SAINT PAUL, Minn. – An agreement was announced today between the Minnesota Wild organization and the ECHL Johnstown Chiefs. The Chiefs will serve as the Wild’s secondary minor league affiliate, behind the Houston Aeros of the AHL.

In a press release today Chiefs Owner Neil Smith said, “"This is a great opportunity for the Johnstown Chiefs to work with the Minnesota Wild and the Houston Aeros. The Minnesota organization is led by outstanding hockey men in owner Craig Leipold and General Manager Chuck Fletcher. They are a player development-minded club and the agreement will benefit all three teams including the Wild, the Aeros, and our Johnstown Chiefs.”

From the Wild’s perspective, Wild Assistant to the GM / GM of the Houston Aeros Jim Mill had this to say, ““The Johnstown Chiefs have a long and storied history in hockey, and the Wild and Aeros are pleased to partner with them for the 2009-2010 season. Fans need to look no further than Derek Boogaard, who began his career in the ECHL, to see how vital a secondary minor league partner can be.”

This is the fourth ECHAL affiliate the Wild have had, after brief associations with the Texas Wildcatters, Louisiana Ice Gators, and Jackson Bandits. The Wild have had several prospects play for the Florida Everblades as well, but never formalized a relationship.

The author can be reached at bryan.reynolds@prohockeynews.com