The Golden Knights yesterday formally announced the Chicago Wolves will serve as the team's AHL team, and in Chicago, Jeff Arnold cites sources as saying that it is a "five-year affiliation deal." The Wolves were the Blues' AHL affiliate for the last three seasons (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 5/17). In Las Vegas, Steve Carp notes the Golden Knights "probably won’t have an ECHL affiliate this season and will reassess the situation" after the '17-18 season. Reno is "expected to join" the league in '18-19 and "could be a possible landing spot" for the Golden Knights (LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL, 5/17).
WE'LL BE WATCHING YOU: The AP's Brett Martel noted a "second straight non-playoff season will not cost" Pelicans Senior VP/Basketball Operations & GM Dell Demps and coach Alvin Gentry their jobs. However, the patience Pelicans Owner Tom Benson and Exec VP/Basketball Operations Mickey Loomis "will have with the pair once the season starts is another matter" (AP, 5/15). In Baton Rouge, Scott Kushner cited a league source as saying that while ownership "approved the retention of the Pelicans’ top brass, the franchise has 'high expectations' entering the upcoming season" (THEADVOCATE.com, 5/15).
INTERSTATE LOVE SONG: In Atlanta, Phil Hudson noted in conjunction with the reopening of I-85, the Braves will "offer tickets for $8.50 and below for five games through May 24" during their homestand beginning tonight against the Blue Jays. The Braves will also "recognize C.W. Matthews Contracting Company as well as the Georgia Department of Transportation" tonight. Braves President of Business Derek Schiller said that "all of metro Atlanta was impacted by the I-85 bridge collapse, and the team wanted to show its appreciation and gratitude for the tireless efforts" of both groups (BIZJOURNALS.com, 5/16).
