The New Jersey Devils announced they have signed top prospect Reilly Walsh to a three-year entry-level deal.
#NEWS: The #NJDevils have signed Reilly Walsh to a three-year, entry-level contract. #WeAreOne | @investorsbank https://t.co/9ndB75nSfo
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) August 10, 2020
Devils Sign Reilly Walsh
Walsh was taken by the Devils in the third round, 81st overall during the 2017 NHL Draft. He spent the last three seasons playing in the ECAC at Harvard University. He was going back for his fourth season at Harvard, but with the college cancelling all sports until January 2021, the defenceman decided to turn pro. His best season at Harvard came during the 2018-19 season recording a career-high 12 goals and 19 assists for 31 points in 33 games.
During his most recent season that was cut short due to COVID-19, Walsh ranked second in the conference for defencemen in scoring with 27 points (eights and 19 assists). Walsh was tied for fourth in assists amongst his competitors in Ivy League play, fourth in power-play points with 15 points (six goals and nine assists). During his freshman year, Walsh was named to the ECAC All-Rookie Team. For his career at Harvard Walsh finished with 78 points (27 goals and 51 assists) in 96 games.
Going Forward
Walsh adds a dynamic to the Devils defence that has been missing for some time now. He is a fast, puck-moving defenceman who has developed his all-around game over the time he has spent at Harvard. Not only that but Walsh is a dynamic player. His offensive mind allows him to easily transition and jump into the play if needed. He is the type of player the Devils can use on the back end.
The Devils have a lot of young talented defencemen in their system which include Walsh, Ty Smith, and Kevin Bahl. All of whom are the future of the Devils defence corps. The question will be for Walsh when he will be able to get back on the ice and be a part of this team. No doubt Walsh will get a look during training camp, whenever that is. However having not played in over six months, there is a chance he goes to the AHL for some more development. That way Walsh gets time to adjust to being a profession until he’s ready to come up to the big.
But make no mistake about this is a good signing for the Devils.
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