League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Transactions

Penguins end 29-year affiliation with Wheeling Nailers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 7:52 PM

Last updated Jul 16, 2026

Penguins end 29-year affiliation with Wheeling Nailers

Summary

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced an end to their 29-year affiliation with the Wheeling Nailers on July 16, 2026. General Manager Kyle Dubas expressed gratitude for the partnership, highlighting the Nailers' quality operation. This decision follows the recent sale of the Nailers' franchise, which is anticipated to shift the Penguins' affiliation to the Florida Everblades. The Nailers, part of the ECHL, will remain a significant entity in the league.

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Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Penguins end their ECHL agreement with Wheeling Nailers
•The partnership lasted for 29 years
•Sale of Nailers franchise preceded decision
•New affiliation expected with Florida Everblades
•Kyle Dubas expresses appreciation for Nailers' operation

Latest Updates

3:26 AMYahoo Sports — Penguins Switch Up ECHL Teams, Ending League's Longest-Standing Affiliation
7:52 PMYahoo Sports — Penguins announce the end of affiliation with the Wheeling Nailers

What they're saying

"
The Pittsburgh Penguins have announced the end of their longtime agreement and affiliation with the Wheeling Nailers. The announcement was released Thursday afternoon and Kyle Dubas said in a statement that the team is grateful for the Nailers being partners with the Penguins for the last 29 years. “It is only because of very unique […]
— Yahoo Sports

"
The Pittsburgh Penguins officially ended their partnership with the Wheeling Nailers, ECHL affiliate of the organization for the past 29 years.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Pittsburgh Penguins Vegas Golden Knights NHL Hockey

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