Sheffield Steelers feeling complete after capture of Swedish forward Andreas Valdix

The signing of 31-year-old Swedish centre Andreas Valdix has proved to be a waiting game worth playing for the Steelers’ head coach, who is now only two-and-a-half weeks away from getting his latest squad together on the ice together for the first time.

The experienced Valdix was picked in a round 4 NHL entry draft pick for the Washington Capitals (109th overall) back in 2003, although he never got to showcase his talent in the world’s top league, spending the majority of his career in his homeland.

For the last two seasons he played with HC Innsbruck in the Austrian EBEL but, prior to that, he racked up over 370 Allsvenskan games, with a further 117 appearances in the top-tier SHL.

Given his experience of coaching in both Sweden and Denmark, Thompson has had his eye on Valdix for some time, but is certain patience will prove to be a virtue once Steelers fans can see what he brings to their team.

“I waited a long time to get a player who I feel brings the skill set to complete our roster,” said Thompson.

“Andreas is big, a very strong skater and has outstanding vision. He has incredible puck possession and passing qualities, he is a perfect fit for us.

“Don’t be fooled by his point output last year in Innsbruck, we have signed a very complete player and centre.”

Thompson said further research was needed on Valdix, despite having seen him first-hand during his time on the bench in Aalborg.

“He has an outstanding two-way game and is a very educated player,” added Thompson.

“I’m a very happy coach right now. This has been a very long few months putting this team together. I can’t wait to get them on the ice in two-and-a-half weeks time so we can prepare for the games against Aalborg and then the CHampions Hockey League games against HV71 and Red Bull Salzburg.”