AHL examines teams for potential Original Six-like branding
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 10:23 PM
Last updated Jul 26, 2026
The American Hockey League, celebrating its 90th season, considers which teams could embody an 'Original Six' concept similar to the NHL. The Springfield Thunderbirds, Hershey Bears, Providence Bruins, and Rochester Americans are highlighted as historical franchises with long-standing presence. The Cleveland Monsters and Syracuse also emerge as contenders based on their historical connections to the league. With AHL expansion and relocation on the horizon, the league explores divisional realignment plans.
- •The AHL includes historical franchises like Springfield Thunderbirds and Hershey Bears.
- •Cleveland Monsters and Syracuse are potential additions to an 'Original Six' concept.
- •The league completed its 90th season amid considerations for expansion.
- •Divisional realignment is a key topic for AHL's future structure.
- •Historical playoff matchups connect teams to the league's past.
- 10:23 PMYahoo Sports — What The AHL’s Version Of The NHL's Original Six Looks Like
"There are four original American Hockey League teams, so if the league branded an “Original Six” like the NHL, which teams have the long-standing history to make the list?
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- AHL•Jul 28, 2026, 2:28 AMTrent Whitfield Has Tough Follow-Up Act & Tougher Task Ahead In Providence
- AHL•Jul 27, 2026, 3:40 PMProvidence Bruins name Trent Whitfield as new head coach
- AHL•Jul 26, 2026, 1:27 AMCanadiens Suddenly Run Into New Goaltending Problem
- AHL•Jul 25, 2026, 11:03 AMBlackhawks Should Have A Goalie Battle At Training Camp
- AHL•Jul 19, 2026, 2:53 AMJussi Ahokas Is A Trend Setter & Colorado Will Help Him Reach New Highs
- AHL•Jul 16, 2026, 12:36 AMTwo Familiar Faces Emerge to Replace Steve Yzerman
