The Colorado Avalanche announced Saturday they’ve signed University of Michigan forward T.J. Hughes to a one-year entry-level contract starting next season.
The undrafted free agent was one of three finalists for the Hobey Baker Award. Detroit Red Wings prospect Max Plante won the award Friday.
Hughes finished second in NCAA scoring this season with 57 points in 40 games. His 22 goals were tied for ninth nationally.
Michigan’s season ended Thursday when they lost in double overtime to Denver in the Frozen Four semifinals. The loss marked the end of the 24-year-old’s college career.
Hughes put up 69 goals and 179 points across 156 games during his four seasons at Michigan.
He holds the record for most career points by a Wolverine since Kevin Porter, who played for Michigan from 2004-08. The Hamilton, Ontario native also recorded four assists in four games at the Spengler Cup with the first-ever U.S. Collegiate Selects team.
The signing gives Colorado another offensive prospect as they continue building depth in their system. Hughes will look to make the jump from college hockey to professional hockey next season.
