Ryan McDonagh has made it official: The Wisconsin defenseman is heading to the pros.
McDonagh has agreed to terms with the New York Rangers and is the fourth player this offseason to leave the Badgers with eligibility remaining.
McDonagh, who was set to be the Badgers’ captain in 2010-11, was plus-22 and had 18 points as a junior last season.
Three of the Badgers’ early departures are defensemen. Brendan Smith signed with Detroit, and Cody Goloubef signed with Columbus.
Related link: Early departures in 2010 offseason
Forward Derek Stepan also recently finalized his move to the pros, signing with the Rangers.
McDonagh was Montreal’s first-round choice, No. 12 overall, in 2007. The Rangers acquired his rights via a June 2009 trade.
