
The Charlie McAvoy era is over for the Boston University men’s hockey team.
The 19-year-old defenseman has signed an amateur tryout (ATO) contract with the Providence Bruins, the AHL affiliate of the Boston Bruins. Across his Terrier career, Charlie McAvoy earned a Hockey East First-Team nod after his sophomore season and recorded 51 points in 75 games.
Perhaps McAvoy’s biggest moment, though, was winning a gold medal with Team USA at the 2017 World Junior Championships. He was an assistant captain for the red, white and blue, starring in the title game against Team Canada.
Upon signing, McAvoy becomes the second Terrier to pro early following the 2016-17 season. Forward Clayton Keller signed on Sunday with the Arizona Coyotes, making his debut one day later against the St. Louis Blues.
In connection with the Bruins, early reports indicate that sophomore forward Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson, Boston’s second-round pick in 2015, is undecided on whether to turn pro or not.
Lastly, McAvoy was Boston’s first-round pick in the 2016 NHL Draft, always placing him on a fast track to the big show.
Don Sweeney addressing media; said Charlie McAvoy has decided to forego the rest of his college career & will be signing an ATO w/Providence
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) March 29, 2017
Charlie McAvoy foregoing rest of NCAA career & agrees to an ATO w/Bruins, per Don Sweeney. Sweeney won't rule out him playing in NHL this yr
— Joe Haggerty (@HackswithHaggs) March 29, 2017
Time in AHL last spring set Zach Werenski up for terrific rookie season. Boston no doubt hoping for same with Charlie McAvoy
— Mark Divver (@MarkDivver) March 29, 2017
https://twitter.com/DJ_Bean/status/847110060975239168
Bruins have yet to determine whether McAvoy will play in the NHL this season. One game will start the clock.
— Fluto Shinzawa (@FlutoShinzawa) March 29, 2017