This decision destroyed the hopes of the I-71 connection that would’ve benefited the Columbus Blue Jackets farm system.
The Blue Jackets, currently without an ECHL affiliate, were likely hoping for this connection due to the closeness of the Cincinnati Cyclones. Having an ECHL and AHL affiliate right down and up the road, respectively, would have been convenient.
That being said, it doesn’t completely make things difficult for the organization. Of the main players on the Blue Jackets this past season, only Brandon Dubinsky has played an ECHL game. Dubinsky’s brief stint with the Alaska Aces came because of the 2012-13 NHL lockout.