Leafs Dip Into NCAA Pool, Sign Brenner
Photo Credit: Rochester Institute of Technology
Update: Dave Morrison on what the Leafs like about Brenner’s game – “Strong game, physical, goes to net. Able to score the garbage type goals.”
The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed 6’2″, 190 pound forward Tyler Brenner, of the NCAA’s Rochester Institute of Technology (Tigers, Division I), to a two-year conract.
From Andy Strickland: “Brenner considered five NHL offers including Anaheim and Boston … The Ontario native gets $810,000 in salary, $90,000 in a signing bonus, plus regular bonuses. He’ll make $67,500 in the AHL.”
With RIT’s season coming to a close, the Leafs moved quickly to sign Brenner, who played a pivotal role in the Tigers’ finish at the top of the Atlantic Hockey Association standings.
The 22 year old Brenner, a native of Linwood, ON, scored 26 goals and 15 assists in 37 games this season, including 11 goals on the power play.  His goal total ranked 7th in the NCAA, helping him earn second team all-AHA honors.
Said RIT’s head coach Wayne Wilson: “Tyler has made a great impact on our program and we are glad to be a contributing factor in his development. Getting his degree and now signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs is a real credit to him and his family and a dream come true.” (source)
Brenner has signed an Amateur Tryout contract with the Toronto Marlies for the balance of the season. He is expected to suit up for the Marlies tomorrow vs Grand Rapids.
