It was announced by Arizona Coyotes President of hockey operation/general manager John Chayka that the team has agreed to terms with Cameron Crotty for a three-year entry-level deal.

OFFICIAL — Coyotes sign defenseman Cam Crotty to a three-year entry-level contract:https://t.co/t9EQqGtqHE

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) April 9, 2020

Coyotes Ink Defenceman Cameron Crotty to ELC

The 6′-2″, 190 pound prospect defenceman who is 20-yeas-old, collected four goals, five assists in 30 games this 2019-20 season with Boston University. He acted as alternate captain and accumulated 26 minutes in penalties. He will forego his final year at BU to jump to the pro level.

Crotty was selected 82nd overall in the 2017 NHL draft by the Coyotes. Over three seasons at BU, he had 10 goals, 17 assits and 77 PIM in 102 games. With that penalty total, he seems to be a physical blueliner, which is really what the Desert Dogs can use. He is also a right-hand shot, which adds to his value.

What This Means Going Forward

The Coyotes already have a solid veteran defensive core in the NHL. But, four of those reliable names are heading into their final years under contract and are scheduled for unrestricted free agency in 2021. Alex Goligoski, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Jason Demers, and Jordan Oesterle may soon be some departing, meaning Arizona will need to find some replacements in the near future. That opportunity may be great for Crotty, who needs some more time but has serious NHL potential. He could easily develop in the AHL playing for the Coyotes affiliate Tucson Roadrunners. Then when he’s ready for the next level, he can be evaluated for that next step in his career.

Crotty is not anywhere near an offensive D-man. He could possibly replace a Demers or Hjalmarsson who are more defensive minded blueliners as well.

One thing is certain, the Arizona Coyotes will possess a strong defence with the likes of Jakob Chychrun and the soon to be promoted Victor Soderstrom. He is also a right-hand shooting young prospect and adding Crotty to that list is more than appealing.

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