Ohio State junior forward Chris Crane has signed an entry-level contract with the NHL’s San Jose Sharks, forfeiting his final year of eligibility.
Crane was selected by the Sharks in the seventh round (200th overall) of the 2010 NHL draft.
“This is a great opportunity for Chris,” OSU coach Mark Osiecki said in a news release. “He has come a long way and matured, both on and off the ice. We are happy as a staff both for him and our program.”
“I’d like to thank everyone at Ohio State, especially my coaches and teammates,” added Crane, who will join the AHL’s Worcester Sharks this week. “Without them, this opportunity wouldn’t be possible. I’m a Buckeye for life. I’m excited to begin my professional career, but at the same time, it’s bittersweet to leave Ohio State and home.”
Crane played in 108 games as a Buckeye and had 24 goals, 19 assists and 43 points, including six goals and nine points in 39 games during the 2012-13 season.
Earlier this week, the Sharks signed Boston University junior forward Matt Nieto.
