Drew Paris has Czech champions Bili Tygri Liberec in his sights.

The big defenceman from Montreal will be a key man for Cardiff Devils in their European Champions League home clash in Cardiff Bay on Thursday (7pm).

New signing Paris, a tough and imposing figure at 6ft 4ins tall, has a huge shot which is given more potency by the long stick he uses.

“Drew’s shot is deadly, while he’s a monster of a man who is tough in the corners and in front of the net,” says player-coach Andrew Lord.

“He is a pain to play against and I’m ecstatic about signing him. He has played in Sweden plus Germany’s DEL and moves well for a big man.”

Devils will look to use that big Paris one-timer on the powerplay against Liberec on Thursday and Swiss club HC Davos on Sunday.

Both CHL fixtures are at Ice Arena Wales.

Cardiff Devils' player-coach Andrew Lord

Lord first met Paris he played East Coast League hockey for Wheeling Nailers against Gwinnett Gladiators eight years ago.

“Drew was in the Gwinnett team and I remember him from those days,” said Lord. “We’ve talked to him for a year or two about playing in Cardiff.”

Former Devils player and bench coach Neil Francis, who now has a management role at the club, kept in touch with Paris and played a key role in bringing the blueliner to Wales.

Paris will combine playing European and Elite League hockey with studies at Cardiff Met.

“Our partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University made the signing possible,” said Lord, “Drew wants to study and knows the success our guys in the MBA programme have had on and off the ice the past few years.”

Paris, who played American League hockey for Toronto Marlies and Rochester Americans before coming to Europe, is excited about playing Champions League hockey at Devils’ packed home arena in Cardiff Bay.

“A big shot is one of my assets and I love to use it,” said Paris. “I enjoy playing a physical game in the corners and in front of the net.

“I spent three years playing in Germany and Sweden, but wasn’t able to play Champions League hockey. It’s cool to play against these top level teams.

“The two CHL home fixtures, against Liberec and Davos, are an awesome opportunity. We are taking on big name teams, but we are capable of coming up with a surprise.”