Button Signs with Boston Bruins
May 4, 2011 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Seattle Thunderbirds News Release
T-Birds defenseman was 3rd round pick of Boston in 2009Kent,May 4, 2011 - Seattle Thunderbirds defenseman Ryan Button signed a three-year entry level contract with the Boston Bruins today.
"Signing a pro contract is something that every player strives for and we are happy for Ryan that he has signed with the Bruins," said T-Birds general manager Russ Farwell. "Ryan will definitely start in the American Hockey League next year with the Providence Bruins. It is still a possibility Boston might decide he would benefit from another year of junior hockey. We will watch his progress carefully but he will determine where he plays based on his on-ice performance."
"This is an exciting day for me," said Button. "I could not have done this without the support of the coaches, players, fans and billets in Seattle."
Button signed an Amateur Tryout Agreement with the Providence Bruins on March 29, nine days after the T-Birds 2010-11 regular season concluded. The Providence Bruins are the American Hockey League affiliate of the Boston Bruins. Button appeared in seven games with Providence and had a single assist.
Button was a third round pick, 86th overall, in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins.
The T-Birds acquired Button from the Prince Albert Raiders on January 10 for Charles Wells and the T-Birds first round selection in the 2011 CHL Import Draft.
Button appeared in 69 games with the T-Bird and Raiders combined. He had five goals and 30 assists for 35 points.
The Boston Bruins had until June 1 to sign Button to a NHL contract or he would become a free agent.
The T-Birds season ticket renewal deadline is Thursday, May 5. Season ticket holders who renew their tickets by May 5 will receive an exclusive Thunderbirds collapsible cooler bag. In addition those who pay their balance in full by May 5 will receive a FREE ticket to the Thunderbirds exhibition game on September 17 AND a $20 Concession Voucher valid for food/beverage at any T-Birds home game during the 2011-12 season.
Contact the T-Birds at 253-239-7825 or stbirds@seattlethunderbirds.com if you have season ticket renewal questions.
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