Highmore signs with Blackhawks

Matthew Highmore has signed an three-year entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks, the club announced today.

It's the first NHL contract for Highmore, who recently turned 21. He has attended rookie camps with the Montreal Canadiens and Florida Panthers in the past.

Highmore is currently seventh in Quebec Major Junior Hockey League scoring with 82 points in 58 games. He has already surpassed his career high in both points and goals (32). He currently leads the Sea Dogs in assists with 50.

The #Blackhawks sign forward Matthew Highmore to a 3-year deal. https://t.co/LDclsLvyQz

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 2, 2017

In his fifth season with Saint John, Highmore has recorded 88 goals and 240 points in 283 career QMJHL games. He's added nine goals and 21 points in 26 playoff games.

Highmore joins Nathan Noel as Blackhawks prospects on the Sea Dogs. Meanwhile, former Dog Tomas Jurco was recently traded to Chicago from the Detroit Red Wings.

Former Sea Dogs scout Peter Nevin is currently a part of the Blackhawks organization.

The Halifax native will remain with the Sea Dogs for the rest of the season before turning professional in 2017-18.