Penguins End 29-Year Nailers Link, Tie Up with Everblades in ECHL Shakeup
After 29 years, the Pittsburgh Penguins will end their ECHL partnership with the Wheeling Nailers and instead affiliate with the Florida Everblades, following ownership changes that brought the Hoffmann Group to the Penguins. The Everblades are a Kelly Cup champion and draw strong attendance, while Wheeling will seek a new NHL affiliation as several teams currently have openings in the ECHL.