MADISON, Wis. – Freshman forward Alex Turcotte, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings, will give up his remaining collegiate eligibility and sign with the Kings, the organization announced on Wednesday.

He and the Kings have agreed to terms on a three-year entry-level contract beginning in the 2020-21 season, according to Vice President and General Manager Rob Blake. He is expected to practice with LA's AHL affiliate, the Ontario Reign, on Thursday.

The Island Lake, Illinois, native wraps his collegiate career after recording nine goals and 26 points in 29 games for the Badgers. He currently sits tied for second in the Big Ten among freshmen scorers with 26 points (9g, 17a) in 29 games played. He was Big Ten Second Star of the Week on Nov. 12 and earned back-to-back Big Ten Third Star of the Week honors on Feb. 25 and March 3. Turcotte also played for Team USA at the 2020 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship in late December and early January.

The 5-11 Turcotte spent his two years prior to joining Wisconsin with the U.S. National Team Development Program, ranking sixth on the 2018-19 U.S. Under-18 Team in scoring with 62 points on 27 goals and 35 points in 37 games, despite missing 27 contests. He helped Team USA to third place at the 2019 IIHF Under-18 World Championship with four goals and nine points over seven games in Sweden.

"I'm excited for him," said head coach Tony Granato. "It's his dream to play in the NHL and he's going to a great organization. We wish him all the best."