Lexi Bender Joins the Boston Pride

The 2016 Isobel Cup champion Boston Pride have signed defenseman Lexi Bender to a one-year, $10,000 contract, the team announced Monday.

She was a 3rd round selection by the Pride in the 2015 NWHL draft.

“Lexi had an excellent career at BC, and is a proven winner,” said general manager Hayley Moore. “Her speed, strength, and size will be a great addition to our defensive core.”

Bender has just finished her senior season with the Boston College Eagles, who suffered a disappointing defeat in the NCAA national championship after going undefeated the entire season leading up to that match.

In her 154 career games she put up 19 goals and 76 assists. She has also played two games for the USA Hockey U-22 team in 2014.

“It is such an incredible opportunity to play professional hockey, especially with the reigning Isobel Cup champions, as well as to have the chance to continue growing the girls’ game,” said Bender in a statement. “The Pride are who drafted me, and I am very much looking forward to being in Boston, and surrounded by such great players on a day-to-day basis.”

NWHL free agency runs from May 1 to July 31.