Nailers Sign Dan Milan

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, are excited to announce their 15th player signing of the 2017 offseason. Wheeling has signed defenseman Dan Milan to an ECHL contract.

Milan, 25, is a veteran defenseman, who will be entering his sixth professional season. Last year, Dan was a member of the Fort Wayne Komets, and he got his first taste of ECHL playoff success, as the Komets took down the Quad City Mallards in round one. Throughout his career, the blueliner has been known for his play in the defensive zone, in addition to his ability to mix things up physically. In 2014-15, Milan set a career high by receiving 178 penalty minutes with the Wichita Thunder, and was also productive offensively that season, totaling 17 points. Dan has appeared in 296 career games, playing in the AHL, ECHL, and CHL, recording six goals, 48 assists, 54 points, and 553 penalty minutes. He has eclipsed the 100-penalty minute mark in three of his five campaigns.

"Dan Milan has been a fan favorite everywhere he's been, and we're looking forward to bringing him in as a veteran defenseman on our team," said Nailers Head Coach Jeff Christian. "Dan is tough, gritty, blocks shots, and gets in players' faces. Opposing players hate playing against him, but our guys are going to love playing with him - he's definitely a character, and he will be good at teaching our younger guys what it takes to be a pro."

Prior to turning pro, the Detroit, Michigan native played two seasons of junior hockey, suiting up with the QMJHL's Moncton Wildcats and Victoriaville Tigres. His first season in Moncton was an electric one, as Milan finished second on the team in defensive scoring, collecting 14 goals, 24 assists, 38 points, and 76 penalty minutes in 68 games. Dan's second year was split between the two clubs, as he amassed 11 points and 73 penalty minutes in 62 games.

"I've gone to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's camp in the past, and this is a great opportunity for myself, with the reputation that Wheeling has," Milan said. "I like to do the extra stuff, get guys off of their games, and just really enjoy playing."

Dan Milan 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.