After being drafted fourth overall by the Ottawa Senators, Brady Tkachuk set a deadline on when he would decide whether or not to sign an entry-level contract. With that deadline approaching, Tkachuk has reportedly informed Boston University head coach Albie O’Connell that he intends to sign his pro contract. The decision is expected to be made official on Sunday.
Brady Tkachuk, son of Keith, has informed Boston University Head Coach Albie O’Connell of his intentions to sign a pro contract. pic.twitter.com/3VziMjCin8
— Bucci Mane (@Buccigross) August 11, 2018
Brady Tkachuk Reportedly Signing With Senators
Son of former NHLer Keith Tkachuk and brother of Matthew Tkachuk, Brady had spent his freshman season with the Terriers of BU. He registered eight goals and 23 assists in 40 games. Tkachuk was named to the NCAA Hockey East All-Rookie Team. He was also an NCAA Champion with BU.
Tkachuk also spent time with the United States world junior team in Buffalo, totaling three goals and six assists in seven games. He captained the USA U18 squad back in 2017, where he posted one goal and six assists in seven games. The team won the goal medal that year.
Tkachuk’s early career was spent in the United States National Development Program. In 116 games, he tallied 34 goals and 45 assists.
Tkachuk has a good chance to make the Senators roster this upcoming season. The list of left-wingers on the roster includes players such as Zack Smith, Magnus Paajarvi, and Mikkel Boedker.
Three Options For Tkachuk Next Season
Ottawa has multiple options when it comes to where Tkachuk can play. He can play in the NHL, AHL or OHL. The London Knights currently hold his CHL rights. Since Tkachuk played college hockey, he has the option to go straight to the AHL and play for the Belleville Senators.
Snooping around on the Brady Tkachuk story, there is a strong belief from most corners that he ends up playing with the London Knights this season.
— Jeff Marek (@JeffMarek) August 11, 2018
Tkachuk’s willingness to sign his entry-level contract now suggests that he feels there is a good chance of cracking the NHL roster. While there’s thought the OHL will be his destination, the Senators lose control of his development this way.
If Tkachuk fails to make the team out of camp, Belleville would be his best destination. The Senators are able to recall him at any point. No matter what happens, however, it looks like Tkachuk will be starting his pro career sooner rather than later.
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