The Florida Panthers' development system extends beyond the NHL roster, with prospects gaining experience in the AHL and ECHL before earning opportunities in South Florida.

• Sign up for FloHockey to watch elite junior, college and professional hockey all year long
• FloHockey's 2026 NHL Draft Coverage
• FloHockey To Stream 2027 IIHF Men's World Championship In United States

For Panthers fans looking to follow the organization's future talent, understanding the affiliate structure can provide insight into where prospects develop and how they progress through the professional ranks.

Florida Panthers NHL Affiliate Map

The Panthers sit at the top of the organization's development pipeline. Players selected in the NHL Draft, signed as free agents or acquired through trades often spend time in the minor leagues before making the jump to the NHL.

NHL: Florida Panthers

The Panthers compete in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference and play their home games at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla.

AHL: Charlotte Checkers

The Panthers' primary affiliate is the Charlotte Checkers of the AHL.

Charlotte serves as the final developmental stop before prospects reach the NHL. The partnership has helped develop players who have gone on to contribute in South Florida, while providing the organization with a nearby location to monitor and develop talent.

Many of Florida's top prospects spend time with the Checkers as they gain professional experience and prepare for opportunities with the Panthers.

The Checkers compete in the Atlantic Division of the AHL's Eastern Conference and play their home games at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, N.C.

ECHL: Savannah Ghost Pirates

The Panthers' ECHL affiliate is the Savannah Ghost Pirates.

The ECHL provides another important level of development within the organization. Players assigned to Savannah can gain valuable playing time and continue refining their skills while competing against professional talent.

Goaltenders, younger prospects and depth players often benefit from ECHL assignments as they work toward larger roles within the Panthers system.

The Ghost Pirates compete in the South Division of the ECHL's Eastern Conference and play their home games at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, Ga.

Why Panthers Fans Should Follow The Affiliates

Following Florida's affiliates gives fans an opportunity to watch future NHL contributors before they arrive in Sunrise.

Many players who eventually become NHL regulars spend time developing in Charlotte and Florida. Strong performances at either level can lead to promotions within the organization and opportunities with the Panthers.

Tracking affiliate teams also helps fans understand organizational depth and identify prospects who may be next in line for NHL action.

How The Panthers Development Pipeline Works

Most prospects enter the organization through the NHL Draft, trades or free agency and begin their professional careers in the AHL or ECHL.

As players continue to develop, they can move up the organizational ladder. A prospect may begin with the Everblades, earn a promotion to Charlotte and eventually receive a call-up to the Panthers.

For Panthers fans, following the Checkers and Everblades provides a closer look at the organization's future and the players working toward NHL opportunities.

Watch the AHL, ECHL, QMJHL, OHL, USHL And More On FloHockey

FloHockey is the streaming home to some of the best hockey leagues in North America, including the ECHL and more. Check out the broadcast schedule to watch more hockey 

Join The Conversation On Social

• Follow us on X @FloHockey
• Follow us on Instagram @flohockey
• Follow us on TikTok @flohockeytv
• Watch us on YouTube
• Like us on Facebook