Patrick Russell Signs With Edmonton Oilers

St. Cloud State sophomore forward Patrick Russell has signed an entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers.

Fresh from signing North Dakota's Drake Caggiula, Oilers have signed Forward Patrick Russell from St Cloud State.

— John Shannon (@JSportsnet) May 9, 2016

Russell had an outstanding year for the Huskies, scoring 20 goals and 21 assists for 41 points in 41 games.

We ranked Russell as the 68th-best NHL prospect in the NCAA last season, and sixth-best available free agent.

Russell is a big bodied power forward that excels in the offensive zone. He's not a fantastic skater, but his ability to move his feet and find open space in tough areas in front of the net make him a dangerous offensive threat. He has improved in his second season to become a more well-rounded player, by becoming better defensively and playing on the penalty kill for St. Cloud State.

Russell is the second major free agent signing with the Oilers this week after they signed Drake Caggiula last Friday.

With Russell's departure, St. Cloud State will have to replace their top six scorers from last season.