Chicago Wolves

Frequently Asked Questions

What NHL team are the Chicago Wolves affiliated with?

The Chicago Wolves are a professional ice hockey team in the American Hockey League (AHL). As of the 2023-2024 season, the Chicago Wolves are operating independently and are not affiliated with any NHL team. Historically, the Wolves have served as the AHL affiliate for several NHL franchises, including the Carolina Hurricanes, St. Louis Blues, and Vegas Golden Knights. However, the team chose to operate as an independent franchise for the 2023-2024 season, making them the first AHL team in decades to do so. This means they are not directly developing players for any specific NHL team, instead relying on their own contracts and player signings. This unique status allows the Chicago Wolves more flexibility in roster management and player selection, but it also means they are not receiving assigned prospects from an NHL parent club. Fans interested in following the development of NHL-affiliated prospects with AHL teams will find the Wolves' independent approach to be a rare and intriguing situation in professional hockey.

How much do the Chicago Wolves get paid?

The salaries of Chicago Wolves players vary widely, as the team competes in the American Hockey League (AHL), where player compensation is generally much lower than in the NHL. Most AHL players, including those on the Chicago Wolves, earn annual salaries ranging from $50,000 to $150,000, depending on experience, contract type, and whether they are on AHL-only or two-way NHL contracts. Players on two-way contracts, who can move between the NHL and AHL, may earn a higher salary if called up to the NHL, sometimes receiving pro-rated NHL minimum salaries. In contrast, AHL-only contracts typically offer more modest compensation. Additionally, players can receive per diem and performance bonuses. Coaches and team staff salaries are negotiated separately. As an independently operated team for the 2023-2024 season, the Wolves sign and pay their own players, giving them more control over payroll compared to NHL-affiliated AHL teams. This financial structure helps the Wolves attract experienced players seeking more significant roles or stable playing opportunities.

Does Chicago have a minor league hockey team?

Yes, Chicago has a minor league hockey team

Where do the Chicago Wolves play hockey?

The Chicago Wolves play their home hockey games at Allstate Arena, located in Rosemont, Illinois, just outside of downtown Chicago. Allstate Arena is a premier multi-purpose venue with a seating capacity of approximately 16,500 for hockey games, offering fans an intimate yet electric atmosphere to experience live hockey action. The arena is easily accessible from Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, making it a convenient destination for both local and visiting fans. Allstate Arena features modern amenities, including comfortable seating, a wide array of food and beverage options, and ample parking, ensuring a memorable game-day experience. Since their founding in 1994, the Wolves have called Allstate Arena home, and the venue has hosted countless memorable moments, including championship runs and thrilling overtime victories. Whether you're a die-hard hockey enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, catching a Chicago Wolves game at Allstate Arena is a must for anyone looking to enjoy high-caliber minor league hockey in the Chicago area.

What channel is the Chicago Wolves game on?

The broadcast channel for Chicago Wolves games can vary depending on the game schedule and distribution agreements. Most Chicago Wolves home and away games are broadcast locally on The U, a popular Chicago television station also known as WCIU-TV, and occasionally on My50 Chicago (WPWR-TV). Additionally, select games may be available via AHLTV, the streaming platform operated by the American Hockey League, which provides live and on-demand coverage of all AHL games for a subscription fee. For radio coverage, games are often aired on WRMN 1410 AM and can also be streamed through the Wolves' official website. Fans are encouraged to check the Chicago Wolves' official website or social media channels for the most up-to-date broadcast and streaming information for each specific game. This ensures fans never miss a moment of Chicago Wolves hockey, whether watching from home, on the go, or listening in live.