“I feel like it was the time” – why Sampo Ranta turned pro now

He could have played one more year at the University of Minnesota, and nobody would have begrudged him that. Being a hockey player at “The U” is a life of exalted status and privilege. For Sampo Ranta, though, the time was right to move on. The Avalanche prospect signed a three-year, entry-level deal Saturday, foregoing his senior season with the Golden Gophers for a chance to be a pro now.