While no official announcement has come from the NAHL offices, TJHN has learned that all players have been informed that they are now “free agents”.
Although there are two new NAHL teams already confirmed for the 2013-2014 season in the Minnesota Magicians and Minnesota Wilderness, no expansion draft will be held.
Jamestown had a very good young team, and its players are going to be hot comodities on the NAHL market. The frenzy of contacting players began last Saturday and has continued over the last three days.
The NAHL started last year with 24 teams. This season they have lost three in Jamestown, Kalamazoo and Fresno. Although Fresno has been rumored to be coming back, it now does not appear likely to happen. With the additions of the Minnesota based teams, the league stands at 23 members heading into the 2013-2014 season.
TJHN sources are providing conflicting reports over the last 24 hours. Some are saying that the CHL’s Tulsa Oilers have reached an agreement to join the NAHL, while others are denying any agreement has been made. Its no secret that Tulsa has been talking to the NAHL, for months. Other sources are reporting that another franchise will be added in Texas.
Either way, the NAHL appears to be moving forward with 24 teams for next year. The only question left to answer is; where will team 24 be located?
