Knodel brings size to Cyclones defense corps

Cincinnati, Ohio - Cincinnati Cyclones Head Coach Matt Macdonald has announced that defenseman Eric Knodel has signed a contract for the 2016-17 season.

The Cyclones are the ECHL affiliate of the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League and the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League.

Standing at 6'6" and weighing in at 225 pounds, Knodel split the 2015-16 season between the Utah Grizzlies and the AHL's San Diego Gulls. In 56 games with the Grizzlies, Knodel accounted for 22 points (7g-15a) along with 16 penalty minutes and a +7 rating. He skated in four games with the Gulls.

The West Chester, Pa. native split the 2014-15 season with the Orlando Solar Bears and the AHL's Toronto Marlies. In 57 combined games that year, Knodel accounted for 27 points (5g-22a) along with a +16 rating. He began his pro career in 2014 with the Marlies, following completion of his collegiate career, dishing out a pair of assists in 10 games.

Prior to turning pro, Knodel spent four seasons at the University of New Hampshire, and was named captain during his season year in 2013-14. In 116 games for the Wildcats, he accounted for 61 points (20g-41a), including a career-high 28 points (7g-21a) during his senior year.