The Checkers added depth to the defensive pool Wednesday, signing Florida Everblades’ blue liner Derek Sheppard to a two-way AHL contract.
The 24-year-old will remain in the ECHL with the Everblades, though the move now gives the Checkers the ability to recall Sheppard should the need arise.
Sheppard, who is in his first full pro season, currently leads all Everblades defensemen with six goals and ranks second with 13 points in 23 games after notching seven points (4g, 3a) in 10 games at the tail end of last season. Prior to turning pro Sheppard played two seasons in the QMJHL with Gatineau before starring for four years at York University, where he was a two-time conference Defenseman of the Year and named conference MVP once.