Veteran forward Craig Armstrong has agreed to a new deal with the Wheeling Nailers, committing to the franchise for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign. The agreement marks the third professional season for the Alberta native, who spent the previous year polishing his game in Wheeling.
A Familiar Face Returns
After a modest rookie showing, Armstrong’s production surged, nearly doubling his point total to 35 points over 68 regular‑season games, and he added five more in the postseason.
His impact was reflected in a team‑leading plus/minus of +29, the best single‑season rating for a Nailer since the early 2000s.
A product of the Western Hockey League and the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League, Armstrong previously posted a career‑high 39 points in Chicoutimi and served as an alternate captain, experiences that have prepared him for a leadership role in Wheeling.
The re‑signing underscores the Nailers’ confidence in Armstrong’s ability to mentor younger teammates while contributing offensively on the ice.
Club officials highlighted his growth trajectory as aligning with the organization’s long‑term vision, suggesting that his presence will help sustain the team’s competitive edge.