The Cardiff Devils have added size and point-scoring ability to their attack, with the signing of forward Brandon Alderson on a one-year contract.
“We are delighted to add Brandon to our group,” said Devils head coach Pete Russell. “Brandon is a big, powerful forward with good offensive capabilities and experience. He moves well and plays hard.
“I coached against him two years ago in Germany DEL2 and he was a player we were always aware of when he was on the ice either five-on-five or on the powerplay.
“He will add something different to our group, create further healthy competition and with the games piling up as we move forward, we want to create a roster that can support injuries that come up.”
Who is Cardiff Devils forward Brandon Alderson?
Alderson is a 31-year-old forward with a wealth of experience across professional rinks in North America and Europe.
The Oakville-born attacker was an accomplished scorer in the major junior Ontario Hockey League, posting 157 points (69 goals, 88 assists) in 267 regular-season appearances for the Soo Greyhounds and Sarnia Sting.
Alderson parlayed his impressive junior career into a four-season stint in the ECHL, recording 55 points (26 goals, 29 assists) in 45 appearances in his final season on the East Coast.
Moves to Germany (DEL2/DEL3), Austria (EBEL), Slovakia (Extraliga), and Czechia (Extraliga) would follow for the Canadian, culminating in a 79-point campaign for the third division Hannover Scorpions last time around.
Where will Brandon Alderson fit into the Cardiff Devils’ line-up?
Alderson plays a sturdy, physical two-way game and projects as a middle-six forward for the Cardiff Devils.
In the early weeks of the season, Russell has rolled with a combination of Trevor Cox, Joey Martin, Justin Crandall, Cole Sandford, Cole Ully, and Jamie Arniel in the top half of his line-up.
Brandon Alderson, now of the Cardiff Devils (Image: Leigh Valley Phantoms)
Adding Alderson to the mix will allow the Devils to add even more of a physical edge to their game, which will see Cardiff lean further into their style of play.
He will also feature prominently on the powerplay, crashing around in front of the crease to create chances for Cardiff’s creative forces.
How will Brandon Alderson impact the Cardiff Devils’ title hopes?
Alderson is a smart veteran addition for the Devils, who have made a fast start to the season, with three wins and one loss.
Cardiff were widely considered as title contenders before the puck dropped and this addition only improves their chances.
While the Belfast Giants and Sheffield Steelers also look the part, the Devils have been impressive to open the year and have the benefit of reliable goaltending from Ben Bowns.
Alderson adds another string to Russell’s bow, which bodes poorly for Cardiff’s Elite League rivals.
