EVERETT -- The Everett Silvertips added depth to their blue line Friday with the signing of defenseman Tyler Kieffer.
Kieffer, an 18-year-old from Stillwater, Minn., had been playing with the Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League. Listed at 5-foot-11 and 200 pounds, Kieffer had one assist and 18 penalty minutes in 19 games as a rookie with the Stars this season.
Though he was not selected in the 2007 NHL draft, Kieffer was listed in the NHL Central Scouting Bureau's rankings, being projected as a sixth-round pick. He had previously committed to play in the NCAA at St. Cloud State University.
Kieffer is described as a good open-ice hitter. He gives Everett eight defensemen on its roster. Though he has joined the team, he is not expected to play this weekend.