Zion played for IK Oskarshamn in Sweden before joining Sheffield

Nottingham Panthers coach Corey Neilson believes new defenceman Jonathan Zion will also pose an attacking threat for the club next season.

The 29-year-old joins from arch-rivals Sheffield, after the Steelers signed him from Sweden in January.

Neilson said: "Jon is an offensive threat but also knows his job on the blueline. He brings a lot to the table.

"I can see him having a big role on special teams for us and also jumping into the play to help the forwards."

The Ontario-born blueliner was a fourth-round NHL draft pick for Toronto Maple Leafs in 1999, and played in the American Hockey League with Cincinnati, Portland, Manchester, Utah and Syracuse.

This is another key signing in our quest for more honours Corey Neilson

He has also had stints in the top-flight European leagues including Austria, Denmark, Norway and Sweden.

"He was one of the top defencemen in the Elite League last year and his skills shone out so it was no wonder a lot of clubs wanted to sign him for next year," added Neilson.

"With two D-men to sign and two forwards I have made no secret of the fact that I wanted a solid defenceman and another who would add more adventure up-front, an offensive-defencemen.

"In Jon that's exactly what we've got. I don't think we could have added a better player for the role that I have in mind.

"This is another key signing in our quest for more honours."

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