Leafs sign Eric Knodel

SIGNING ALERT! SIGNING ALERT! SIGNING ALERT!

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed 2009 5th-round draft pick Eric Knodel to a one-year entry level contract. He will report to the Toronto Marlies immediately.

If you’re wondering how Knodel is able to play for the Marlies this season despite his contract not kicking in until next, that is because he signed a PTO (Pro Tryout) deal with the Leafs’ AHL team.

Knodel was originally picked 128th overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, the first draft of Brian Burke’s tenure as Leafs GM. He wreaks of Brian Burke-iness, too. He’s a 6’6″ 225lbs American defenceman (West Chester, Pennsylvania) who played college hockey. That’s a Brian Burke pick if I ever saw one, kids.

Jeffler is at every Marlies game so follow him for updates on the new Leafs signing’s progress.