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USHL Youngstown Phantoms

O'Connor Inks Deal with Ottawa

May 9, 2015 - United States Hockey League (USHL)
Youngstown Phantoms News Release


YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Today, the Ottawa Senators announced the signing of former Youngstown Phantoms goaltender Matt O'Connor to a two-year, entry-level contract. Terms of the deal were not released.

We are very excited to welcome Matt to the Senators family," Ottawa General Manager Bryan Murray said in a statement. "Matt is a fine example of both the type of player and person that our organization looks for when we are acquiring talent. We are confident that under the tutelage of our player development staff, Matt will have the opportunity to develop into an outstanding National Hockey League goaltender."

Regarded by many as the best free-agent prospect this season, O'Connor just wrapped up a stellar junior campaign at Boston University, leading the Terriers to the National Championship game. He ranked second in the country with 25 wins, while posting a 2.18 goals-against average, and a .927 save percentage. In 76 career games with Boston University, he accumulated a 40-21-10 record, along with a 2.55 GAA, and a .921 SV%.

Prior to his time in Boston, the Toronto, ONT, native spent two seasons with the Phantoms; from 2010-2012. He backstopped Youngstown to a playoff berth following the 2011-2012 season, and his 28 wins that year tied him for second in the USHL in that category. He also ranked in the top 14 in both GAA (3.04) and SV% (.902).

"We are very proud to see Matt sign with the Senators," said Phantoms Head Coach Anthony Noreen. "Matt did everything the right way, both on and off the ice, while he was in Youngstown, and he has undoubtedly earned this opportunity. We are excited to see what his future brings."

O'Connor becomes the sixth former Phantom to sign an NHL contract, joining Scott Mayfield (New York Islanders), Brandon Saad (Chicago Blackhawks), Jiri Sekac (Montreal Canadiens/Anaheim Ducks), Andrej Sustr (Tampa Bay Lightning), and Nathan Walker (Washington Capitals).

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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