USHL says all teams will return next season after OHL rumours

The USHL seems to be sending a message to the OHL with a statement on Monday.

The league announced that all 16 member clubs have signed declarations to compete in the 2025-2026 season.

“From NHL stars to NCAA champions and world-class coaches, the USHL is where the future of elite hockey begins,” USHL president and commissioner Glenn Hefferan said in Monday’s statement. “Together, we will continue to grow and solidify our position as the top junior league in North America.

“Our league provides the resources, structure, and competition necessary to develop the next generation of NHL stars. This is a testament to our unwavering commitment to being the preeminent leader in the hockey world.”

The news comes less than one week after Sportico reported that famed sports litigator Jeffrey Kessler had been retained by the Youngstown Phantoms and another team from the USHL.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported in December that the OHL’s aggressive expansion plan hit a hurdle after USA Hockey denied permission for the Phantoms and the Muskegon Lumberjacks to join the league.

Kessler confirmed to Sportico that he is advising two USHL teams on their different options moving forward, including possible legal actions if they are still denied permission to join the OHL.

The move to bring in Kessler comes at a turbulent time in junior hockey after the NCAA’s decision to allow CHL players to play college hockey starting next season.

Since that change earlier this season, the USHL has lost some of its top players to CHL teams as they’re now free to maintain their U.S. college eligibility.

Muskegon, Mich., and Youngstown, Ohio, if ever allowed to join the OHL, would give the league five teams in the United States.

The OHL currently has the Saginaw Spirit and Flint Firebirds in Michigan and the Erie Otters in Pennsylvania.