IceCaps president Danny Williams says his team was prepared for today's announcement that the Montreal Canadiens organization is moving its AHL team to Quebec.

The IceCaps issued a press release Monday saying it "remains committed to providing elite-level hockey to fans in Newfoundland and Labrador" despite the announcement Monday that its current AHL franchise will be moving to Laval for the beginning of the 2017-18 season.

In the statement, former premier Williams — who owns the IceCaps brand — said the organization has been looking for a new AHL partner as well as exploring options with other leagues.

The upcoming IceCaps season will be its last as the Montreal Canadiens' AHL affiliate in St. John's. The Canadiens announced Monday that it will move its affiliate from Newfoundland to Laval, Que., for the start of the 2017-18 season. (Colin Peddle/The Associated Press)

"Todays news is not really 'news' as our affiliation contract with the Canadiens is for two years with an option for a third, if the new arena being constructed in Laval is delayed," said Williams in the press release.

"Construction is right on time, which is public knowledge, so therefore there is no third year for us."

It's official: The IceCaps are outta here come the 2017-2018 season. We talk the future of AHL hockey with Don Power. 7:12

In the release, Williams called the Canadiens organization "first class" to work with.

"We are thrilled about the upcoming season and the exciting Canadiens prospects who will grace Mile One Centre ice this year," he said, according to the release. "We fully expect our incredible fans and corporate partners will embrace the opportunity to enjoy a final season as the top affiliate of hockey's most legendary franchise."