The Vancouver Canucks have signed Ohio State University defenseman Cole McWard as a college free agent
The Vancouver Canucks have bolstered their blueline depth announcing the signing of right handed defenseman Cole McWard. The 21-year-old recently completed his sophomore season at Ohio State University and the signing was announced during the first period of Tuesday's Canucks game against the Seattle Kraken.
McWard had 9 goals and 21 points in 39 games for the Buckeyes. The Fenton, Missouri native agreed to a two-year entry level deal.
"Our group has worked extremely hard this college free agent season and this signing is another important step in building out our prospect pool," said Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin in a statement released by the team. "Cole has produced well offensively in each of his two seasons at Ohio State and excelled in a leadership role during his final USHL season with Tri-City. We look forward to having him work with Adam Foote, Sergei Gonchar and the rest of our development staff to round out his game as he transitions to the professional level."
Per Cap Friendly, McWard's two year deal worth $1.9 million dollars at the NHL level. It will pay him $82,500 in the American Hockey League.
McWard is the latest free agent signing to join the Canucks in recent weeks after Akito Hirose and Max Sasson. The club also signed 2019 draft pick Aidan McDonough after his senior season at Northeastern came to a conclusion.