The New Jersey Devils have signed defenseman Will Butcher to a two-year entry-level contract.
Last season, Butcher tallied an impressive 37 points in 43 games while serving as captain at the University of Denver and was rewarded for his efforts by winning the 2017 Hobey Baker.
The 5'10' blue liner is regarded as a smart player who can help transition from defense to offense, quarterback a power play, and bring leadership qualities to the table (he wore a letter all four seasons in Denver).
While Butcher is coming off the best season of his NCAA career, he is not a one-year wonder. He tallied 32 points in 37 games as a junior while finishing 4th on the team in scoring (1st among defensemen) and was a productive contributor in all four seasons (his lowest points per game was .42 as a freshman).
He may still need some AHL seasoning and, like many college free agents, has undoubtedly been overhyped during this process, but he's a promising prospect and should be seeing NHL duty sooner than later.
This is a nice get for the Devils and one they certainly needed given the state of defense both at the top level and in the system.
Calgary Flames Blogger • 
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