The Leafs have signed their second highly touted NCAA forward in less than a week, inking Tyler Bozak to an entry level contract today. The native of Regina, Saskathewan and product of the University of Denver Pioneers had 23 points in 19 games this past season.
The Leafs had signed Christian Hanson, son of Dave Hanson – he of Slapshot movie fame as one of the infamous Hanson Brothers, earlier this week.
The 6’0″ and 165 lb centerman was being compared to Fabian Brunnstrom in last year’s bidding bonanza. It is felt that Tyler should be able to step into the NHL next season and contribute right away. As many as 26 teams were reportedly vying for the services of Bozak.
“He’s described by many in hockey circles as a strong two-way centre that possesses good speed and is a key face-off man on both the power-play and penalty kill.”
Sportsnet reports the Ottawa Senators were runner-up in the bidding for the standout collegiate. Bryan Murray stated earlier this morning:
“We tried to make lots of contact. It’s disappointing when you put in a lot of effort and you don’t get a guy. We certainly offered him a pretty good opportunity.”
Before the June NHL Entry Draft, the Leafs have already added significantly to their stable of young players – an influx desparately needed by the franchise!
{photo courtesy of LetsGoDU blog}
Chris is THW’s senior draft/prospect analyst and a Managing Editor. Watch for “The Next Ones” Prospect Profile series, exclusive rankings, mock drafts, as well as the annual THW NHL Entry Draft Guide. Follow @ChrisRalphYQ on Twitter as he infiltrates, dissects and analyzes all happenings of hockey prospects and the NHL entry draft. Email: cralph[at]thehockeywriters[dot]com
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