McCarthy came to Columbus last year as a mid-season addition, making a significant impact on the Snakes' offense with 20 points in the final 37 regular season games. The feisty forward played a few games in the IHL and CHL before joining the Snakes for the remainder of his rookie season. Prior to playing professionally, McCarthy spent four seasons (2003-2007) playing at the collegiate level at SUNY-Potsdam.

"With the addition of Ryan last year, we were provided with some much-needed spark to our lineup," head coach Jerome Bechard said. "He has that in-your-face, whatever-it-takes attitude to win, and that's what Cottonmouths hockey is all about."

Smith comes to the Snakes after three seasons at Potsdam, where he and McCarthy played two seasons together for the Bears. The 6'3" defenseman picked up 22 points in 61 games over three seasons there, and will join the Cottonmouths for his professional debut. A native of Fort Covington, NY, Smith is the fourth defenseman to sign with the Snakes along with Andrew Dwyer, Tyler Johnson and Jason Schulz.

"Lance is a big, physical defenseman. He enjoys punishing guys in front of the net, and doesn't mind dropping his gloves when the time comes," Bechard said. "His former coaches say he's got a good, hard shot from the blueline, so I'm very excited to get Lance here and have him help anchor our blueline."