Nailers Receive Christian Hilbrich from Penguins

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, have announced a transaction, which takes effect immediately. The Nailers have received forward Christian Hilbrich from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Hilbrich, 24, earned his first opportunity to play at the American Hockey League level, when he was recalled to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on February 17th. During his time with the AHL Penguins, Christian appeared in three games - all of which were on the road, as the team faced Albany, Springfield, and Utica. Prior to that transaction, the forward had been enjoying a terrific rookie campaign in Wheeling, which was getting stronger as the season went along. The Port Credit, Ontario native was tied for second on the Nailers in scoring during the month of January, as he compiled nine goals, eight assists, and 17 points, including his first career hat trick on the 15th of the month at Kalamazoo. His season totals are 13 goals, 21 assists, and 34 points in 48 games, and his +22 rating is tops on the team.

Prior to turning pro, Hilbrich attended Cornell University for four years, where he was enrolled in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. On the ice, Christian appeared in 111 games, amassing 27 goals, 21 assists, and 48 points.

Christian Hilbrich and the Nailers will close out a stretch of seven straight road games over the weekend, when they visit Indy on Friday, followed by Fort Wayne on Saturday and Sunday. The next homestand at WesBanco Arena will take place on March 10th, 11th, and 12th. The 10th is a Flat Screen Friday and Frosty Friday at 7:35 against Quad City. The Mallards are the opponent on the 11th at 7:05, which is Duck Dynasty Night, starring John Godwin and Justin Martin, as well as a camouflage hat giveaway. Finally, the weekend wraps up on the 12th, which is Youth Hockey Day at 5:05 against Toledo. To purchase tickets, or to get more information about season tickets, mini plans, group tickets, and more, call (304) 234-GOAL.