Newz Forum: HOCKEY: Panthers sign defenseman Hill

Sunrise, FL (Sports Network) - The Florida Panthers Thursday signed defenseman Sean Hill to a two-year contract with an option for a third season. Financial terms were not revealed.

Hill played in 80 games for Carolina last season and paced all Hurricane defensemen in points with 39 (13 goals, 26 assists).

"Sean is a veteran player who adds another dimension to our lineup," said general manager Mike Keenan. "He demonstrates great leadership skills with younger players and he is very familiar with the Southeast division. Sean was Carolina's No. 1 defenseman last season and he can log a lot of ice time, while also contributing to our club offensively."

The 34-year-old Hill has also enjoyed stints with Montreal, Anaheim, Ottawa and St. Louis during his 14-year NHL career. He has totaled 57 goals and 187 assists in 682 contests.