The Atlanta Thrashers have signed defenseman Zach Bogosian, the team's first-round selection (third overall) in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, to a multiple-year contract. As per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Bogosian, 18, appeared in 60 games with the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League last season and was the only OHL defenceman to lead his team in points with 61 (11 goals, 50 assists). He ranked second among league defensemen in regular-season assists and added three assists in five post-season contests with the Petes.
He represented the Eastern Conference at the 2008 OHL All-Star Classic, participated in the CHL Top Prospects game and was named to the 2008 OHL First All-Star Team. He was the second-ranked North American skater coming into the 2008 Entry Draft and was described by the NHL's Central Scouting Service as a 'franchise player' and 'ready to make the jump to the NHL very quickly.'
Bogosian also took part in the 2008 U.S. National Junior Evaluation Camp in Lake Placid, N.Y. from Aug. 4-9. He recorded two assists in four games during the week-long camp.
The native of Massena, N.Y. has recorded 94 points and 135 penalty minutes in 127 career OHL games with Peterborough. He was selected by the Petes in the first round, 19th overall, of the 2006 OHL Priority Draft.
