The Bruins have moved onto their third ECHL affilate since 2011, entering into an affiliation agreement with the Gladiators of Gwinnett, GA. The Gladiators were the Thrashers affiliate when that franchise existed, and have cycled through sevaral affiliations with various NHL teams before landing with the Bruins for 2015-2016.
The Gladiators have served as a development spot for numerous AHL players, including Providence's own Colin Stuart. Although it's a bit further away than Reading (Pennsylvania) or South Carolina (home of the Bruins' former affiliate, the Stingrays), the Gladiators have a good history and play in a highly entertaining division.