Kitchener Rangers defenceman Ryan Murphy inked a three-year deal with the Carolina Hurricanes today.
Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford has been impressed with the blue-liner all camp and locked up the rookie to an entry-level contract that pays Murphy$832,500 in the NHL or $70,000 if he gets sent back to the OHL.
There is also a $277,500 signing bonus.
The good news for Rangers fans is that if Murphy doesn't make the NHL club, he can't be sent to the AHL, he'll have to return to the Rangers.
But 'Canes management is raving about Murphy and will give him every shot to make the big club.
It could be a long year on defence for the Rangers.