The Bruins announced Tuesday that they’ve signed defense prospect Jackson Edward to a three-year, entry-level contract. Per the team, the deal carries a cap hit of $860K.
After signing him to the contract, the Bruins immediately returned Edward to the OHL’s London Knights on loan. That’s where the 19-year-old shutdown prospect has played since 2021. He’s off to a strong start this season on the scoresheet, posting six points and a +7 rating in ten games. For context, Edward had six points, all assists, in the entirety of 2021-22 (his draft year), when he played 54 games for London. The Bruins’ scouting staff decided to take a flyer on him late in the 2022 NHL Draft with the 200th overall pick.
Given his age, Edward’s contract is eligible to slide one season to the 2024-25 campaign – assuming he plays less than ten NHL games for the Bruins this season. Given that’s the likely scenario, Edward’s deal will likely run through the 2026-27 season, after which point he’ll be a restricted free agent.
The Newmarket, Ontario-born defender stands at 6-foot-2 and nearly 200 pounds, and he relies on a very involved, physical game to be effective. His playmaking and passing accuracy have improved notably since his draft day, though. That’s something that could keep him from being a major offensive liability if he reaches the NHL.