Erie Otters sign Frankie Pucci
Multiple sources have confirmed that 1997 birth-year centre Frankie Pucci — who led the Soo Indians major midgets in scoring in 2013-2014 — has signed with the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League.
The speedy Pucci, who had 24 goals, 38 assists, 62 points in 52 games in helping the Indians reach the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association state championships in 2013-2014, was a 12th-round pick by Erie from the Soo Thunder minor midgets at the 2013 OHL draft.
Listed at 5-foot-8, 140 pounds a year ago, Pucci has since filled out to 5-foot-10, 162 pounds.
In signing with Erie, Pucci is expected to begin the 2014-2015 season in the OHL, though the Otters could assign him to an affiliate junior team for further development.
Scott Halpenny, who is Erie’s Sault Ste. Marie-based scout, politely declined comment when asked by HockeyNewsNorth.com if the Otters had signed Pucci.
But as HockeyNewsNorth.com sources have confirmed, Erie has committed to Pucci — and the Otters, through general manager Sherry Bassin and assistant GM Dave Brown, are waiting to announce it and another player signing simultaneously.
PHOTO: Frankie Pucci led the Soo Indians in scoring in 2013-2014. (Photo by Mark Krupiarz.)
Good signing!