Leblanc led ECAC Hockey freshmen with 11 league goals last season (photo courtesy Patrick Shanahan).

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.—Louis Leblanc, the 2009-10 Ivy League Rookie of the Year as a member of the Harvard men's hockey team, has signed a professional contract with the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League, forgoing his final three years of collegiate eligibility.

The three-year contract was announced Friday night by Canadiens general manager Pierre Gauthier. As per club policy, financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Leblanc, a native of the Montreal suburb of Kirkland, Que., was selected in the first round, 18th overall, by Montreal at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

“While we're disappointed Louis won't be returning to Harvard next year, we are very proud and excited for him as he begins his professional career with his hometown organization,” said Ted Donato '91, the Robert D. Ziff '88 Head Coach for Men's Ice Hockey. “Having talked often with Louis throughout the summer, I know he enjoyed his time at Harvard and this was a very difficult decision for him. We wish him well in the future.”

Leblanc led Harvard with 11 goals and 23 points last season. He was a finalist for ECAC Hockey Rookie of the Year, was named to the ECAC All-Rookie team and garnered All-Ivy League honorable mention.