Nailers Sign Two; Pens Add Depth in Goal

The Wheeling Nailers announced yesterday that the team has signed forwards Andrew Lord and Jonathan Ornelas.

Lord, 23, scored 17 points (6G,10A) in 37 games last season while playing his college hockey for R.P.I. Lord brings some decent size to the Nailers for next season at 6'3" and 200 pounds.

Ornelas, 22, scored 17 points (9G,8A) in 37 games for R.P.I. While Ornelas lacks in size (5'9", 175 pounds) he makes up in speed. He's basically the same kind of player as Aaron Clarke.

Both Lord and Ornelas played with former Nailer Kevin Croxton at R.P.I.


Earlier today the Pittsburgh Penguins signed two goaltenders that Nailer fans are more-than-familiar with, Adam Berkhoel and Curtis Darling.

Berkhoel split time last season between the Dayton Bombers and the Grand Rapids Griffins after being signed in the 2007 offseason by Detroit. In Dayton he went 23-17-3 and during his time in the AHL last season compiled a 10-14 record for Grand Rapids.

Berkhoel also spent time in the NHL with the Atlanta Thrashers going 2-4 and also backstopped the University of Denver to the 2004 NCAA title playing along side former Nailer, Jon Foster.

Darling, well was pretty much one of the few bright spots on the Nailers last season. After the Nailers season was officially over, Darling spent time in the AHL with Manchester making 12 saves on 12 shots.

This move basically gives the Pens some depth in goal in case something happens to Fleury, Sabourin or Curry as well as provide the Nailers with a veteran keeper or two. Berkhoel, Darling, or David Brown will be more-than-likely sent down to us at the beginning of the year.


Nailers under contract for next season
Aaron Clarke - F
Rob Sirianni - F
Andrew Lord - F
Jonathan Ornelas - F
Mike Gooch - D
Cliff Loya - D


Nailers With Qualifying Offers
Sean Berkstresser - F
Sean Collins - F
Steve McJannett - F
Tyson Marsh - D
Julien Brouillette - D
Chris Snavely - D
Todd Spencer - D
Curtis Darling - G