Nottingham Panthers have signed Canadian defenseman Kyle Hardy from Swedish club Tingsryds AIF.

The Montreal-born player has been one of the top points scorers from the blueline in the top league in France for the past four years before moving to the Allsvenskan this season.

Head Coach Corey Neilson commented: “We’ve been patient throughout the recruitment process both now and in the summer. We had boxes that needed ticking if we were to add to the roster we already have.

“We wanted a D-man with a left shot who could jump into the plays. We wanted someone who can stick to the systems and we wanted someone who can read the game.

“The references I had on Kyle immediately ticked those boxes and more, and we all particularly liked the references to him being very mobile, a team player, a leader and someone who hates to lose. One respected former coach told me he is a very sour loser.

“Guy Doucet came to this league after success in France and we’d all like to think Kyle can do something similar.”

Hardy said he was very excited to join the Panthers: “I’ve heard nothing but good things about them and the organisation. They’ve been having a great season so far and I hope to help keep that going.”

(Image: Emily Simon)