Coventry Blaze have confirmed James Isaacs’ short-term trial contract has been extended until the end of the season.

The 26-year-old Canadian defenseman initially signed a two-game trial deal with the club to cover for the suspended Boris Valabik.

Isaacs impressed Head Coach Chuck Weber sufficiently to earn an extension to his trial and has now agreed a further permanent deal.

Isaacs has played in all six Elite League games following his arrival, a run which has seen Blaze take nine points from a possible 12, including four victories.

“I’m very happy to be staying with the Blaze for the rest of the season,” said Isaacs. “I feel like some chemistry has developed on and off the ice with the team and that has turned into a great run of results recently.

“There is a good group of guys in the dressing room who work to be successful, day in, day out. I’m happy to be part of that. Chuck (Weber) and James (Pease) have been more than fair with me and I can’t say enough about how great the fans have been as well.”

Weber added: “We always said that this was an opportunity for James Isaacs to impress us and he has done just that.

“He works hard, keeps it simple and tries to execute exactly what we ask him to. He does a good job for us on the penalty-kill and I can’t ask for more from him.”

“James now has the chance to help us climb the ladder for the rest of the season and we’re pleased to have him.”

Pease, Coventry’s Director of Hockey Operations, said it was always likely Isaacs would earn a permanent deal and confirmed the search for a top-end forward wouldn’t be affected by the signing.

“The deal with Isaacs doesn’t impact that at all,” said Pease. “If and when we sign the player that we’re looking for, if we have to ‘carry’ a guy, then we can do that. It worked last year, leading to much success and there is no reason why it wouldn’t work this season.”

(Image permission: Scott Wiggins)