The Portland Pirates were a professional ice hockey team based in Portland, Maine. They played in the American Hockey League (AHL) from 1993 until 2016. The team was affiliated with several National Hockey League (NHL) franchises, including the Florida Panthers and the Buffalo Sabres. The Pirates were known for their competitive spirit and contributed to the development of many players who later succeeded in the NHL. During their time in the AHL, the Pirates won the Calder Cup in 1994, marking a significant achievement in the franchise's history. The team played its home games at the Cross Insurance Arena, which became a hub for hockey fans in the region. Despite their eventual relocation, the Pirates left a lasting legacy in Portland's sports community.