Back in late April we were able to bring you the news that Brendan Smith and Cody Goloubef had informed the coaching staff at Wisconsin that they would be signing NHL contracts.Goloubef made it official two days later, inking a deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets. With the Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, it took a bit longer for Smith's deal to be finalized. But it was announced today by the Red Wings that Smith has made it official.
From the Red Wings press release, “Brendan improved tremendously in each of his three seasons at Wisconsin,” Red Wings general manager Ken Holland. “He was a dominant player at the collegiate level, in particular at his position, and we feel he is ready to take the next step in his career at the professional level. We look forward to having him at training camp in Traverse City in September.”
Smith enjoyed a stellar junior season at Wisconsin, leading the nation in scoring among defensemen with 15 goals and 52 points. He was one of 10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, given annually to the nation’s top collegiate hockey player.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pound defenseman was named to the All-WCHA First Team and also took home honors as the WCHA Defensive Player of the Year. Smith became the first Badgers defenseman to record 50 points in a season since 1989-90 and the first to post at least 10 power-play goals in a season since 1979-80.
I would personally like to thank Brendan for three great seasons in the Cardinal and White. This past season was one of the best seasons for a defenseman that I've personally ever witnessed. It was truly a blessing to be able to be able to watch Brendan's offensive brilliance from the blue line.
On behalf of all Wisconsin fans, good luck with the Detroit Red Wings and may you have a long, healthy, prosperous career.
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