(Supplied by Portland Winterhawks)

By David Opinko

WHL ensuring “smooth transition” as Portland Winterhawks’ parent company files for bankruptcy

May 10, 2020 | 3:21 PM

PORTLAND, OR – The Western Hockey League (WHL) says it is doing everything it can to support one of their teams.

According to a report from Oregon Live, Portland Winterhawks Inc. filed for Chapter 15 bankruptcy on Thursday, May 7, just six weeks after the league cancelled this year’s playoffs over COVID-19 restrictions.

The WHL said in a statement Sunday that they are aware of the situation and are “working closely with the Receiver and the Winterhawks team management to ensure the smooth transition to new ownership in short order.”

President Doug Piper, General Manager and Head Coach Mike Johnston, and the executive staff will remain with the team.

“The Winterhawks are a highly successful and valuable WHL franchise, and we expect that there will be a great deal of interest in obtaining ownership of the Club.”

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

The WHL assured fans, sponsors, and community partners the same “championship-level services and results” they are used to during the transition of ownership.

No further comments will be provided by the WHL or Portland Winterhawks for the time being.

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the Lethbridge News Now newsletter here. You can also download the Lethbridge News Now mobile app in the Google Play and the Apple App Stores.