BREAKING: Two NHL Affiliates Face Bankruptcy and Forfeitable Season

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Sam Walker
March 29, 2024 (4:53 PM)

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Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs might need new affiliates in the ECHL next season. A recent report suggests financial troubles are putting the Trois-Rivières Lions (Canadiens affiliate) and Newfoundland Growlers (Leafs affiliate) at risk of bankruptcy. The ECHL may step in to take over the teams.

"At this point, it appears the ECHL will assume control of both the Trois-Rivières and Newfoundland Growlers organizations,"

said Vachon in a recent article. The fate of these teams will be decided at a board of governors meeting next week.

"The Lions' future will be determined at the ECHL governors' meeting on April 2. There won't be a sale by Deacon Sports & Entertainment (DSE)," noted Vachon, citing a source. "Moreover, the Newfoundland company hasn't met its debt repayment deadline."

The Lions, who joined in 2021-22, face financial challenges, playing home games at Colisée Vidéotron in Quebec City. The city warned the team and DSE about outstanding debts in May 2023. Currently, the Lions are fighting for a playoff spot in the North division.

The Growlers joined in 2018, aligning with the Leafs. They finished first in their division in their debut season with 94 points and won the Kelly Cup. The Growlers and Lions are scheduled to face off three times in April. However, depending on the outcome of the upcoming vote, neither team may complete their seasons.