Alaska-Fairbanks Senior Cody Kunyk Signs with Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning announced today that outgoing Alaska-Fairbanks senior forward Cody Kunyk has signed with the Lightning.

Kunyk, who turns 24 in May, signed a one-year deal with the Lightning, and because of his age, will become a restricted free agent and not subject to entry-level contract rules this summer. Kunyk is expected to be assigned to the Lightning.

Kunyk was able to negotiate such an excellent deal because an excellent senior season made him a hot commodity in NHL circles. Kunyk finished his final college campaign with 22 goals and 21 assists for 43 points with the Nanooks, which was good enough to win the WCHA's league scoring title. Kunyk was named WCHA Player of the Year by both the WCHA, and by us at SBN College Hockey.

Kunyk is listed at 5-11 197 lbs., but plays much bigger, and stronger than his size would indicate. He's a decent skater that competes hard and can play with a physical edge. Kunyk also has an impressive scoring touch to go along with a heavy shot, which makes him a dangerous scoring threat.