The Boston Bruins have signed former Surrey Eagles captain Danton Heinen to a three-year entry level contract. Heinen just completed his sophomore season at the University of Denver, leading the team to a NCAA Frozen Four appearance.
The contract does not begin until next season, but the Bruins have also signed Heinen to an amateur tryout contract for the remainder of this season. He will join the Providence Bruins of the AHL, and finish his season there.
In his final season with the Denver Pioneers, Heinen picked up 20 goals and 28 assists in 41 games. He was named NCHC Rookie of the Year in 2014-2015, after recording 16 goals and 29 assists for 45 points in 40 games. He was originally selected by the Bruins in the fourth round of the NHL entry draft, 116th overall in 2014.
Heinen was the captain of the Surrey Eagles during the 2013-2014 season, and led the team with 29 goals in 57 games.
In a recent interview with SurreyEagles.ca, Heinen stressed how important the Eagles were to his success at the NCAA level.
“When I was with the Eagles I played with some great players, we pushed each other,” Heinen explained. “The big ice surface helped my skating, and I think that prepared me well for the college game.”
Heinen also had positive memories of the Eagles’ staff.
“[Assistant Coach] Brad Tobin was always great to work with in practice. He really wanted to help you improve, and was always there if you wanted to work on anything.”
The 20-year-old Heinen will now officially begin his professional career, and the Surrey Eagles wish him the best of luck in the future.
