Canadian forward Chase Pearson has joined Nottingham Panthers ahead of next season.
The 27-year-old boasts extensive experience in North America and Europe, including a stint in the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings.
Pearson was selected by the Red Wings during the 2015 NHL Draft after scoring 78 points across two seasons in junior hockey for the Youngstown Phantoms.
He played college hockey at Maine in the NCAA – featuring alongside current Panthers forwards Tim Doherty and Mitch Fossier.
Having spent much of his career in North America, Pearson moved to Europe for the 2023/24 season, joining Slovakian side HK Dukla Michalovce.
During his time with the club, Pearson averaged more than a point per game before transferring to the ICEHL, linking up with Austrian side Villacher SV.
“Chase’s pedigree speaks for itself,” said Panthers head coach Danny Stewart, who signed a new multi-year deal with the club back in April.
“He’s a big centre that can play all situations. He’s a great player on both sides of the puck, and very difficult to handle for opposing players.
“This is a big signing for us. He has some history with a couple of our guys, and they can’t say enough good things about him.”
Pearson ready for new chapter
Ahead of his move to the UK, Pearson said: “I’m excited for the challenge and it’s going to be a new experience for me.
“I’m going to get an education and play hockey at a high level.
“Mitch [Fossier] and Tim [Doherty] are a huge reason why I am signing in Nottingham. They were in my class, so I have known them for a long time.
“I talked to Mitch about coming to Nottingham, and he said it’s one of the craziest atmospheres he’s ever played in and the fanbase is behind the team the whole time.
“That’s another big reason for me coming. I want to play in a fun atmosphere in front of fan base that is passionate about the game.”
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