Jeff Hutchins excited by Dundee Stars’ swoop for John Mitchell

Dundee Stars coach Jeff Hutchins predicted that newcomer John Mitchell will be a potent threat in the Elite Ice Hockey League next season.

The 28-year-old from Wisconsin joins the Tayside team after playing more than 200 games in the American Hockey League and East Coast Hockey League.

Hutchins clinched the deal after watching videos of Mitchell and receiving glowing reports from connections in North America.

The former University of Wisconsin star is another major addition for the Stars, who finished third in last season’s Elite League the highest ever placing of a Scottish team in Britain’s top division.

Dundee also won the Gardiner Conference, their first major trophy, and Hutchins is determined to build on that.

The former Great Britain star said: “John is a skilful left-winger and I believe he will be a really good player for us, particularly if he plays alongside two skilled guys.

“A friend in America tipped me off about him and he’s flown under the radar.

“He’s competitive and excited about coming here and he knows what we achieved last season. He sees the potential here and we’re glad to have him.”