40th Nailer Makes It To NHL
Published on November 16, 2009 under ECHL (ECHL)
Wheeling Nailers News Release
Pittsburgh, PA - Mark Letestu became the 40th ever Wheeling Nailers player to make it to the NHL when he debuted for the Pittsburgh Penguins this weekend. Letestu had been up with the Penguins a couple of other times this season but had yet to see action until Saturday, November 14th when he debuted in a 6-5 overtime win against the Boston Bruins. Congratulations Mark!
The ECHL has sent around 420 players total onto the NHL and the Wheeling Nailers hold the record for a single team with 40. Letestu is the second Nailers alum to make it this year joining David Laliberte who scored a goal in his debut with the Philadelphia Flyers on October 31st.
The 24 year old Letestu played 8 minutes in his first big league game and finished with a rating of +1. Last year the Elk Point, Alberta native was one of the top scorers for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Baby Penguins finishing 4th in goals, 3rd in assists and 3rd in points at 24-37-61. He suited up for the Nailers in 07-08 playing 6 games and scoring 1 goal and 2 assists.
Last year five former Nailers made their NHL debuts including Paul Bissonette (PIT, now with PHX), Cam Paddock (STL), John Curry (PIT), Tim Wallace (PIT) and Kurtis McLean (NYI).
And the beat goes on as the Wheeling Nailers continue to build on their record of having the most representatives make it to the NHL. Who will be #41?! Stay tuned!
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- Letestu Becomes 418th ECHL Player To Reach NHL - ECHL
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- Grant And Haddad Get The Call - Wheeling Nailers
- 40th Nailer Makes It To NHL - Wheeling Nailers
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