The Stingrays continue to strengthen their back end, even MOORE now, as the club has agreed to terms with 26-year-old Connor Moore. The veteran defenseman has accumulated 70 points in 150 games in his four seasons with the club. The Georgia native has spent his entire professional career in a Stingrays sweater and has sported an alternate captain patch for the past two seasons. Last season, Moore finished with (+30) during the regular season, the best in his career.
With Michael Kim and Benton Maass making trips to Hershey, Connor Moore was arguably South Carolina’s most reliable and consistent defenseman last season. His leadership on the blue line and ability to move the puck on the power play saved South Carolina quite a few games last season when they were plagued with injuries. This signing is going to give Coach Kotyk the leadership he needs on the back end and potentially a captain contender if Andrew Cherniwchen or Justin Florek do not return this season, as Moore has played more games for South Carolina than any other active Stingrays player. Only 44 days until the puck drops on opening night, so there is plenty of time to see what else Coach Kotyk has up his sleeve, but I would keep Connor Moore on your radar for captain watch.
