ECHL: New Mexico Goatheads Announces NHL Affiliate | Inside The Rink
HomeNHLECHL: New Mexico Goatheads Announces NHL Affiliate
The ECHL’s newest team, the New Mexico Goatheads, have announced that they’ll be affiliated with the Colorado Avalanche. It is a multi-year affiliation deal between the two sides beginning in the 2026-27 season. New Mexico also revealed their mascot today as well. The hope is that all 32 ECHL teams will head into next season with an AHL and NHL affiliate.
This doesn’t come as a surprise, as the Avalanche have been affiliated with the Utah Grizzlies for the past eight seasons, but with the Grizzlies being relocated to Trenton, NJ, it’s no surprise the Avalanche were looking for a new ECHL affiliate. As a new team to the ECHL, Colorado will look to help supply the Goatheads with some solid pieces as they begin to build their roster this Summer. During the 2025-26 season, four former ECHLers have appeared in a game for the Avalanche, including Scott Wedgewood, MacKenzie Blackwood, Trent Miner, and Jack Ahcan.
“This partnership is about opportunity and growth,” said Goatheads General Manager Jared Johnson. “Aligning with the Avalanche on a multi-year agreement gives our players a defined development path while delivering high-level hockey to our fans from day one.”
New Mexico Goatheads General Manager Jared Johnson on the affiliation agreement
Mascot Unveiled
Along with announcing their NHL affiliate, the Goatheads also unveiled their team mascot, Billy. This makes sense, as New Mexico is also incorporating the Billy Goat not only to their team name but also to the mascot as well.
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Inside The Rink ECHL Manager | Senior Editor
Credentialed Reporter for the Adirondack Thunder & Worcester Railers.
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