COVENTRY Blaze have signed Canadian defenceman Connor Russell for the 2025/26 Elite League season.
The 29-year-old spent last season with the Jacksonville Icemen in the ECHL where he played alongside fellow Blaze recruit Ivan Chukarov.
The 6ft 2in blue-liner defenceman recorded 12 points (two goals, 10 assists) and a plus-22 plus/minus rating in 58 regular season games for the Icemen last season.
Blaze head coach, Kevin Moore said: “Connor embodies the tenacity we value in Coventry.
“He’s a tough, physical defender who always puts the team first.
“I’m excited to have him with us this season.”
Russell has spent the last four seasons in the ECHL, amassing 189 regular season and play-off appearances as he contributed 31 points (three goals, 28 assists).
Before turning professional in the 2021/22 season, the Guelph, Ontario native played three collegiate seasons with the University of Ottawa and Brock University (USports).
He also spent a year with the Dundas Real McCoys in the ACH.
During his junior career in the BCHL, Russell tallied 64 points (13 goals, 51 assists) in 163 games with the Prince George Spruce Kings, Cowichan Valley Capitals and Penticton Vees.
