One of the NHL’s Original Six teams has secured a new affiliate.

On Wednesday, the Toronto Maple Leafs announced a partnership with the ECHL’s Cincinnati Cyclones, starting from the 2024-25 season. The duration of the affiliation agreement has not been disclosed.

“We are thrilled to enter into this new partnership with the Cincinnati Cyclones,” stated general manager Brad Treliving. “This represents a significant investment for our hockey club as we aim to provide our players with top-notch resources to support their development and career growth.”

This new partnership comes as a result of the Maple Leafs’ previous affiliate, the Newfoundland Growlers, ceasing operations before the conclusion of the 2023-24 season. Toronto has been affiliated with the Maritime franchise since 2018.

The Cyclones, established in 1990, operated independently during the 2023-24 season following a six-year affiliation with the Buffalo Sabres and Rochester Americans.

“We are excited to align ourselves with an organization as prestigious as the Toronto Maple Leafs,” remarked Cyclones general manager Kristin Ropp. “Partnering with a franchise that prioritizes player development from the ECHL through the AHL and into the NHL is truly thrilling.”

The affiliation holds personal significance for Cincinnati’s head coach and director of hockey operations, Jason Payne.

“As a native of Toronto, my hockey foundation was laid in that city,” Payne noted. “Hockey and the Maple Leafs are not just a part of life, but a way of life for so many. I am enthusiastic about the connection between our esteemed franchise, the Cincinnati Cyclones, and the Original Six Toronto Maple Leafs.”

Since the current iteration of the Cyclones rejoined the ECHL in 2006, 28 players have graduated to NHL careers.