Calgary Flames sign first-round draft pick Sven Baertschi to entry-level contract –NHL Update
Calgary Flames became the second team to sign its first-round draft pick to a three-year, entry-level contract after Edmonton Oilers signed number-one overall pick, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, on Sunday. Calgary signed its 13th overall pick, Sven Baertschi,
announced by the club on Tuesday.
Flames surprised everyone as they chose a young Swiss player in this year’s draft, rather than a strong and heavy player like they usually do. After seeing Baertschi’s stats, it is not hard to see why he was chosen.
Baertschi played for Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League (WHL) this past season and put up 85 points (34 goals, 51 assists) in 66 games played along with being named rookie of the year.
He also ranked high in regards of physical play and registered 74 penalty minutes throughout.
According to Calgary Flames' general manager, Jay Feaster, there was no reason in having him sign late.
"From an organizational perspective, it is important we demonstrate our commitment to our young prospects and Sven is one of our highest first round picks in many years”, said Flames' GM, Jay Feaster. “We saw no reason to delay getting him signed and we
began discussing a contract with his agent immediately following the Draft. We reached an agreement today and are very pleased to welcome him to the Flames family".
The three-year, entry-level contract will pay Baertschi $925,000 per season and a maximum of $1.45 million annually.
At only 18, Baertschi was surprised at the offer made to him and remembered how his parents had led him to chasing his dream of playing hockey.
After training camp, he is planning on returning back to his home in Switzerland and vacationing with his family.
“After camp, going back, maybe we have time for a vacation or something”, said Baertschi.
This comes as good news to the hard working young Swiss player. Now instead of worrying if he will be signed or not, he can continue on improving his skills for next season and prove to the hockey world that Calgary Flames made a good choice in making a
unique selection this time around.
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