Massachusetts’ Allen gives up final season, signs with Rangers

Massachusetts junior defenseman Conor Allen signed a free-agent contract with the New York Rangers on Friday, forgoing his senior season with the Minutemen.

“We are all excited for Conor as he takes this next step in his hockey career,” said UMass coach John Micheletto in a news release. “The Rangers organization is getting a quality person and hockey player. He’s worked extremely hard on his development and is so worthy of this reward. Conor has represented UMass well in the classroom, on the ice and in the community during his time here and we will miss him. We will also proudly watch and cheer on his career as he achieves all the greatness he deserves.”

Allen played in 33 games this past season and recorded five goals and 14 assists for a career-high 19 points to rank fourth on the squad in scoring.

Overall, the Chicago native tallied 14 goals and 39 points in 99 career games at UMass.

“I am thankful the New York Rangers have given me this opportunity,” added Allen. “The last three years have been a great experience and I look forward to getting my degree and cheering on the Minutemen in the future.”