Michigan sophomore forward Josh Norris has signed an entry-level contract with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, forgoing his last two years of eligibility.
The Oxford, Mich., native scored 19 points (10 goals, nine assists) in 17 games this past season and was a Hobey Baker Award nominee before suffering a season-ending injury in January.
“I am very thankful that I was able to play for this amazing university,” said Norris in a statement. “It was the best two years of my life. I want to thank all of the staff, the fans, and especially my teammates for everything. I will miss you, Ann Arbor. Go Blue.”
Norris began the 2018-19 season with 12 points during a seven-game point streak (six goals, six assists) and was tabbed as the Big Ten Second Star of the Week (Oct. 30). He recorded at least a point in 14 of the 17 games he played.
As a freshman during the 2017-18 season, Norris recorded 23 points (eight goals, 15 assists), led all Michigan forwards in blocked shots (43), and led the team in faceoff win percentage (56.4).
Internationally, he was a two-time member of Team USA’s World Junior Championship squads, winning a bronze medal (2018) and a silver (2019). In 2019, Norris was named an alternate team captain for Team USA and finished fourth on the team in points with six (three goals, three assists).
Norris was selected in the first round (19th overall) of the 2017 NHL Draft by the San Jose Sharks, who traded his rights to Ottawa on Sept. 13, 2018 in the Erik Karlsson deal.
