The NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets have announced that they have signed Clarkson’s Jr. Captain, Josh Dunne to a two year NHL Entry Level Contract. Josh will report to the teams’ AHL affiliate in Cleveland immediately.
“We are extremely excited for Josh. This is a great opportunity and one that he has worked extremely hard for.” said Clarkson Head Coach, Casey Jones. “As a coach I can tell you that Josh combines everything that you want in a student athlete. He is a complete player, the consummate teammate, and a motivated student in the class room. He was a pleasure to coach.”
Josh will come to Columbus via some familiar names to Clarkson fans, the Blue Jackets General Manager, Jarmo Kekalainen, is a former Golden Knight, that like Dunne also wore #21 and Director of Player Development and GM of the Cleveland Monsters is former Clarkson Forward, Chris Clark. “Josh is a player who we have been watching for a few years now and his character on and off the ice and style of play fit in with the Blue Jacket organization seamlessly” said former Golden Knights Captain, Clark.
Jones felt that their connection helped them understand that Josh was more than just a big power forward, but also a character guy they would want in the locker room and while it’s tough to lose a talent and leader like Josh, its a great step for the 6th player in the last 5 years to sign a NHL deal, “Josh is a program first guy. We talked at length after last season about his development and we have prepared for this scenario. We are excited to watch his progression.”
Dunne left this morning for Cleveland where he will enter the teams COVID safety protocols and hopes to be practicing by mid week, “I am excited to take this next step in my hockey career. I spoke with Mr. Kekalainen and Mr. Clark and I am grateful of the chance they have given me with the Blue Jackets.” said Dunne.
Dunne will join the Monsters that are 4-3-1 in the Central Division. The AHL began play on Feb 5th.
(Clarkson Men’s Hockey Photo)
