The Colorado Eagles continue to build the depth in their roster as they re-sign forward Neil Shea. The contract will be for a one-year AHL contract. Last season, the American earned his way onto the Eagles roster in November with a fantastic start in Utah. In just the first five games with the Utah Grizzlies, Shea tallied five goals and three assists. He would spend roughly the next month with the Eagles, playing eight games. Shea continued his fiery streak, scoring a goal in his first game with the Eagles.

Neil Shea’s History

This will be Shea’s third full professional season since leaving Sacred Heart University and Northeastern University. While he attended school, the winger produced 67 points in 123 collegiate contests. He has seen most of his action in the ECHL, playing with the Newfoundland Growlers and Utah Grizzlies. In his 100 games in the ECHL, he has recorded 37 goals and 39 assists.

Shea has played only 15 total games in the American Hockey League with the Eagles, Chicago Wolves (CAR), and Toronto Marlies (TOR). He has tallied only two goals and three assists.

Style of Play

He will bring speed to the fourth line for the Eagles that can get around the corners. Shea has a very deceptive wrist shot that can easily trick the lower level goaltenders. He does not let up on the forecheck and plays a very classic collegiate style game. Expect to see a “never quit” attitude from the young forward.

Most fans do never think how one injury at the NHL level can affect the entire organization. If the Colorado Avalanche have to call someone up, so do the Eagles from the Grizzlies. So with the Avalanche already starting with a player injured (Logan O’Connor), the trickle down effect will happen. Shea could probably see some significant time at the start of the season with a player or two already gone.