MSU captain Torey Krug announces deal with Bruins

By Michael Caples –

EAST LANSING – Since he started playing hockey in metro Detroit, Torey Krug always heard about how he was too small to make a career out of the game he loves.

Today, the 5-foot-9-inch defenseman proved all of the doubters wrong.

At a press conference held at Munn Ice Arena Sunday afternoon, Krug announced that he had signed a deal with the Boston Bruins, forgoing his senior season at Michigan State.

The Spartans’ captain and CCHA Player of the Year, formerly an undrafted free agent, will head to Boston tomorrow morning to begin practicing with the defending Stanley Cup champions.

Krug said that while he is living out every hockey player’s dream, it’s with mixed emotions.

“I’ve been blessed to have the support that I’ve had, with Coach Anastos and the coaching staff, my teammates, alumni of the Michigan State hockey program,” Krug said. “It’s a bittersweet experience, we worked so hard to get the Michigan State hockey program back to where it should be, competing for national championships on a regular basis and conference championships.

“I’m very blessed to be a part of Michigan State. I want to thank my teammates, my coaching staff, the athletic department support, and the university as a whole for the support they’ve given me, and making the last three years the best three years of my life.”

Krug said that he will be leaving for Boston tomorrow morning, to begin practicing with the NHL club.

In a press release, Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli said his organization is very happy to have the Spartan joining their ranks.

“Torey has had an outstanding career at Michigan State,” Chiarelli said. “He is a very intelligent player who is a terrific skater and shooter. But what stands out the most with Torey is his character. He is a two-time captain and a tremendous competitor. We are thrilled to have him signed and look forward to seeing him contribute to the Bruins.”

Krug is one of 10 finalists for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award, given annually to the top player in collegiate hockey. The Spartans captain also received five awards for his impressive season in the CCHA – Player of the Year, Best Offensive Defenseman, All-CCHA First Team, and his school’s Perani Cup winner for most “three stars of the game” nominations.

Like former Spartan Justin Abdelkader, Krug will continue to pursue his degree while competing in the professional ranks.