Jets sign Sami Niku to entry-level contract

According to their official website, the Winnipeg Jets have inked 2015 seventh round pick Sami Niku to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Niku, a 6’0 left-handed defenceman from Haapavesi, Finland, has spent his entire hockey career playing in his native country. Last season was sort of a breakout for him, as Niku put up five goals and 22 assists in 59 games with JyP HT Jyvaskyla of the Finnish Elite League, which is quite impressive for a 19-year-old. Niku will head overseas next season to develop in the Jets system in North America.

The Jets now have four players from their 2015 draft class signed. Both first round picks, Kyle Connor and Jack Roslovic, along with second round selection Jansen Harkins have inked entry-level deals. The Jets have a few weeks left to sign Michael Spacek and Matteo Gennaro before they’re able to re-enter the draft, while Mason Appleton and Erik Foley, being NCAA players, still have two more years of eligibility before the Jets will lose their rights.