The New York Islanders’ ECHL affiliate changes as the Worcester Railers stop serving the organization after eight seasons. The Trenton Ironhawks take over the ECHL role for the 2026-27 season. The Ironhawks previously played as the Colorado Avalanche’s ECHL affiliate, but the franchise’s move east supports partnering with an NHL team on the East Coast. Islanders General Manager Mathieu Darche said the partnership brings professional hockey back to New Jersey’s capital city and provides a platform for prospect development on and off the ice. Trenton team president Bob Ohrablo welcomed the Islanders and expects strong development in a supportive community. The Ironhawks will play their first home game on Oct. 24 against the Utica Comets.
"We are excited to partner with Trenton as our new ECHL affiliate and bring professional hockey back to New Jersey's capital city,"
"Trenton has a great organization, led by Bob Ohrablo, and has set a platform for our prospects to develop both on and off the ice. We've had several members of the current and past Islanders teams play games in the ECHL and look forward to continuing that trend in Trenton."
"We are proud to welcome the NY Islanders and their new AHL team in Hamilton, ONT, as part of the Ironhawks family,"
"Judging by the early support for the Ironhawks, Islanders prospects will develop in an electric atmosphere and a community that loves cheering them on. The Ironhawks will play their first home game on Oct. 24, taking on the Utica Comets."
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