Ian Mitchell will serve as the University of Denver’s team captain during his junior season for the 2019-20 campaign, the program announced Friday afternoon.
Mitchell, who was drafted by the Blackhawks in the second round in the 2017 NHL draft, scored six goals and 21 assists in 39 games last season. The right-handed defenseman led the team with 12 points on the power play and 66 blocked shots. He also recorded one goal and two assists in five games for the Canadian men’s national junior team at the World Junior Championship.
“To be named captain is a tremendous honor,” Mitchell said in a release. “This is such a special program and without the leaders and teams of past years, this program would not be where it is today. Our team is looking forward to next season and excited for the opportunity to add to the tradition and success of Denver Hockey.”
Mitchell plans to sign with the Blackhawks after his junior season just like fellow prospect and former DU teammate Blake Hillman did. Hillman, who is set to be a restricted free agent this summer, signed his entry-level contract after being bounced in the regional final by Ohio State in 2018.
During his sophomore season, Mitchell and Pioneers advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four semifinals where they lost to UMass in overtime. Mitchell will look to lead DU to its ninth NCAA title and second in four years next April in Detroit.