Parker Kelly Earns ELC with Ottawa Senators
The undrafted 18-year-old is now officially part of the Senators organization
After getting a long look in the offseason, first being invited to development camp, then being signed to an ATO for the rookie tournament, the Sens have decided to sign forward Parker Kelly to a three-year entry-level contract.
Hailing from the small town of Camrose, Alberta, Parker Kelly was passed on in the 2017 draft, his first year eligible, despite being projected to be taken by a few draft sites (Hockeyprospect.com had him pegged at #166). In his second season for the Prince Albert Raiders, he scored 21 goals and 43 points, good for second highest on the team. Although it was a rough year for Prince Albert who finished last in their division, things are looking up as they recently used the #1 pick in the WHL draft to select defenceman Kaiden Guhle. Until he arrives, however, it might be another rough season for the Raiders.
That is, unless Kelly can boost his game to provide the team some much-needed offence. Amongst all U18 WHLers in 2016-17, Kelly finished 12th in goals and 15th in points. Taking into account his lower quality of teammates, that could potentially be higher than it appears at face value. Looking at his production snapshot, things are looking promising for the young centre.
(Made by @Ziggy_14)
With plenty of Sens prospects turning pro this season, the signing gives Ottawa’s prospect pool a bit more depth for the coming season. And at only 18 years old, Kelly still has plenty of time to take his game to the next level.
