The Dallas Stars announced that they’ve extended their affiliation with the Idaho Steelheads for the next two seasons; the two sides have been affiliated since the 2005-06 season as well as serving as their affiliate during the 2003-04 season as well. Idaho has done well as Dallas’ affiliate as the Steelheads have made the Kelly Cup Finals four times as the Stars’ affiliate and have won it twice; Idaho as a franchise had not missed the Kelly Cup Playoffs in 2004 and 2007. The 2022-23 season was a very successful one for the Dallas organization as all three levels of the organization made the post-season (Dallas; Western Conference Finals, Texas Stars; Central Divison Finals, Idaho Steelheads; Kelly Cup Finals), and all three of the head coaches coached in their respective league’s all-star game. When it comes to who was most successful, there’s no question it was the Steelheads who had the most successful season; they broke numerous records and had a season to remember. All 28 ECHL teams last year had an ECHL affiliate. Texas Stars GM and Dallas Stars assistant GM Scott White had this to say about the extension, “The Steelheads’ commitment to the development of their players is reflected in their exceptional performance on the ice,” “We are very pleased to extend our partnership with them for the next two seasons.”
