PITTSBURGH PENGUINS RE-SIGN CONNOR JAMES

WILKES-BARRE, PA – Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed forward Connor James, it was announced on Wednesday by Executive Vice President and General Manager Ray Shero.

James, 25, ranked eighth on Wilkes-Barre/Scranton with 37 points (9+28) in 64 regular season games during the 2007-08 campaign.  His 28 assists were tied for third on the team.

The Calgary native also recorded 13 points (8+5) in 23 Calder Cup Playoff games with the Penguins, ranking tied for third in the team in goal scoring and tied for seventh in points.

James also appeared in 13 games with the Pittsburgh Penguins last season, and netted his first career NHL goal on February 26 against the New York Islanders.

Originally signed by the Penguins on August 9, 2006, James has appeared in 134 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton over the course of two seasons, recording 69 points (21+48) in the regular season, and 21 points (12+9) in 34 playoff contests.

Drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the ninth round (279th overall) of the 2002 Entry Draft, James has also spent time with the Manchester Monarchs (AHL) and Bakersfield Condors (ECHL) during his professional career.  He made his NHL debut in 2005-06 with the Los Angeles Kings, appearing in two games and going scoreless.

James attended the University of Denver (2000-04) and was a member of the 2004 NCAA Championship Team, earning a spot on the All-Tournament Team. In 160 career games at Denver, James recorded 150 points (57+93) and 60 penalty minutes.

Season ticket packages for the 2008-09 season of Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins hockey are on sale now, and available by contacting the Penguins’ ticketing office at 570-208-7367.