The Hershey Bears are set to face off against the Bridgeport Islanders in the first round of the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs. This is a big moment, as a victory in this three-game series would mark the end of the Islanders’ AHL presence in Bridgeport.
The New York Islanders will move their AHL team to Hamilton, Ontario, starting next season. The AHL Board of Governors approved this move on March 31, which will conclude 25 years of hockey in Bridgeport. Hamilton’s TD Coliseum, recently renovated at a cost of $300 million, will welcome this new chapter of professional hockey.
Kelly Cheeseman, the Islanders’ president of business operations, expressed gratitude for the support from Bridgeport fans over the years. He praised the community’s loyalty, stating, “This community has been the heart of our AHL operations.”
Mathieu Darche, the Islanders’ general manager, echoed this sentiment, saying they are thrilled to have a strong fan base in Hamilton. He highlighted the importance of connecting with a new generation of hockey fans.
Historically, Hamilton hosted the Hamilton Bulldogs from 1996 to 2015. The new team name and logo are anticipated soon. This marks another significant point for the Capitals organization, as they’ve previously eliminated the Islanders from the playoffs, ending the era of Nassau Coliseum in 2015.
Interestingly, Alex Ovechkin humorously noted the stakes, saying, “It’s our job; I’m going to probably take a chair.” This lighthearted comment illustrates the team’s competitive spirit.
In their past encounters, the Bears and Islanders have met 134 times since Bridgeport joined the AHL as an expansion team. Hershey leads this rivalry with a record of 78 wins. The two teams have faced each other twice in the Calder Cup Playoffs, with Hershey winning both times: a decisive 4-1 series in 2010 and a close 3-2 victory in 2019. Notably, Aaron Ness from the Bears is the only player remaining from the 2019 face-off.
The first game is set for Tuesday at 7:00 PM at Total Mortgage Arena. If necessary, the series will continue at Giant Center on Thursday and return to Total Mortgage Arena for a potential Game 3 on Saturday.
This playoff series not only builds on a rich history but also signifies a turning point for both franchises. Players and fans alike are eager to see how this chapter unfolds.
