Bakersfield Condors

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Bakersfield Condors a professional hockey team?

Yes, the Bakersfield Condors are a professional hockey team. Based in Bakersfield, California, the Condors compete in the American Hockey League (AHL), which is the top developmental league for the National Hockey League (NHL). The team was established in 2015 when the AHL expanded its presence on the West Coast, and the Condors are currently the primary affiliate of the NHL's Edmonton Oilers. As a professional team, the Condors feature skilled athletes who are either developing their talents for potential NHL careers or providing veteran leadership within the AHL. The team plays its home games at Mechanics Bank Arena, drawing enthusiastic hockey fans from Bakersfield and the surrounding region. The Condors' affiliation with the Oilers ensures a high level of competition and player development, making them a must-watch for hockey enthusiasts and those following future NHL stars.

How much do Condors players make?

The salaries of Bakersfield Condors players vary depending on their contracts, experience, and whether they are on NHL two-way deals or standard AHL contracts. Typically, AHL players can expect to earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per season. However, players on NHL two-way contracts can make significantly more when called up to the NHL, sometimes earning upwards of $700,000 at the NHL level while making an AHL salary when with the Condors. Entry-level contracts for younger prospects also follow a similar structure, with bonuses and incentives possible. While AHL salaries are lower than those in the NHL, the league provides a vital stepping stone for players working toward a full-time NHL career. For the most current figures, it's best to refer to team or league announcements, as player salaries can change with each season and negotiation.

Who is the new NHL team in 2025?

The new NHL team set to join the league in 2025 is the Utah Hockey Club, commonly referred to as the Utah NHL team. The franchise will be based in Salt Lake City, Utah, following the relocation of the Arizona Coyotes. This move was officially announced by the NHL in 2024, as the Coyotes' ownership agreed to sell the team's hockey operations to Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith. The team is expected to play its home games at the Delta Center, home to the NBA's Utah Jazz, while a new arena is considered for the future. The introduction of the Utah Hockey Club marks a significant expansion of the NHL's presence in the American West, bringing top-tier professional hockey to a new fan base and energizing the region's sports landscape.

Who are the Oilers Farm team?

The Bakersfield Condors serve as the primary farm team for the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL. As the Oilers' AHL affiliate, the Condors play a crucial role in developing young prospects and providing depth for the parent club. Players who excel with the Condors often get called up to the Oilers, where they have the chance to prove themselves at the highest level of professional hockey. This close affiliation means that the Oilers oversee player assignments, coaching, and development strategies for the Condors, ensuring a consistent pipeline of talent. The relationship benefits both organizations: the Oilers gain a reliable source of NHL-ready players, while the Condors receive top prospects and resources to compete at a high level in the AHL.

Who owns the Bakersfield Condors?

The Bakersfield Condors are owned by the Edmonton Oilers organization, which is itself owned by Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG), headed by Canadian businessman Daryl Katz. Daryl Katz acquired the Edmonton Oilers in 2008 and has since expanded the organization's reach, including the operation of the Condors as its top minor league affiliate. The Oilers Entertainment Group manages the Condors' business operations, player development, and community outreach, ensuring a strong connection between the AHL and NHL teams. This ownership structure provides stability, resources, and a clear developmental pathway for players in the Oilers system, benefiting both the Condors and the broader hockey community in Bakersfield.