Edinburgh coach Doug Christiansen believes the Capitals will be a force to be reckoned with this season after putting pen to paper with defender Mark Smith.

The 26-year-old plied his trade in America’s Central Hockey League last year but was forced to find pastures new after his club the Rocky Mountain Rage announced they weren’t going to field a team this season.

Smith – from Canada – bagged four goals and 13 assists in 43 games last season and Christiansen believes his signature all but completes his pre-season ambitions with the Capitals.

“Mark is a solid defender who has the ability to play against other teams’ top lines,” said Christiansen. “He is a good skater and will do well on our big ice.

“He has picked up a lot of experience in America and I think we will now have one of the best defensive units in the league.”