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Lightning & Crunch Ink 4-Year Deal!
24 Jul
Summary
- Lightning and Crunch renewed affiliation through 2030 season.
- 104 players have played for both Syracuse and Tampa Bay.
- Syracuse has made playoffs in all but two seasons since 2010.
The Tampa Bay Lightning and Syracuse Crunch have solidified their partnership with a four-year extension of their affiliation agreement. This renewed commitment ensures the two organizations will remain connected through the conclusion of the 2029-30 season, continuing a relationship that has flourished over the past 14 years.
Since the affiliation began, a remarkable 104 players have donned the jerseys of both the Crunch and the Bolts. This player development pipeline proved particularly crucial for the Lightning in the most recent season, as they heavily utilized players from Syracuse amidst significant injuries to their NHL roster.
This extension highlights Syracuse's impressive turnaround, transforming from what was once considered a "hockey graveyard" into one of the American Hockey League's most successful franchises. During their partnership with the Lightning, the Crunch have consistently reached the postseason, qualifying in all but two seasons and advancing to the Calder Cup Final on two occasions.
Furthermore, Syracuse and Tampa Bay proudly maintain the longest active streak of any AHL affiliate and its NHL club both qualifying for the playoffs. This sustained success underscores the strength and effectiveness of their collaborative approach to player development and team building.
