Winnipeg Jets sign Brendan Lemieux to ELC

Earlier on Friday the Winnipeg Jets announced that they agreed to terms with forward prospect Brendan Lemieux.

The Jets announced that Lemieux has signed a three-year, two-way entry-level contract. The deal has an average annual value of 1.125M.

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Brendan Lemieux is the son of former NHL player Claude Lemieux. Last year with the Barrie Colts from the OHL, Lemieux scored 41 goals and 19 assists (60 points) in 57 games, while also recording 145 PIMs.

Blessed to sign my first NHL contract with the @NHLJets Want to thank my family, teammates coaches and friends for their support #GoJetsGo
— Brendan Lemieux (@blemieux22) July 3, 2015

Lemieux was a second round draft pick in the 2014 NHL Draft going to the Buffalo Sabres at 31st overall. He was traded to the Winnipeg Jets in a deal that sent Tyler Myers, Drew Stafford, Joel Armia and a first round draft pick in exchange for Evander Kane, Zach Bogosian and Jason Kasdorf.

For those interested, here is a scouting report written by Brock Otten of OHL Prospects on Lemieux.

"“Brendan Lemieux is definitely Claude’s son. He’s a chip off the ol’ block and plays the game the same way his father does. His compete and intensity levels are off the charts. If he loses the puck, he’s going to go through a wall to get it back. He’s certainly not the fastest player on the ice, but he’s a very effective forechecker because of his anticipation and because of his strength along the boards. Again, despite a lack of elite speed, he beats defenders to loose pucks on the dump and he beats them to the front of the net for rebounds because he wants it more than they do. Obviously, at the next level, sheer will won’t win him races to the puck, so that’s something he’s going to need to work on. Improving his first few steps and top gear would also help him offensively too and allow him to generate more chances on net drives. His biggest asset offensively is his ability to play the crease. He’s got terrific hands and is a master of the redirect. He feeds off the battle in front of the net and when combined with his 6’1, 200lbs frame, that makes him a very tough tie up for defenseman trying to clear the crease. His shot and the quickness of his release definitely improved this year, but will need further improvements in order to carry over his goal scoring prowess. Even though he was consistent all year, he also got better as the season went on and finished on a high note, scoring 12 in his final 16 (including the playoffs). I think he probably sneaks into the late first and just can’t see him falling despite some skating concerns.”"

Brendan Lemieux will take part in the Jets’ Development Camp this weekend and likely play this season with the Manitoba Moose of the AHL.