Ian Mitchell led all DU skaters with 12 power-play points during the 2018-19 season (photo: Candace Horgan).Denver sophomore defenseman Ian Mitchell announced Wednesday that he will return for his junior year with the Pioneers.Mitchell has eight goals, 49 assists and 32 penalty minutes through 80 career games with the Pioneers.The Chicago Blackhawks prospect registered six goals and 27 points and 18 penalty minutes in 39 games during the 2018-19 season, leading Denver defensemen in points and leading all Pioneer skaters with 12 power-play points and 66 blocked shots to earn Second-Team All-NCHC honors.“In the past few days since our season ended, I have had the chance to reflect on the year and the season our team had,” Mitchell said in a statement. “It became clear to me during that time that I did not feel ready mentally or physically to leave Denver. I believe this is the best place for me to become a better hockey player and as a team, we have an opportunity to do something very special next year.”I would like to thank the Chicago Blackhawks organization for being so supportive and respectful of my decision to remain in school and continue my development. I am looking forward to next season.”Mitchell is a two-time member of the NCHC Academic All-Conference Team and a two-time NCHC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete
