
ECHL’s Deep Roots in the AHL’s 2026 Calder Cup Triumph
The Toronto Marlies' 2026 Calder Cup victory marks the 35th straight season the ECHL has been represented on the AHL champion, highlighting a century‑long talent pipeline.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Avery Hayes across Hockey.

The Toronto Marlies' 2026 Calder Cup victory marks the 35th straight season the ECHL has been represented on the AHL champion, highlighting a century‑long talent pipeline.

The Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins saw their 2025‑26 campaign conclude in heartbreaking fashion on Tuesday night, as the Toronto Marlies edged them 4‑3 in overtime of Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final.

The Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins capped a breakthrough season by finishing third in the AHL standings and advancing to the Eastern Conference Final, a feat not achieved since the 2013‑14 campaign.

Despite a heartbreaking overtime loss, Pittsburgh's emerging talents displayed resilience, with standout performances from prospects like Harrison Brunicke and Sergei Murashov, while the team's camaraderie hinted at a bright future.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are navigating a critical juncture, blending a hybrid rebuild with a veteran‑heavy lineup. General manager Kyle Dubas seeks to integrate young talent while maintaining a competitive core anchored by Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang.

Springfield’s dramatic third‑period rally and Chicago’s overtime heroics highlight a pivotal weekend in the AHL playoffs.

With Evgeni Malkin's contract hanging in the balance and a wave of young talent poised to break through, Pittsburgh's front office is poised for a busy offseason.

A look at Sidney Crosby’s year‑to‑year approach, the Penguins’ blue‑line needs, and the draft moves that could shape the next era of Pittsburgh hockey

Rickard Rakell’s 48‑point season, marked by a mid‑season move to second‑line center, helped the Penguins clinch a playoff spot and has elevated his trade value, attracting interest from rivals such as the Philadelphia Flyers.

Springfield erased a 3‑0 deficit, with Dillon Dube and Hugh McGing sparking a late surge before Akil Thomas sealed a 4‑3 overtime win.