The AHL development rule could be the downfall of free agency and a true learning experience for NHL preparedness.

Most times, when seasoned AHL players reach the end of the line, the young players left behind have to seek guidance from veterans with only two or three seasons of experience. That’s hardly enough leadership to truly grasp the competitive nature of the league, especially for first-timers.

What is the development rule?

According to the AHL’s official FAQ, the rule is strict and straightforward:

“Of the eighteen (18) skaters (not counting two goaltenders) that teams may dress for a game, at least thirteen (13) must be qualified as ‘development players.’ Of those 13, twelve (12) must have played in 260 or fewer professional games (including AHL, NHL and European elite leagues), and one must have played in 320 or fewer professional games. All calculations for development status are based on regular-season totals as of the start of the season.”

How does this affect the players?

Development players have quietly become trade chips, especially during the offseason.

Throw in a player with potential, even if he’s not quite ready, and the deal looks better on paper. It is easier to bring someone up in the organization’s style and have them waiting for their chance.

For example, Nikolai Kovalenko was included in a trade to the San Jose Sharks to make the addition of Alexandar Georgiev more appealing. Kovalenko had promise, but wasn’t quite NHL-ready. His inclusion sweetened the deal.

Losing seasoned players takes a toll on team culture, locker room chemistry, and leadership on the ice.

In the 2023–2024 season, Brad Hunt served as team captain for the Colorado Eagles (COL)and brought exactly that. He helped foster a competitive, yet welcoming environment and led by example with 16 goals and 33 assists.

Even with that showing and his value off the ice, the Colorado Avalanche chose not to re-sign him. The Hershey Bears (WSH)  picked him up, but only played him in 41 games. They did not extend his contract either.

With no further interest from AHL or NHL teams, he’s now rumored to be looking at the SHL. He leaves behind 422 AHL games of experience that won’t be passed on to the next group of players.

He’s not the only one.

The Milwaukee Admirals (NSH) are also losing true veteran, Cal O’Reilly who began his AHL career in 2004–2005 and played in over 1,000 games. Instead of mentoring the next generation, he’s headed to Switzerland to join the SCL Tigers.

 

What next?

There’s an argument that the development rule protects prospects who may never actually be ready for the NHL. Some say that if a player has spent that much time in the AHL without breaking into the NHL, there should no longer be a path for them to make it at all.

But that raises a bigger question. If these players aren’t being given a chance at the NHL level even after productive AHL careers, then why is there also no space for them to stay in the AHL and lead?

There are two schools of thought here, and no perfect answer. The AHL develops future NHL talent, and stripping away its veteran core does more harm than good. A team can draft well, they can develop and train, but they can’t bring experience without someone to lead. And right now, the development rule is forcing it out the door.