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The Montreal Canadiens have signed an NCAA prospect

Posted on by Neons

The Montreal Canadiens have announced the signing of Luke Tuch to a two-year, entry-level contract. The 22-year-old forward was selected 47th overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft.

Since then, Tuch has developed alongside NCAA top prospect Lane Hutson in addition to serving as co-captain of the Boston University Terriers in 2022-23 and 2023-24.

He ended his NCAA career in style, scoring the lone Terrier goal in the team's 2-1 semifinal loss to the Denver Pioneers in the Frozen Four.

Logistics issue

There has been a bit of a delay when it comes to negotiations, as the Canadiens are likely to want to see the deal begin next season, and Tuch's camp has pushed for a one-year contract burn right away.

In the end, the two sides agreed to a contract that will take effect in 2024-25.

Tuch spent four seasons in the NCAA, scoring 31 goals and 40 assists in 121 games for the Terriers, whose first few seasons were marred by injuries and pandemics. He found his goal-scoring rhythm in his fourth year in the league, scoring 10 goals and 20 assists in 39 games, though it's worth noting that he played on the left wing of a line with top prospect Maclin Celebrini in 2024.

MUST READ: What to Expect From Canadiens Prospect Luke Tuch

Given his limited production, Tuch is expected to play a season or more in the AHL. This allows him to adapt to the lack of time and space in professional hockey.

He projects as a hard-working player with decent acceleration that brings a certain physical element to the table thanks to his 6'2 frame.

Realistic expectations suggest he has the potential to soak up minutes on the penalty kill and become a bottom-six player in the NHL.

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