Logan O’Connor Signs an Entry-Level Contract With Colorado Avalanche

Photo Courtesy of Denver Pioneers

NHL

Former Denver Pioneer Inks Two-Year Entry Level Contract With Avalanche’s

After three years of playing college hockey in Denver, and winning a national championship his sophomore year, former Denver University Pioneer forward, Logan O’Connor signs a two-year entry-level contract with the Colorado Avalanche. As a result, the 21-year old becomes the 7th student-athlete from the 2017-2018 Denver Pioneers team to sign with a professional team; while being the 5th student-athlete to sign with an NHL team.

The Calgary Alberta native was named captain of the Pioneers in June. As a result, the signing comes as a bit of a surprise to everyone who bleeds Crimson and Gold. Last season, O’Connor played in 41 games; going on to record seven goals and 14 assists, while leading the team with 2 shorthanded goals. In this three-year career with the Pioneers, the 6-foot, 179-pound right wing finished his college career with 43 points in 108 games. All while winning an NCHC regular-season championship (2016-17) and tournament championship (2017-18), to go along with his national title.

Thoughts From the Colorado Avalanche Franchise

Per the official news release, “Logan is a hard-working player who brings leadership, energy, and speed every night,” Avalanche Executive Vice President and General Manager Joe Sakic said. “His game has continued to develop each season, and we are excited that he has decided to pursue his professional career with the Avalanche organization.”

“Logan has earned this opportunity with Colorado,” Richard and Kitzia Goodman Head Coach David Carle said. “He represents everything a Pioneer student-athlete strives to be. He has put himself in this position with his tireless work ethic the last three years and leaves Denver with a National Championship, NHL contract and degree in sight. We couldn’t be more proud of him and we are excited to watch him at the next level.”

From a Hockey Family

O’Connor comes from a hard-hitting, pro hockey family. His father, Myles O’Connor, was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the third round (45th overall) in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft; playing 43 career games. Myles ended his career playing for the Nippon Paper Cranes in Japan. In his career, he amassed over 1,000 penalty minutes in 385 North American minor league games.

O’Connor attended the Avalanche’s development camp earlier this summer. He is expected to start the season with the Avalanche’s AHL affiliate, Colorado Eagles. There he will compete for a bottom-six spot on the roster.