The photo is provided by Rapid City Rush.
On Friday, the Rapid City Rush, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Calgary Flames, announced the extension of their multi-year partnership with the Flames organization.
This expanded agreement now includes collaboration with the American Hockey League’s Calgary Wranglers as well.
“Rush and Flames have enjoyed a strong relationship, and we’re excited to continue it,” said Dave Smith, head coach and general manager of Rush. “The communication has been excellent, focusing on advancing each player’s skills in a competitive, championship-driven environment.”
During the 2024-25 season, seven players from Rush also spent time playing with the Wranglers in Calgary, totaling 72 games, with five making their AHL debuts last season.
Rory Kellins, a former Rush forward, made his NHL debut in January, becoming the first player to rise through all three levels of the Rapid City/Calgary system. He is the eighth former Rush player to reach the NHL.
Since the partnership began in 2022, a total of 14 Rush players have suited up for the Wranglers and Flames.
Brad Pascall, assistant general manager of the Flames, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded partnership, stating, “Calgary Flames are pleased to deepen the collaboration with Rapid City. Rapid City offers an ideal environment with excellent ownership, sharing our goals and values on player development.”
Since relocating from Stockton, California, the Wranglers have enjoyed winning seasons and playoff appearances in each of the last three years, including a successful 51-win season in 2022-23, the first under the Rush-Calgary partnership.
Meanwhile, the Flames continue to build on their momentum from winning the Stanley Cup three years ago.
“This is a big moment for the Rush organization,” said Jared Reed, Rush president. “Our bond with Calgary is stronger than ever. The dedication of our players to growth, shared vision, and pursuit of victory makes this true partnership, and we’re thrilled to keep it going.”
The Flames are the third NHL affiliate in the history of the Rush franchise. Previously, the Rush were affiliated with the Arizona Coyotes during 2015-17 and 2019-22, as well as the Minnesota Wild in the 2017-18 season.
Fan Take: This enhanced partnership underscores the importance of strong development pipelines in professional hockey, creating more opportunities for players to advance through competitive levels. For hockey fans, it signals a promising future where talent is nurtured more effectively, potentially leading to a higher caliber of play across leagues.
