Flyers sign D Kessel to entry-level deal

The Flyers have signed defenseman Blake Kessel to an entry-level contract.

Kessel, 22), played the last three seasons at the University of New Hampshire, the first of which was as a teammate of Flyers left wing James van Riemsdyk.  The 6-2, 210-lb native of Madison, Wisconsin recorded five goals and 22 assists for 27 points in 39 games as a junior last season.  Prior to attending New Hampshire, he played two seasons for Waterloo in the USHL, the second of which saw him post 19 goals and 38 assists for 57 points in 59 games.

Kessel is the brother of Toronto RW Phil Kessel and is a cousin of Calgary RW David Moss. In addition, his sister Amanda is a forward for the US Women’s National Team and plays at the University of Minnesota.