The Chicago Blackhawks continued to add to their professional defensive pipeline on Friday, inking prospect Ethan Del Mastro to a three-year entry-level contract. The contract will begin next season and will carry an average annual value of $878,333.
Signed on the dotted line ✍️ pic.twitter.com/02e6LOcm7k
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 22, 2022
Del Mastro was selected in the fourth round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft (105th overall) by the Blackhawks and has been developing in the OHL with the Mississauga Steelheads, where he served as the team captain this season.
A 6-foot-4, 209-pound rearguard, Del Mastro turned in career bests this season with seven goals, 41 assists and 48 points, all of which were team highs among defensemen.
“Ethan has made tremendous strides in his game over the last few years,” Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson said in a press release. “He has really opened our eyes as he showcased a poise with the puck and ability to make plays on the rush this season. Combining those traits with an already strong defensive mentality gives us hope that there is still plenty of room for progression and growth in his game.”
More so known for his defensive prowess, Del Mastro was named as the OHL’s best defensive defenseman and best penalty killer this season.