NEWS AND NOTES FOR JULY 27th

JULY 27th: NEWS & NOTES

Canucks Sign Byron Bitz To A One-Year Deal:
The Canucks have signed gritty forward, Byron Bitz to a one-year, two-way contract. At the NHL level he will be making $700,000 per year and at the AHL level he will earn $105,000. I love this signing for the Nucks and I believe he will fit in perfectly in their bottom-six forward group. His hard hitting, gritty style will be appreciated on their club and will give them yet another physical, agitating type player to put up against opponents.


Predators Sign Craig Smith To A Two-Year Entry Level Contract:
The Preds signed Craig Smith to an ELC and I would expect Smith to be a real serious candidate to make the Predators team out of camp. He is ready for the pros.


Pens Sign Scott Harrington To An Entry Level Contract:
The Penguins signed their recent second round selection, Scott Harrington to an ELC. I would imagine that Harrington will remain in the OHL for the next two years.


Connor Murphy, John Gibson and Reid Boucher to OHL:
All three were expected to play college hockey, and now have decided to opt out of their commitment's to join the OHL. This is very rough news for NCAA hockey, which has become a secondary option in the development of young prospects.