With Brett Neumann being side-lined the Steelers have moved to sign 25 year old American Patrick Harper until the end of the season.

Born in New York Harper studied at Boston University and played along side Brien Diffley

In 2016, Harper was drafted by Nashville in the 5^th round, 138^th overall.

Patrick went on to play a season and a half in the AHL and ECHL before heading to Europe and to HPK in Liiga (Finland)

The following season saw a move to Sweden and Mora HK followed by Kristianstads IK

This year Patrick played back in North America for South Carolina Stingrays where he scored 16 points in 31 games

Head coach Aaron Fox said “Patrick is coming in with a very interesting resume. 

“At only 25 years old he has already spent time in Liiga and the Alsvenskan leagues in Europe.  So he comes in with some high end European experience.

“He’s also won the Gold and Bronze medal at the U20’s with Team USA on a couple star studded teams.

“He’s an undersized player who skates well and can make plays at a high level. His Hockey IQ is off the charts, and I would consider his play in transition and on the PP a real strength in his game. 

“Patrick is coming in with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove.   With the injury to Neumms and the deadline coming up we wanted to make sure we could add someone that we felt could come in and help us in a couple different roles if needed. He understands our situation and is looking to compete hard and also fit into the locker-room well. 

“Patrick played in college with Diffley so that’s always nice to have an idea of what kind of character he is bringing with him”.