The Coyotes have locked up one of their prospects, announcing the signing of defenseman Kevin Bahl to a three-year, entry-level contract. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. While not specified in the press release, the deal will commence in the 2019-20 season.
Bahl was selected in the second round (55th overall) back in June as a stay-at-home defender. However, the 6’6 rearguard has taken a big step offensively this season, posting 33 points (5-28-33) in 66 games with the Ottawa 67’s of the OHL which is more than he put up in his first two seasons at the major junior level.
While many prospects signing at this time of the year will be making the jump to the pros, that won’t be the case for Bahl as the 67’s sit atop the OHL standings and are ranked fourth overall in the CHL rankings. A lengthy postseason run is expected and as a junior-aged player, the 18-year-old would only be able to join Arizona’s AHL affiliate in Tucson once his junior is finished with their postseason run.