Winterhawks’ De Leo signs with Winnipeg

The Winnipeg Jets signed Portland Winterhawks Chase De Leo to a three-year entry level contract on Thursday.

The Jets had selected De Leo in the fourth round, 99th overall, in the 2014 National Hockey League Draft.

De Leo will enter his 20-year-old season in 2015-16 and will be eligible to play in the American Hockey League.

He played in 279 games over four seasons with the Winterhawks and amassed 110 goals and 141 assists for 251 points. De Leo, a member of Portland’s 2012-13 championship team, played in 81 career playoff games with 22 goals and 34 assists for 56 points.

“Chase has been an important part of the team’s success during his time in Portland, and if he moves on to the professional ranks next season then we wish him all the best as he continues his career,” said Winterhawks general manager and head coach Jamie Kompon. “Chase is a dynamic offensive player, but it’s his commitment to playing a 200-foot game that will help him succeed at the next level.”