COVENTRY Blaze have confirmed Swedish defenceman Jakob Stridsberg has been placed on long-term injured reserve.
Stridsberg is set to undergo surgery after sustaining an injury against the Dundee Stars on January 26.
The Swede has appeared in 42 games for Blaze in his first season with the club.
The 30-year-old blue-liner has contributed 23 points (four goals and 19 assists).
Blaze head coach, Kevin Moore said: “Losing Jakob is definitely a blow, he has been as consistent as any defenceman in our league.
“He is a special person, and as he rehabs, we will keep him involved with our group so that he can continue to bring us energy and be a part of this phase of the season.”
Blaze have responded to the injury by signing Canadian defenceman Brady Pouteau for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.
The 27-year-old arrives from ECHL club Rapid City Rush where he recorded 15 points (three goals, 12 assists) in 45 games this season.
Standing at 6ft 3in tall, Pouteau spent the 2023/24 season with the Fife Flyers.
Moore added: “Brady is someone who brings hard defending, a good stick, and experience playing a lot of minutes in our league.
“We feel that in our structure and culture, Brady will thrive, and we are excited to add another good person and hockey player to our mix.”
Pouteau will wear the number 28 jersey for Blaze.
Subject to international clearance, he is set to make his debut against Nottingham Panthers this weekend.
