The Boston Bruins have been informed by Blake Wheeler's agent that he will sign an entry level contract with the team once the July 1 signing period begins (first mentioned on this site courtesy of reader "SilentObserver"). Wheeler was selected 5th overall in 2004 by the Phoenix Coyotes and since he declared that he was leaving school in May and was unable to work out a contract with the Coyotes, he became a free agent. Standing at 6-4 and 220 lbs., Wheeler has prototypical size for an NHL power forward. He most likely will line up at wing for the Bruins at some point during the 2008-2009 season, but he may have to spend some time in Providence. Playing for the Minnesota Golden Gophers for 3 seasons, Wheeler totaled 42 goals and 54 assists for 96 points in his three year career.

This may change the Bruins' draft strategy and my pipe dream of Kyle Beach falling to the Bruins seems a tad unrealistic. Beach will probably get snatched up by the Vancouver Canucks who own the 10th overall pick. I would expect the Bruins to go with a winger or a defenseman because the depth of their system lies in the center position. Either way, expect the Bruins to take the best player on their board; if their selection happens to be a center, he may get converted to wing upon moving into the system.

You A Bad Mang is a senior writer for Boston Sports Buzz.