Hodgman first new face for Steelers

Photo: NHL/Getty Images

Aaron Fox's roster for the 2021/22 season ahs been strengthened with the first new arrival to Sheffield.

Forward Justin Hodgman joins the Steelers after hitting 40 points in 33 games for Ferencváros in Hungary's cross-border Erste Liga last season, and 16 points in the same number of games for Krefeld of the DEL the previous campaign.

The 33-year-old began his European career with a 53-point season in Lahti, Finland, before spending four seasons in the KHL. On returning to North America, he played 62 games for Portland in the AHL (35 points), and was also called up to the Arizona Coyotes for whom he scored during one of his five games in the show. 

The Ontario native has also spent time in Sweden and the Czech Republic and played two seasons in the ECHL from 2017-19.

"Justin is a pure centre who will bring a ton of high-level experience with him," said Fox. "He’s a big body who plays a complete 200-foot game and skates well for his size. He’s a pass-first player who should give us a new dimension to our forward group and is excellent on the power play. He’s very excited to get in and compete for trophies".

Hodgeman added: I’m a playmaker, I like setting the boys up to score. Sure I will chip in myself, and who doesn’t love to score, but overall I love to create and make things happen.

"I know what I bring, but until the whole team is together in camp you never know what your required role will be. I know I have to produce every night and contribute towards winning.

“I think, I bring leadership as well. I have great experience in playing all over the world in a bunch of leagues, I’ve seen it all, so, I hope to add to the great leadership already returning to the team’s roster. There is an expectation to win in Sheffield and I like that. I want to win a Championship”