On Tuesday it was announced that the ECHL club, the Maine Mariners were becoming the new minor league affiliate for the Boston Bruins. The Mariners were previously the affiliate for the New York Rangers since the 2018-2019 season.
The former ECHL affiliate for the Bruins, the Atlanta Gladiators were Boston’s affiliate since 2015. The Gladiators have not released a statement on the B’s changing teams.
The Mariners were originally Boston’s AHL affiliate from 1987-1992 before they were moved to Providence to become the now Providence Bruins. Providence has won a total of seven division titles, and one Calder Cup in 1999.
“The Bruins and Maine Mariners have a long player development history, as well as having a passionate fan base in Portland and throughout the state of Maine,” GM Don Sweeney said. “We are looking forward to building a strong working relationship with Comcast Spectacor, Daniel Briere, and the coaching staff of the Mariners.”
The Bruins join fellow Boston teams with minor league affiliates in Maine. The Red Sox Double-A affiliate, the Portland Sea Dogs are located in Portland Maine. In addition, the Celtics‘ G-League team the Maine Red Claws are located in Maine. The two stadiums lie right next to each other.