New Jersey Devils top prospect, Jon Merrill, has made his decision.

The 21-year-old defenseman decided to turn pro and has signed a three-year entry level contract with the Devils. Merrill's contract kicks in at the start of the 2013-14 season.

Merrill also signed an amateur tryout and will report to Albany for the remainder of the season, according to Bob McKenzie.

Merrill signing an ATO allows him to play in Albany for the rest of the season without using up a year of his contract. It also means that Merrill will not be eligible to play in New Jersey this year.

The book on Merrill is that he's a big, strong defenseman (6'3", 210lbs) who can skate, move the puck and contribute at both ends. He had two goals and 11 points in 21 games with Michigan this season.

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