Leafs lose 20 players after their affiliate team in the ECHL folds
With a heavy heart, the ECHL has delivered a somber announcement: the Newfoundland Growlers, Toronto Maple Leafs' NHL affiliate, is folding, ceasing operations immediately.
The team's failure to meet league obligations, attributed to missed payment deadlines, led to this unfortunate outcome, despite ongoing negotiations for a sale that couldn't meet the ECHL's deadline.
In a prepared statement, ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin expressed sadness over losing hockey in the Newfoundland market, thanking Growlers fans and partners for their unwavering support.
Following this dissolution, the fate of the players hangs in the balance. The ECHL and PHPA have designated Growlers players as unrestricted free agents.
However, no ECHL team may sign more than two players from this pool. Notably, any player with AHL or NHL ties will be transferred to the Toronto Marlies, the Leafs' AHL affiliate.
This news marks a significant loss for both the Growlers organization and their dedicated fanbase. Despite efforts to salvage the team's future, the ECHL Board of Governors ultimately voted to terminate the Growlers' league membership. As the hockey world mourns the end of an era, the legacy of the Newfoundland Growlers, including their iconic logo, will forever be remembered.
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Leafs organization loses 20 players to free agency today in freak situation
| POLL | ||
Are you surprised that their ECHL team folded? | ||
| Yes | 21 | 61.8 % |
| No | 13 | 38.2 % |
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