AHL Hockey Near Me: Tickets & Schedule for 2024/2025 Events

AHL Hockey

Based in the United States and Canada, AHL plays as the primary developmental league for the NHL (National Hockey League). This professional ice hockey was initially known as the I-AHL and later in 1940 monikered as the American Hockey League after several seasons.

Over the years, the American Hockey League became popular, and the number of teams grew. Since 1937, the AHL teams have been competing in the annual playoff championship for the renowned Calder Cup. It was named after Frank Calder, the first president of the American Hockey League.

The AHL's rules, team play, and amazing goals motivate fans to watch and attend the games. AHL fans supposedly preferred high fighting and high scoring games.

The Historical Season That Boosted AHL's Popularity

The 2001-02 season is a marked year in the history of this professional hockey league. The year had a tragic beginning because of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City, and Mark Bavis and AHL alumni Ace Bailey was among the victims. However, the season ended with the top 17 teams having a difference of 12 points. In addition, the format of the playoff championship extended to 20 participants. Finally, the Chicago Wolves won the Calder Cup championship trophy in their first season in the AHL.

Until recently, the Calder Cup was the oldest and most popular professional ice hockey playoff trophy awarded to the champions until recently. However, the AHL's playoffs didn't occur in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19. So eventually, the most current winners are the Charlotte Checkers of 2019.

The Most Awaited 2021-22 AHL Calder Cup Season

This 2021-22 AHL is the 86th professional ice hockey league season. Fans and spectators were eagerly waiting for the Calder Cup playoffs that have been called off since 2019. However, after the regular season ended on April 30, 2022, the playoff battles finally commenced on May 2, 2022.

Twenty-three teams will be battling for the 2022 Calder Cup trophy. However, the Calder Cup Finals will be played by the top seven teams. Onlookers are expected to return with the same passion and excitement as the league returns to its normal schedule with new alignments and team relocations, lightening the pandemic restrictions.

The AHL business executives may change the rules many times to reduce fighting or boost scoring. But AHL fans watch or attend the games with the same eagerness and curiosity, cheering their favorite team players.

So AHL fans, get ready to rev up your teams. The Atlantic Division Semifinals are bellying up, followed by the North and Central Division Semifinals.