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Colgate University junior forward Kyle Baun has signed an NHL entry level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks, according to multiple media reports. The Toronto, Ontario native will forgo his senior season in Hamilton to start his professional career. Baun chose the Blackhawks over numerous suitors which were rumored to include: Detroit, Calgary, Winnipeg, and Edmonton.
Baun, a big right winger, had 14 goals and 15 assists this past season as Colgate finished fourth in the ECAC Hockey regular season race and lost in the league tournament championship to Harvard. Baun finishes his career in a Raider uniform with 39 goals and 40 assists.
Baun's grandfather Bob had a long career, playing 964 games, with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Baun's contract is a two-year entry level deal, and he is expected to burn the first year of that contract by playing some games with the Blackhawks this season.
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Jeff Cox covers college, junior, high school and prep hockey, NCAA recruiting and NHL Draft prospects. Follow him on Twitter @JeffCoxSports.