Report: Jeremy Bracco Leaving Boston College
Another saga in the CHL vs. NCAA battle has unfolded, as yet another Toronto Maple Leafs’ prospect leaves their college commitment early to join the CHL ranks. Jeremy Bracco, the Leafs 61st overall pick in 2015, is reportedly leaving Boston College to join the Kitchener Rangers in the OHL.
There has been speculation that Bracco had favoured playing in the OHL over the NCAA at this stage of his game dating back to prospects camp. After he put up a very strong performance many believed the Leafs would prefer having one of their top prospects closer to home.
If the Leafs sit me down and say they think that’s better for my development. That’s a conversation I’m going to have with them.
Bracco leaving college was first reported by Mike McMahon of College Hockey News and later confirmed by both Boston College and Bob McKenzie;
Four sources say Jeremy Bracco will sign with the Kitchener Rangers. None will confirm the deal is signed but told it's happening soon.
— Mike McMahon (@MikeMcMahonCHN) October 28, 2015
Following up on @MikeMcMahonCHN report, TOR prospect Jeremy Bracco has informed Boston College he is leaving school.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) October 28, 2015
Despite being a standout player growing up through the NTDP and breaking many of their historical milestones, scoring in college is a different story altogether. Bracco had just three assists in five games with the Eagles in the NCAA- a far cry from what he was hoping to net.
As noted earlier, there was a heavy debate between whether or not Bracco would indeed go through with his original commitment to Boston College. With OHL calling and a reported deal with the Rangers many believed he would stay in Canada. However, Bracco seemed to almost run out of time with his early decision and decided to honor his commitment to the NCAA, despite not being 100% sold on that route.
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While there is no official deal signed with the Rangers at this point in time, Bracco is in Kitchener right now reportedly discussing a deal. While I’m no scientist for an American player to visit Kitchener in the middle of the hockey season is a little odd without a purpose.
At just 18 years-old with some skating flaws, playing against bigger, stronger and more mature players, the going would not have been easy for the youngster. In the CHL, he’ll be able to stand out against his peers and return to his scoring prowess.
Should he indeed join the Rangers as speculation points too, he’ll be joining one of the powerhouse teams in the OHL. The Rangers currently sit in first place having yet to lose a game in regulation, boasting a 9-0-3 record.
Interesting to note; Leafs prospect JJ Piccinich left Boston University after his freshman season and is currently doing quite well in the OHL with the London Knights.