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Boston College defenseman Noah Hanifin has signed a NHL entry-level contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, forgoing his final three years of collegiate eligibility.
The Norwood, Mass. native was picked fifth overall by the Hurricanes in last month's 2015 NHL Draft. A product of the US National Team Development Program (USNTDP), Hanifin had a terrific rookie season for Jerry York's Eagles. He posted five goals and 18 assists from the backend while having a +12 plus/minus.
Hanifin is a future franchise defenseman. His skating ability and skills to positively impact a team's transition are second to none. He will immediately help Carolina's puck possession game. He will also be a big time player on the power play.
Hanifin, a client of Orr Sports Group, wanted to be sure he'd play meaningful minutes in the NHL before agreeing to terms with the Hurricanes.
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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.