PATS’ STEPHENSON SIGNS PRO DEAL

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals have signed center Chandler Stephenson to a three-year, entry-level contract beginning the 2014-15 season, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today.

Stephenson, 19, was drafted by the Capitals in the third round, 77th overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft and spent the last four seasons with the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League (WHL). Stephenson registered a career-high 89 points (30 goals, 59 assists) in 69 games with the Pats this season and ranked tied for sixth in the WHL in assists, 14th in points and first in the league in shorthanded goals (8).

Stephenson compiled 45 points (14 goals, 31 assists) in 46 games with Regina in 2012-13, ranking third among Pats skaters in points and assists and fourth on the team in goals. In 2011-12, Stephenson recorded 42 points (22 goals, 20 assists) in 55 games with the Pats. The 6’0″, 199-pound center finished the season ranked third on the team in goals, fourth in points and participated in the 2012 CHL Top Prospects Game. As a rookie in 2010-11, Stephenson tallied 19 points (seven goals, 12 assists) in 60 games. The Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, native has recorded 195 points (73 goals, 122 assists) in 230 career WHL games.