Craig Macdonald will be back in a Scorpions uniform for 2007-08, as new head coach Randy Murphy continued to sign players for his first season behind the bench.

The Scorpions also signed rookie David Simoes.

Macdonald set career highs in points (46), goals (24) and assists (22) last year with the Scorpions. The Milton, Ont., Canada, native also pitched in 13 playoff points in 18 games while helping lead New Mexico to the Southern Conference finals. "We are looking for Craig to build on his success from last season," Murphy said. "He is going to be one of our leaders up front and will play in all situations."

Prior to arriving in the Land of Enchantment, Macdonald spent five years in Elmira, N.Y. The 6-foot, 201-pound left wing played four years at Elmira College and spent a season in the United Hockey League with the Elmira Jackals.

Simoes comes to the Scorpions after a successful career in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and last season with the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

The tough defenseman was second in the BCHL with 226 penalty minutes during the 2005-06 season.

"David will add toughness to our back end from the start," Murphy said. "We are excited to see his transition to the professional level and from everything we have heard David will be a class act off the ice and in the community in addition to his on ice efforts."

In his three years of BCHL play, Simoes proved he could do more than play the tough guy role. In 164 games, he scored 95 points and spent 589 minutes "in the box."

The Vanderhoof, B.C., Canada, native hails from the same hometown as Scorpions fan favorite Konrad Reeder.

Stingers: Ticket packages are on sale for as low as $63. Every month, one lucky full season ticket holder will win a free, game-worn autographed Scorpions' jersey. Call the Scorpions' office at 881-7825 or visit www.scorpionshockey.com.