Gopher Jake Bischoff Agrees to Two-Year Contract with New York Islanders

Jake Bischoff has agreed to his entry level contract with the New York Islanders.

The left-shooting University of Minnesota defenseman, drafted in the seventh round (185th) in 2012, just completed his fourth season with the Golden Gophers, with whom he won Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. He also logged 32 points in 38 games this past season.

Bischoff is also a product of the USHL junior league, where he played two seasons with the Omaha Lancers.

In a release by the Minnesota hockey program, Bischoff thanked the University of Minnesota for four great years. “At the same time, I’m excited take the next step in my career by joining the New York Islanders organization.”

Also in that release, a quote from the longtime Minnesota coach:

“I’ve known Jake’s family since before he was born, and it’s been a privilege to have him in our locker room for the last four years,” Minnesota head coach Don Lucia said. “Like all of our seniors this year, he has been a great leader for us, and there is no question how much effort and dedication he brought to our program.”

As a 22-year-old, his entry level contract is for two years, and he’s certain to begin his career with the Islanders’ AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.

UPDATE: Indeed, reports have Bischoff reporting to Bridgeport on an ATO now, along with fellow NCAA signing John Stevens and the other Gaudreau. AHL ATO’s mean, among other things, their new contracts will kick in next season.