Defenceman Carter Yakemchuk has agreed to terms on a three-year, entry-level deal with the Ottawa Senators, club president of hockey operations and GM Steve Staios announced on Tuesday.

No terms were disclosed.

Yakemchuk, 18, was drafted by the Senators seventh overall in June in Las Vegas from the Western Hockey League’s Calgary Hitmen.

“Carter has a bright future ahead of him,” said Staios in a statement released by the team. “He’s an offensively gifted defenceman who’s competitive and who has an NHL-ready shot. With continued development, we expect him to become a key member of our defence corps for many years to come.”

The Fort McMurray, Alta., native had career highs in goals (30), assists (41), points (71) and penalty minutes (120) while leading WHL defencemen in goals over 66 regular-season games in 2023-24.

The Ottawa Senators have made a significant move by signing prospect Carter Yakemchuk to an entry-level contract. The 20-year-old forward has shown great potential in his junior career and is now poised to make the jump to professional hockey.

Yakemchuk, a native of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, has been playing for the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors for the past three seasons. In his most recent campaign, he tallied 29 points in 22 games, showcasing his offensive skills and playmaking abilities.

The Senators were impressed with Yakemchuk’s development and decided to offer him a contract to join their organization. General Manager Pierre Dorion spoke highly of the young forward, praising his work ethic and determination on the ice.

Yakemchuk is expected to join the Senators’ AHL affiliate, the Belleville Senators, for the upcoming season. This will provide him with the opportunity to further develop his game and adjust to the professional level of play.

Fans of the Ottawa Senators are excited about the addition of Yakemchuk to the organization and are looking forward to seeing him in action. With his talent and potential, he could become a key player for the team in the future.

Overall, the signing of Carter Yakemchuk is a positive move for the Ottawa Senators as they continue to build for the future. With his skill set and determination, he has the potential to make a significant impact at the NHL level in the years to come.