The Ottawa Senators have won the bidding war for top NCAA free agent forward Stephane Da Costa, signing him to a two-year, entry-level contract.
Da Costa, a 22-year-old who went undrafted, had spent the last two seasons at Merrimack College. He had 14 goals and 31 assists in 33 games this season, and was a second-team Hockey East All-Star. He also helped Merrimack set a school record with 25 wins and earn its first NCAA Tournament bid.
Last season with Merrimack, the 5-foot-11, 180-pounder was named Hockey East and U.S. College Hockey Organization rookie of the year after totaling 16 goals and 29 assists in 34 games.
He's also played for France at the last two World Championships. At the 2010 event, he tied for the team lead with 2 assists and 3 points.
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