Minor League Hockey Teams In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is known for many things – from its vibrant history and diverse culture to its world-renowned cheesesteaks and pretzels. However, what many people don't realize is that the state is also home to some of the best minor league hockey teams in the country.
From the historic Hershey Bears to the exciting Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Pennsylvania has a rich hockey culture that dates back decades. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best minor league hockey teams in the Keystone State.
The Hershey Bears
Founded in 1932, the Hershey Bears are one of the oldest and most successful minor league hockey teams in Pennsylvania. The team is based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and is affiliated with the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League (NHL).
Over the years, the Hershey Bears have won numerous championships, including the Calder Cup (the championship trophy of the American Hockey League) 11 times. The team has also produced many great players, including future NHL stars such as Braden Holtby, Michal Neuvirth, and John Carlson.
The Lehigh Valley Phantoms
Founded in 1996, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms are a relatively new addition to Pennsylvania's minor league hockey scene. The team is based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and is affiliated with the Philadelphia Flyers of the NHL.
Despite being a young franchise, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms have already made a name for themselves in the AHL. In the 2017-2018 season, the team won its first-ever division championship and made it to the conference finals of the Calder Cup playoffs. The team's roster also includes many promising young players who could go on to have successful careers in the NHL.
The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins
Founded in 1999, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are another relatively new team in Pennsylvania's minor league hockey scene. The team is based in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and is affiliated with the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL.
Despite being a young franchise, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have already achieved a lot of success. The team has made numerous playoff appearances and has had many talented players on its roster, including current NHL stars such as Matt Murray and Jake Guentzel.
The Reading Royals
The Reading Royals are a minor league hockey team based in Reading, Pennsylvania. The team was founded in 1991 and is a member of the ECHL (formerly known as the East Coast Hockey League).
The Reading Royals have had some ups and downs over the years, but the team has always been a fan favorite. The team has won two ECHL championships (in 2013 and 2018) and has had many talented players on its roster, including future NHL stars such as Michal Neuvirth and Brayden Schenn.
The Pittsburgh Penguins
While not a minor league team, the Pittsburgh Penguins are still worth a mention in any article about Pennsylvania's hockey culture. The Penguins are one of the most successful NHL teams of the modern era, having won five Stanley Cup championships (in 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017).
The Pittsburgh Penguins have had many great players over the years, including Mario Lemieux, Jaromir Jagr, Sidney Crosby, and Evgeni Malkin. The team has a loyal fan base and is a source of pride for hockey fans across Pennsylvania.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania's hockey culture is rich and vibrant, with a variety of minor league teams that offer exciting hockey action for fans of all ages. From the Hershey Bears to the Pittsburgh Penguins, each team has its own unique history and tradition that make them worth checking out.
Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or just looking for a fun night out, be sure to catch a game featuring one of Pennsylvania's minor league hockey teams. You won't be disappointed!
