Harvard Loses Fourth Player To Pros

Harvard defenseman Reilly Walsh has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New Jersey Devils. Walsh becomes the fourth member of the Crimson in recent weeks to sign a pro contract, as there is growing concern college hockey, and particularly Harvard and some other Ivy League schools, may not play hockey this fall.

Walsh’s deal comes after Harvard already lost Jack Drury, Henry Bowlby and Jack Rathbone, who was one of Harvard’s top defensemen alongside Walsh.

Walsh was New Jersey’s fourth selection (third round), 81st overall, in the 2017 NHL Draft.

“We are excited to add Reilly to the Devils’ organization,” Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald said. “Since being drafted in 2017, our staff has watched him blossom into the leader he is today, both on and off the ice. Walsh is a fast, puck-moving defenseman who has developed his all-around game this past season. He was a dynamic playmaker for Harvard, with an offensive mind that allowed him to easily transition and jump up into the play if needed. He has the skillset our club is looking for and adds to our stable of defensive professional prospects joining the organization.”

Walsh finished his collegiate career with Harvard posting 27 goals and 51 assists for 78 points in 96 games played. This past season he had 27 points (8g-19a) in 30 games for the Crimson.