Mason Geertsen Signs Entry Level Contract

The Colorado Avalanche announced via twitter this evening that they have signed Mason Geertsen to a 3 year Entry Level Contract.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>NEWS: The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Avs?src=hash">#Avs</a> have signed defenseman Mason Geertsen to an entry-level contract.&#10;&#10;MORE: <a href="http://t.co/5q2j392PbW">http://t.co/5q2j392PbW</a> <a href="http://t.co/QTWLwxRxpk">pic.twitter.com/QTWLwxRxpk</a></p>&mdash; Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) <a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/580537338830434304">March 25, 2015</a></blockquote>

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Earlier this week we waxed poetic about the sudden and impressive development of the Avalanche's 2013 4th round pick 93rd overall) Mason Geertsen, culminating in his being named MVP of the Vancouver Giants after their final home game on Saturday night.  For a brief moment there seemed to be trouble in paradise, as Geertsen was unwilling to sign an ATO with the Monsters or report to Lake Erie until his ELC with the Avalanche was signed.  Geertsen was reportedly seeking a 2nd round ELC based on his junior level play instead of a 4th round ELC based on his draft position.  Tonight the contract dispute came to an end as the two teams agreed to terms on a 3-year deal which will likely slide to a 2015-2016 start.  Until then, expect Geertsen to suit up for the Lake Erie Monsters in the near future for his first taste of professional hockey.  The Monster's play next tomorrow night in Rockford against the Ice Hogs.

Geertsen has made massive strides since being drafted in the 4th round in 2013, but there's still a long way to go before he can play at an NHL level.  According to Steve Ewen at the province, Geertsen's says that:

“My goal is to have a strong summer and be good going into (Avalanche) camp and make a good impression,” said Geertsen. “I have to get stronger and faster.”

A stronger and faster Geertsen will be good news for the Avalanche.  Below are Geertsen's career stats in the WHL.