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The Boston College hockey program received good news yesterday as Colorado Avalanche prospect Alex Newhook announced that he will be returning to school for the 2020-2021 season.
Like future teammate Cale Makar a few years ago, Newhook has decided to forego turning pro after a sensational freshman season in favor of continuing his development at the NCAA level.
“I think for me, the plan has not changed as of now,” Newhook told Ryan Clark of The Athletic. “The Avs are a really strong team and they have a lot of depth. I am in a good spot at BC, and to be in a good spot like this and have this position of not being rushed and not being forced out of a good spot makes my situation that much better.”
Some speculated that the plan might have changed given how far Newhook has grown this season. He scored 19 goals and 23 assists for 42 points this season - leading all freshmen in goals - and was named the Hockey East Rookie of the Year Award.
Newhook led the Boston College Eagles in scoring - something you don’t usually see from a freshman, The Eagles were ranked #5 in the country, with a 24-8-2 record before the remainder of the season was canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Along with being one of the favorites for next year’s Hobey Baker, Newhook is expected to play a big role for Team Canada at the World Junior tournament next December - assuming it takes place.
The Avalanche lucked out when Newhook dropped to them at 16th overall. The speedy center was believed by many to be a top-10 talent in the 2019 draft class and his performance this season only confirmed that. The St. John’s, Newfoundland native is one has some of the best offensive instincts in the NCAA and plays the type of up=temp style that will help him fit in perfectly in Colorado.
His sophomore season will likely be his last at BC as Newhook will likely sign a contract with the Avalanche and jump straight to the NHL a year from now.
Receive pass. Top shelf. Celly.
— BC Hockey (@BCHockey) February 4, 2020
Typical Alex Newhook #WeAreBC pic.twitter.com/Rp4XtqYgtA