BREAKING: Philadelphia Flyers sign another star to entry-level contract
Philadelphia Flyers general manager Danny Briere has announced that the team has reached an agreement with Massimo Rizzo, their seventh-round pick from the 2019 NHL draft, on a two-year entry-level contract. The contract will come into effect starting from the 2024-25 season.
Rizzo, aged 22, recently concluded a successful 2023-24 season, clinching the NCAA national championship with the University of Denver Pioneers. He impressed with 10 goals and 34 assists, accumulating a total of 44 points in 30 games. Rizzo’s outstanding performance earned him recognition on the NCAA NCHC Second All-Star Team and the NCAA West Second All-American Team. Additionally, he was nominated for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, marking a noteworthy conclusion to his collegiate career.
OFFICIAL: We signed forward Massimo Rizzo to a two-year, entry-level contract beginning with the 2024-25 season. #LetsGoFlyers https://t.co/M6DXHYqGpt
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) April 17, 2024
Having spent the last three seasons with the Pioneers, Rizzo has been a key contributor to their success, securing two national titles. Across his tenure, he amassed an impressive record of 39 goals and 87 assists, totaling 126 points and establishing himself as one of the top offensive forwards in collegiate hockey. Notably, during the 2021-22 season, Rizzo was named a finalist for the NCAA Rookie of the Year award, highlighting his early impact and potential in the sport.
Hailing from Burnaby, British Columbia, Massimo Rizzo was initially chosen as the 216th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes. However, his rights were later traded to the Philadelphia Flyers during the previous season in exchange for David Kase.
Before embarking on his college journey, Rizzo showcased his talent as a point-per-game player while representing the Penticton Vees and Coquitlam Express in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). He played a pivotal role in helping the Vees secure the BCHL Championship in 2017.
On the international stage, Rizzo represented Canada West in two World Junior A Challenge tournaments, tallying four points in 10 games. His contributions underscored his versatility and skill on the ice, further solidifying his reputation as a promising talent in hockey.