The Boston Bruins have signed their third undrafted college free agent in recent weeks, signing University of Minnesota captain Jaxon Nelson on Tuesday to a one-year, entry-level contract with a $870,000 salary budget charge. Nelson will report to the Bruins’ American Hockey League club, the Providence Bruins, for an amateur tryout for the balance of the season.
Nelson, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound right-shot center, appeared in 39 games for the Golden Gophers in 2023-24, scoring 19 goals and assisting 12 times. Nelson appeared in 169 total collegiate games from 2019 to 24 and scored 42 goals and 47 assists. The 24-year-old forward impressed Boston’s management with his outstanding two-way game and leadership qualities.
Nelson becomes the third undrafted college free agent to sign with Boston this spring. Drew Bavaro, a Notre Dame defenseman, and Ryan Bischel, a goaltender, have previously signed with the Bruins. Bavaro agreed to a one-year, entry-level contract worth $867,500, while Bischel signed a one-year AHL agreement. Both players will be teammates with Nelson in Providence.
