The Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL have selected to be affiliates with the Buffalo Sabres, rejecting the Columbus Blue Jackets in the process.
This decision destroyed the hopes of the I-71 connection that would’ve benefited the Columbus Blue Jackets farm system.
The Blue Jackets, currently without an ECHL affiliate, were likely hoping for this connection due to the closeness of the Cincinnati Cyclones. Having an ECHL and AHL affiliate right down and up the road, respectively, would have been convenient.
That being said, it doesn’t completely make things difficult for the organization. Of the main players on the Blue Jackets this past season, only Brandon Dubinsky has played an ECHL game. Dubinsky’s brief stint with the Alaska Aces came because of the 2012-13 NHL lockout.
Ideally, the Columbus Blue Jackets would have an ECHL affiliate. Although it won’t be the end of the world without one. The Jackets have been fine without one and have players on ECHL teams around the league. Furthermore, it helps with overhead to not have to support an entire ECHL team. With the not so far away revenue issues, the organization was likely hesitant to take on the Cyclones.
New Sabres General Manager Jason Botterill surely had influence in this decision. His first acquisition with the Sabres will not be a big free agent signing or trade, but a hockey team on the Ohio river.
According to the ECHL’s official website, 623 ECHL alumni have played in the NHL, which is a significant number. Clearly, the league can be beneficial if used properly. However, losing out on the Cincinnati Cyclones won’t be the end of the world.
It would have been fun for us Jackets fans and another excuse to drive down I-71 for a night. Lets just hope the Buffalo organization allow dollar beer night to continue. If they take that away, the Sabres will be on my most hated teams list real fast.