The Colorado Avalanche have signed forward Dominic Toninato to a two-year, entry-level contract through the 2018-19 season. Toninato became a college free agent on Aug. 15.

Toninato, 23, wrapped up a four-year career with Minnesota Duluth in 2016-17, serving as team captain during his senior season. The 6-foot-2, 200-pound center registered 29 points (16g/13a) in 42 games and finished with a team-high +25 plus/minus rating, helping the Bulldogs capture their first-ever National Collegiate Hockey Conference title and advancing to the NCAA Frozen Four championship game. He was named to the NCHC All-Tournament Team alongside current Avalanche forward Tyson Jost and named the league’s best defensive forward, finishing with 29 blocked shots.

In 151 career games with Minnesota Duluth, Toninato accumulated 91 points (54g/37a) and finished with a +43 plus/minus rating.

“We are excited to announce that Dominic has decided to sign with our organization,” said Avalanche Executive Vice President / General Manager Joe Sakic. “He is a big, responsible two-way center and represents a solid prospect for the future of our team.”