The suspense surrounding Boston University free-agent goaltender Matt O'Connor has come to an end. The 6'6" goalies has sigbed his entry level contract with the Ottawa Senators.
“We are very excited to welcome Matt to the Senators family,… said Ottawa Senators general manager Bryan Murray. “Matt is a fine example of both the type of player and person that our organization looks for when we are acquiring talent. We are confident that under the tutelage of our player development staff, Matt will have the opportunity to develop into an outstanding National Hockey League goaltender.…
O'Connor back stopped Boston University to The Beanpot Championship. BU also reached the NCAA Frozen Four and national championship game. O'Connor flubbed a puck on a shot from the red line that turned into the championship game tying goal. He would eventually lose that game 4-3 to Providence College.
O'Connor's deal Senators is for two years with the maximum bonuses allowed on an entry-level contract.
The Senators, Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers were the four finalists in the O'Connor sweepstakes.
BU's featured attractions were Jack Eichel and Evan Rodrigues, who as a free agent signed with Buffalo last month. Eichel will be selected second overall by Buffalo in the NHL Draft.
O'Connor went 25-4-4 with a .927 save percentage this season.
The O'Connor signing now gives Ottawa four goalies.
Craig Anderson has three year remaining on his current deal.
Robin Lehner has two years remaining. Ditto O'Connor.
Hammond is UFA and Sens GM Bryan Murray wants to sign him to a long term contract extension.
I fully expect Tim Murray to call Uncle Bryan to finalize a trade for Lehner to Buffalo.
Tim Murray also has his sights set on Anaheim back-up tender John Gibson, Montreal prospect Zach Fucale, and Boston prospect Malcolm Subban.