AHL team: Hamilton Bulldogs
NHL affiliate: Montreal Canadiens
Home rink: Copps Coliseum, Hamilton
NHLers on 2012-13 roster: Mike Blunden, Blake Geoffrion, Louis Leblanc
2011-12 record: 34-35-2-5 (did not make the playoffs)
2011-12 leading scorer: Brian Willsie, 44 points
What you need to know: The longest-serving Canadian AHL franchise is looking to return to the playoffs after a surprising last-place finish in the North Division last season. The Bulldogs had won the division the past two seasons prior to 2011-12.
While many teams around the AHL are getting a boost from NHLers eligible to play in the minor leagues, the Bulldogs are focused on a blooming group of young prospects in the Montreal Canadiens system.
After a strong showing in junior last season, Nathan Beaulieu, Morgan Ellis, Jarred Tinordi, and Brendan Gallagher are expected to join Aaron Palushaj, Louis Leblanc and Blake Geoffrion in Hamilton this season.
“Obviously it’s disappointing to not be able to compete for a spot in the NHL,” Leblanc told CBC Hamilton. “But I’m still excited to be back in Hamilton.”
New head coach Sylvain Lefebvre doesn’t have a strong group of veteran players to rely on in his first year as Bulldogs head coach, but his team boasts a strong blend of skill and speed that he should be excited about.
Tinordi and Beaulieu are expected to be strong assets in the defensive corps in 2012-13. Beaulieu, who was drafted by Montreal in the first round in 2011 (17th overall), is a reliable puck-moving defenceman who played a key role for the QMJHL’s Saint John Sea Dogs last season.
The 22nd overall pick in the 2010 Entry Draft, Tinordi is more of a stay-at-home, physical player who adds a needed toughness to Hamilton’s back end.
Expect the Bulldogs to contend for a playoff spot while focusing on developing key players for the Habs’ future.
Fun fact: Onetime Toronto Maple Leafs winger Paul Healey holds the Bulldogs’ single-season goal record with 39 (2000-01)
Cheapest ticket: $17
