×
X logo

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox.

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)

You may opt-out anytime by clicking "unsubscribe" from the newsletter or from your account.

Nailers, Penguins Extend Affiliation Agreement

WHEELING — The Wheeling Nailers announced they have extended their affiliation agreement for two seasons with the National Hockey League’s Pittsburgh Penguins and American Hockey League’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Wheeling enters its 21st consecutive season as the ECHL affiliate for the Pittsburgh Penguins, which matches the longest active affiliation between an NHL team and ECHL team.

This season will also mark the 20th straight season the Nailers will be affiliated with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins dating back to their inception into the AHL in 1999. Over the course, 20 former Nailers have made their NHL debuts with the Penguins, including Casey DeSmith, who posted a 6-4-1 record in 14 appearances last season. Three of the 20 players got their names etched into the Stanley Cup as members of the 2017 championship squad.

“We are very happy to extend our relationship with the Pittsburgh Penguins,” Nailers Governor Don Rigby said.

“The entire organization has had tremendous success on the ice, as the Penguins won two Stanley Cups, while we reached the Kelly Cup Final in 2016. We look to continue to put a winning product on the ice, while helping players advance in their professional careers.”

In addition to their ability to develop players within the organization, Pittsburgh, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, and Wheeling also take great pride in putting winning teams on the ice.

Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton hold the longest active playoff streaks in their respective leagues as Pittsburgh has qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 12 straight seasons while Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has qualified 16 straight times.

Wheeling is one of four teams that has posted a winning record in the ECHL during each of the last ten seasons.

“The Pittsburgh Penguins are pleased to extend our relationship with the Wheeling Nailers for two more seasons,” Pittsburgh Penguins Assistant General Manager Bill Guerin said. “Wheeling plays an instrumental role helping to develop young talent for our organization in both Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. We look forward to continuing our partnership.”

The Nailers open the 2018-19 season on Oct. 13 when they face off against the Norfolk Admirals. Wheeling’s first home game is Nov. 3 against the Indy Fuel.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today