Click here to subscribe today or Login.
If you want to know what the fall foliage looks like in Maine or how the warm it is in January in southern California, Derek Army can tell you.
He’s been there, among other places this season.
And now, after leaving an impression during training camp, Army is back with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins – his fourth team this season.
Army started the season with Wheeling, went up to Portland for four games in November, spent December back in Wheeling, then headed west to Ontario, California to spend January with the Reign before joining the Penguins for his first game on Feb. 5.
Four teams, two leagues and two coasts.
How’s it feel?
“It’s one of those rides where you don’t know where you’re going to be, but that’s pro hockey,” Army said. “It’s not the ideal situation, but I’ll take it. That’s what I signed up for.”
Army spent his entire rookie season as a pro with Wheeling last year, and despite the stability he knew could become a frequent flier at any time.
“You see it happen to other guys after their first or second year. I was hoping to get the call (to the AHL) and fortunately it came early in the year. You just have to adapt and do whatever they need to to do,” he said.
Army proved he was AHL-ready last season when, as a rookie, he scored 29 goals and totaled 66 points in 72 games with the Nailers. He earned an invite to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton’s training camp and performed well.
Still, Army knew even if he left a positive impression, he had to be patient while waiting for a return trip back to the Penguins.
“It’s not right away,” he said. “Maybe you get a chance down the road, and here’s my opportunity to show what I can do.”
Donatelli coached Army in Wheeling last season and earlier this year and knows what he brings to the table. He acknowledged that Army’s four-team trek this season can be challenging, but added the 24-year-old is “mentally strong” enough to handle such a grind.
Donatelli also knows Army is close to becoming a full-time AHL player.
“He’s trying to break in and he’s knocking on the door,” Donatelli said. “He’s off to a good start and we’re happy to see that.”
Now, Army hopes he can stick with the Penguins and enjoy some stability before the season is over.
“You always feel the pressure and the nerves to do well. You have to block it out and play your game,” he said. “No matter where you go, there is always a lot of pressure and you just have to be able to fit in.”
NOTES
– One constant that has helped the newcomers to the Penguins transition easily into their new team is captain Tom Kostopoulos. “He’s been unbelievable. A great captain and he makes it easy for you to step in here,” Army said.
