According to Sportsnet's Jeff Marek, Oshawa Generals defender Connor Punnett has signed an entry-level contract with the Dallas Stars.

If there's any defender in the OHL that has professional hockey written all over him, it is Connor Punnett. 

The Dallas Stars were able to get their hands on him first, by signing him to an entry-level contract.

Connor Punnett currently plays for the Oshawa Generals in the OHL, as he was traded from Barrie ahead of the trade deadline. Punnett has 50 points through 59 games this season, but his production is not what got him signed to this NHL deal.

Punnett is measured at 6-foot-2 and 198-pounds, but that almost seems underwhelming for him. Punnett plays a hugely physical game, and he can be described as a wrecking ball on the back end. There aren't many games that he goes without a bit hit or fight.

The North Bay, Ontario-native wore the 'C' for the Barrie Colts, and possesses a lot of leadership abilities on and off the ice. His physicality and net-front presence in the defensive zone intimidate opponents and make him a force.

Punnett will translate seamlessly to the professional game — likely in the AHL primarily — because of his strength and maturity. Professional hockey is a whole different level of physical compared to the OHL, and Punnett fits that mould.

In his overage season, Punnett has one last run to chase an OHL Championship with the Generals. He has been a much-welcomed presence on their blue line, as they lacked a defensive physical presence previously.

The Dallas Stars have signed a future pro defenceman, but just how far will Punnett's strength and physicality take him?