Shanghai Dragons Acquire Defenseman Colby Williams

The Shanghai Dragons have acquired Canadian defenseman Colby Williams in a trade with HC Sochi and signed him to a one-year contract. Sochi receives financial compensation in return.

Williams brings significant KHL experience to Shanghai, having previously played for Admiral Vladivostok, CSKA Moscow, Lada Togliatti and HC Sochi.

The defenseman has appeared in 234 KHL games, recording 51 points on five goals and 46 assists with a plus-11 rating. Last season, Williams split time between CSKA and Lada, finishing with 10 points (2G, 8A) in 50 games.

A dependable two-way defenseman, Williams adds experience, puck-moving ability and another strong defensive presence to the Dragons’ blue line.

Evgeny Artyukhin, General Manager of the Shanghai Dragons:

“Colby is an experienced defenseman who knows the KHL very well. He is a strong two-way player who can start the attack with a good first pass while remaining reliable in his own end.

“He has a high hockey IQ defensively, reads the game well and is willing to put his body in front of shots. He has consistently been among the KHL’s top players in blocked shots.

“Colby will add skill and experience to our lineup while also creating additional competition within our defensive group.”

Williams will wear No. 20 for the Dragons.

Shanghai Dragons Media Relations