Devils add imposing defenceman MacLean to roster

Steven MacLean played four years at Wilfrid Laurier University before turning professional

Cardiff Devils have signed Canadian defenceman Steven MacLean to bolster their squad following injury to forward Cedric Lacroix.

MacLean, 27, has spent the last two seasons playing with Cincinnati Cyclones in North America's ECHL, scoring three goals and 17 assists in 109 games.

The Ontario native cuts an imposing figure at 6'7" (2m) and 15st 6lbs (98kg).

Lacroix is expected to be out for between six to eight weeks with an upper body injury sustained last week.

Cardiff head coach Paul Thompson was already one player short on his defensive roster after teenage British defenceman Brodie Kay requested to be released from his contract in September.

"We have been looking for a defenceman for a few weeks now, and Steven is a good fit," said Thompson.

"He is a big strong defensive defenceman who skates well. Our defensive core has been great this season, but with Lacroix out short-term we always have the option to move [defenceman] Evan Mosey up front.

"Signing Steven gives us some options and also provides additional cover on the blueline for the season."

Cardiff won their opening two Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) games at the weekend with victories over Coventry Blaze and Nottingham Panthers, with captain Joey Martin scoring on his return after four weeks out injured.

The successful start to the Devils EIHL campaign came a week after Challenge Cup defeats at home by the same two sides which left Thompson fuming.