Detroit Red Wings announce continuation of ECHL partnership

The Detroit Red Wings announced earlier today that they'll be continuing their partnership with their ECHL affiliate Toledo Walleye, a marriage that's lasted 12 years now. 

The Walleye, the affiliate of the Red Wings and the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins, agreed to a three-year extension that runs through the 2023-24 season. 

“We’re proud to continue the relationship between the Red Wings and the Walleye," said Red Wings assistant general manager Ryan Martin. "We’ve had a number of prospects for the Red Wings and Griffins who were able to jumpstart their professional careers in Toledo, and playing in front of a passionate fanbase and an organization committed to winning has been crucial in their development. Both the hockey and business staffs are among the best in all of minor-league sports and make the Walleye an ideal partner for our organization. We’re looking forward to seeing Toledo return to the ice this fall to continue their quest for a Kelly Cup Championship."

“The partnership between the Walleye and Detroit and Grand Rapids is one that we look forward to continuing," said Neil Neukam, Walleye Executive Vice President and general manager. "The history of Red Wings hockey is unparalleled and we are excited to be a part of the future. We are humbled to be able to extend this partnership between our organizations for another three years. It’s a testament to the dedication of the Walleye coaching, support staff, and front office, as well as the great fanbase in Toledo. We look forward to continuing our pursuit of the Kelly Cup and helping develop players for the next level.”

Since re-entering the ECHL in 2009, the Walleye have competed in one Kelly Cup Finals (2019), won a total of four division championships and two regular season titles (2014-15, 2016-17 respectively), and have qualified for ECHL’s postseason in seven years.