CINCINNATI , Ohio – The Cincinnati Cyclones, proud affiliate of the NHL’s Florida Panthers and Nashville Predators announced today that they have agreed to terms with forward François Bouchard. To make room on the roster, Cincinnati has released forward Alex Penner.

Bouchard, a 24-year-old Sherbrooke, Quebec native, will be making his ECHL debut this weekend after spending his entire pro career in the American Hockey League. A year ago, he saw action in nine games with the Hershey Bears (AHL) before joining the Connecticut Whale (AHL) where he totaled 10 points (3 goals, 7 assists) in 34 contests. A 2006 second round pick by the Washington Capitals, Bouchard had a career year in 2009-10, when he amassed 52 points (21 goals, 31 assists) in 77 games for the Hershey Bears – helping them capture the Calder Cup Championship.

Prior to joining the professional ranks, Bouchard was a four-year player in the QMJHL with Baie-Comeau Drakkar where he earned 343 points (125 goals, 218 assists) in 259 amateur games.

Bouchard is expected to be in the lineup this Friday when the Cyclones hit the road to battle the Toledo Walleye at the Huntington Center for a 7:05 opening face-off. Hear all the action of the game on CyclonesHockey.com starting at 6:45pm. The Cyclones will return to the ice at U.S. Bank Arena next Saturday October 20th to face the Trenton Titans at 7:30pm. Fans ages 2-12 will receive a FREE meal courtesy of John Morrell, Hawaiian Punch, and Sunny D. Plus, all fans ages 2-12 will receive a Twister Card! Call 513.421.PUCK (7825) to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the season on Facebook and Twitter (@CincyCyclones).