Minnesota defenseman Thompson to transfer at end of semester

Minnesota sophomore defenseman Blake Thompson will leave the Gophers’ program and transfer at the end of the current semester, according to a school-issued news release Tuesday.

“While I’m disappointed in Blake’s decision to transfer, I respect his choice and appreciate his contributions to the program over the last two years,” Minnesota coach Don Lucia said in a statement. “Our team and our staff wish him the best as he moves forward.”

In five games during the 2011-12 season, Thompson recorded two assists. He had not seen any game action this season.