Nailers Re-Sign Johnny Daniels

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, are excited to announce their seventh player signing of the 2017 offseason. Wheeling has signed forward Johnny Daniels to an ECHL contract.

Daniels, 24, came to the Nailers in February of the 2016-17 season, and maintained his spot on the roster all the way to the end, earning the opportunity to play a second season at the ECHL level. Johnny was involved in one of the most memorable moments of the campaign, when he scored a natural hat trick in a span of 57 seconds in a 6-4 victory against the Quad City Mallards on March 11th. He added three more goals and four assists during the remainder of the year, as he finished with six goals, four assists, and ten points in 25 games. Prior to his time in Wheeling, Daniels got a brief taste of the ECHL in December, when he suited up in three games with the Atlanta Gladiators.

"Johnny Daniels is a heart and soul player, who has good speed, great offensive ability, and is someone who the fans enjoy," said Nailers Head Coach Jeff Christian. "He has the confidence to play at the ECHL level, and I am looking forward to working with him in his first full season with the Nailers."

The Andover, Massachusetts native has two seasons of professional experience, which includes a significant amount of success in the SPHL. Johnny posted 34 goals, 32 assists, and 66 points in 80 games over the course of those two years. Before turning pro, Daniels attended St. Anselm College, where he majored in Engineering, while playing four years of college hockey. While with the Hawks, the forward appeared in 91 games, totaling 38 goals, 47 assists, and 85 points. His freshman year was his most productive in points, as he had 28, while he lit the lamp 11 times each as a junior and senior.

"Wheeling provided me with great opportunities to play and advance my career," Daniels said. "I am trying to elevate my career, and being surrounded by the talent we have here helps me become a smarter, faster, and better player. The fans are very interactive and they love their hockey, making it fun to be a part of."

Johnny Daniels and the Wheeling Nailers will begin the 2017-18 season with two road games against the Greenville Swamp Rabbits on October 13th and 14th. The home opener at WesBanco Arena takes place on October 21st at 7:05, when the Nailers do battle with the Cincinnati Cyclones. To purchase season, flex, or group tickets, or to get more information on tickets and events, call (304) 234-GOAL.