Story Created: Apr 16, 2014 at 6:05 PM EDT

Story Updated: Apr 16, 2014 at 6:51 PM EDT

UPDATE: The Vancouver Canucks have issued a statement regarding their relationship with the Comets, as well as their plans for affiliation with Utica in the future:

"The Vancouver Canucks are committed to our AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets and enjoy a strong relationship with our partner club. A strong base of Utica fans have shown tremendous support throughout the season and the Canucks intend to honour our long-term partnership agreement with the Comets."

UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - It was about this time last year when rumors began about the potential for Utica to become a host for a professional hockey team once again.

Initially people thought that the Calgary Flames would be moving their AHL affiliate, Abbotsford Heat, to Central New York.

However, the Vancouver Canucks ended up striking a deal, and they were the ones to bring the Comets here instead.

More here:

Utica Heat? Comets put rumors to rest, are here to stay