Josh Norris signs entry-level contract with Ottawa

 

By @MichaelCaples –

Memorial Day Weekend 2019 will forever hold a great deal of significance for Josh Norris.

The Oxford native and University of Michigan forward has signed an entry-level contract with the Ottawa Senators.

Originally a first-round pick of the San Jose Sharks (19th overall, 2017), Norris was acquired by Ottawa in September of 2018.

A product of the Oakland Jr. Grizzlies and USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, Norris was a Hobey Baker Award candidate before being sidelined with a shoulder injury in the second half of his sophomore season with the University of Michigan.

“Josh is one of the organization’s top prospects, a fast, skilled, competitive centre who we project to play an important role with our team in the future,” said Senators general manager Pierre Dorion in a release from the team. “In speaking with Josh and his family, we were all in agreement that it is in the best interests of his development to make the step to turn professional after two great seasons at Michigan. We are very happy to have Josh signed and look forward to having him here at development camp in June.”

Norris concludes his collegiate career with 42 points (18 goals, 24 assists) over 54 games for the Maize and Blue.

He will rejoin former NTDP teammate and close friend Brady Tkachuk in Ottawa.