Defenseman Seth Barton is turning professional after three seasons at UMass Lowell.
The 6-foot-3, 185-pound junior from Kelowna, B.C., has signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the Detroit Red Wings, who selected him with the 81st overall pick in the 2018 National Hockey League draft.
“We’re happy for him. He’s worked hard on and off the ice to get himself to a point where they want him to make the next step,” UML head coach Norm Bazin said.
Barton played in 83 college games, netting seven goals and 29 assists for 36 points. His 11 points this season tied him for the points lead among UML defensemen. He was on pace to have his best statistical season, but the River Hawks were limited to 20 games by COVID-19 positive tests.
“He made a big step his sophomore year from his freshman year. I think he made subtle steps this year in a limited amount of games,” Bazin said. “It’s very difficult to keep someone for four years.”
Barton set up one of the most memorable goals in program history. His backhand pass from behind the Boston College net during a March 17 Hockey East semifinal was deflected into the air. Matt Brown then swatted it into the cage, ending the second-longest game in program history and lifting the River Hawks to an improbable 6-5 double-overtime victory.
UML trailed 4-1 with under 10 minutes left in regulation.
“He’s a very good natured, easy going guy,” Bazin said of Barton. "We feel confident his absence will be covered. It's not a complete surprise."
Bazin said Barton was set to fly Wednesday morning to Grand Rapids, Mich., home of Detroit’s American Hockey League affiliate.
Grand Rapids’ roster includes former UML star goaltender Kevin Boyle.
