike view the deal as a win‑win, predicting that the increased competition will raise the overall standard of play while giving prospects a clearer pathway to the professional ranks.