The Pittsburgh Penguins haven’t been the only local hockey team around having a busy offseason as their ECHL affiliate, the Wheeling Nailers have had a busy week as well forming their roster for the 2014-15 season.
Wheeling’s first move of the offseason was re-signing forward Patrick McGrath.
During his first season in Wheeling, McGrath became a fan favorite thanks to his willingness to drop the gloves.
The 21-year old played in 45 regular season games and six playoff contests with the Nailers in 2013-14.
McGrath had only one assist on the season, but garnered a reputation of a physical player. He led the Nailers with 18 fighting majors (tied for second most in the league) and was the fans choice for the Player of the Year Award.
The Nailers also re-signed defenseman Mike Ratchuk, who is coming off a very productive 2013-14 campaign.
Ratchuk tallied 15 goals, 29 assists, and 44 points in 69 regular season games with the Nailers, before tacking on a pair goals, two assists, and four points in 10 playoff contests.
He ranked first among ECHL defensemen in goals scored and even more impressive, six of his 15 goals were game winners. That led to Ratchuk earning All-ECHL Second Team honors.
In addition to the two signings, the Nailers also announced that they have made qualifying offers to seven players. Those plyers include: D Jake Areshenko, F Shane Bakker, D Paul Cianfrini, D Barry Goers, D Myles Harvey, F Max MacKay and F Zack Torquato.
An ECHL team can extend qualifying offers to up to eight players, of which no more than four can have veteran status.
The Nailers begin the 2014-15 season on October 18th at 7:35, when they play host to the Reading Royals at WesBanco Arena.
Photo Credit: Wheeling Nailers
