Blue Jackets UFA defenseman Taylor Chorney has signed with HC Lugano in Switzerland, the NLA team announced (link in Italian). He received a one-year deal.
The 31-year-old has been a full-time NHL player the last three seasons but hasn’t seen a whole lot of ice time in that stretch as he was more of a seventh defender than a regular. Last season, he played in just 23 games with Washington before being waived in February to make room for Michal Kempny who had just been acquired from Chicago.
Columbus claimed him off waivers on February 21st but they were only interested in having him around as insurance for injuries as he played a grand total of one game, the regular season finale when they were resting players for the postseason.
Given his usage, it’s no surprise that Chorney decided to go somewhere where he will receive considerable playing time. A strong showing in Switzerland could help him garner some interest back in North America for next season but for now, he leaves the NHL with 166 games under his belt with five different teams.