Denver’s Donovan signs with Islanders

Denver sophomore defenseman Matt Donovan has decided to forgo his final two years of eligibility after signing a professional contract Wednesday with the New York Islanders.

Donovan will report to the Islanders’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, to play out the remainder of the season.

“We wish Matt continued success in professional hockey,” DU head coach George Gwozdecky said in a statement. “Matt was a very dynamic defenseman who helped us win a lot of games in two seasons.”

Donovan, who was drafted in the fourth round (96th overall) by the Islanders in 2008, finishes his DU career with 53 points (16 goals, 37 assists) in 78 games. He was named to the All-WCHA second team this season after netting 21 points (4g, 17a) in 28 league games.