Chicago Blackhawks announced on Monday that they have signed top prospect defenseman Ian Mitchell to an entry-level contract. Mitchell decided to forgo his senior year at the University of Denver in order to come to NHL.
Mitchell joins Blackhawks after captaining Denver last season and delivering 10 goals and 22 assists for career-high 32 points in 36 games. Thanks to an impressive year, he earned first-team All-American selection.
“I want to be a Blackhawk for a long time,” said Mitchell after inking the deal. “I’m really happy with being a prospect of theirs. I’m excited to hopefully get started with them soon. When I get there, I can hopefully make an impact and help the team win.”
Chicago Blackhawks drafted Ian Mitchell in the second round of 2017 NHL Entry-Draft. Encouraged by his college performances, the organization wanted to sign him last season. Mitchell, however, decided to remain at Denver for one more year in an attempt to win a championship.
Due to coronavirus pandemic, college hockey season was canceled, so Mitchell didn’t manage to fulfill his goal. He will leave Denver having scored 18 goals and dished 71 assists for a total of 89 points in 116 games.
