Predators Give Jack Dougherty Entry-Level Deal

The Nashville Predators have signed defensive prospect Jack Dougherty to a three-year, entry-level contract, the team announced on Friday. The 2014 2nd round draft (51st overall) pick spent last season playing for the University of Wisconsin Badgers in the NCAA.

The 19-year-old put in nine total points (two goals, seven assists) for the Badgers, including four power play points. The Minnesota-native previously played for the U.S. National Team Development Program.

He’s expected to play for the Portland Winterhawks of the WHL next season, exiting the NCAA system, according to the team’s release.

The #Preds have signed defenseman Jack Dougherty to an entry-level deal —> http://t.co/cyWraUE2zD pic.twitter.com/RYU5SxLolU

— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) July 24, 2015

It’s been a tough offseason for the Badgers, with lots of player de-committing and heading to Canadian major junior leagues.

Wow…..beyond words right now. Just signed my first professional contract with @officialnashvillepredators! Big thank you to everyone that has helped me get to this point.

A photo posted by Jack Dougherty (@jackdougherty4) on Jul 24, 2015 at 2:42pm PDT