Columbus Blue Jackets Secure New ECHL Affiliate, the Wheeling Nailers

On July 16, the Columbus Blue Jackets announced a two‑year affiliation with the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL, ending the Nailers' 28‑year partnership with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The agreement runs through the end of the 2026‑27 season and gives the Blue Jackets their first ECHL affiliate since 2023, completing their minor‑league ladder beneath their AHL affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters.

Blue Jackets assistant general manager Chris Clark said the partnership will “provide a great opportunity to promote our organization and the game throughout the region” and highlighted Wheeling’s long tradition of player development. The Nailers, founded in 1981 and one of the league’s original clubs, will now serve as the next step for prospects in the Columbus system.