Gambrell leaves Denver after junior season, signs NHL contract with San Jose

Dylan Gambrell of Denver. North Dakota at Denver, Magness Arena, 11/18/17. (Candace Horgan)
Dylan Gambrell recorded 13 goals and 43 points this season for Denver (photo: Candace Horgan).

The San Jose Sharks announced Monday that the club has signed Denver junior forward Dylan Gambrell to a standard, entry-level contract.

“Dylan is one of the top college players in the country, who has proven through his many accomplishments that he can compete at the highest level,” said Sharks GM Doug Wilson in a statement. “We believe his speed, combined with his high-end hockey IQ, make him ready to be an NHL player. We are confident that, with his skill-set, he will make an impact with our team.”

Gambrell finished tied for first on the Pioneers in plus/minus rating (plus-18), second in assists (30), third in points (43) and tied for third in goals (13).

During his sophomore year, Gambrell helped lead the Pioneers to the 2017 NCAA national title.

Gambrell was originally drafted by San Jose in the second round (60th overall) of the 2016 NHL Draft.