Nailers Loan Derek Army to Milwaukee Admirals

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, have announced a transaction, which takes effect immediately. Wheeling has loaned forward Derek Army to the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals, who have signed him to a professional tryout agreement.

Army, 25, is currently playing in his third full season of professional hockey, and is about to make the climb to the American Hockey League for the second straight season. Last year, Derek suited up for four AHL clubs - the Portland Pirates, Ontario Reign, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, and Texas Stars. He combined to appear in 36 games, registering three goals, six assists, and nine points, before returning to Wheeling to help the Nailers in their journey to the Eastern Conference Championship. The North Kingstown, Rhode Island native tallied a pair of goals in Friday night's 5-4 Nailers victory against Utah at WesBanco Arena, lifting his totals on the season to seven goals, four assists, and 11 points in 18 games. In his career, Army has appeared in 123 games with Wheeling, amassing 47 goals, 57 assists, and 104 points. He was named to the ECHL All-Rookie Team in 2014-15, while leading the squad with 29 goals.

The Wheeling Nailers will finish their quick two-game series against the Utah Grizzlies on Saturday night at 7:05, which is Pittsburgh Pirates Night. Manager Clint Hurdle is the star attraction, while the Pirate Parrot and Bucco Brigade will also be a part of the festivities, and Wheeling will wear special jerseys. Fans can purchase Black & Gold Ticket Packages through the Nailers office, which guarantee VIP line access to meet the celebrities on Pittsburgh Pirates Night, Pittsburgh Penguins Night, and Steelers vs. Browns Night. To purchase tickets, or to get more information about season tickets, mini plans, group tickets, packages, and more, call (304) 234-GOAL.