The Avalanche have announced that the team has signed forward Mitchell Heard to a three-year, entry-level contract. Heard, 20, was Colorado's first pick (second round, 41st overall) in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. He averaged a point-per-game with the OHL's Plymouth Whalers in 2011-12, collecting 57 points in 57 games. "We are pleased to have Mitchell under contract," said Avalanche GM/Executive Vice President Greg Sherman. "He is coming off a strong season in the OHL and we are excited to see him at training camp."