Sophomore forward Mason Appleton (27) looks to make a pass during the first period of the first round of the Big Ten Hockey Tournament against Ohio State University on March 16, 2017 at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. The Spartans were defeated by the Buckeyes, 6-3.

Appleton announced Thursday he is signing with the Winnipeg Jets, the team that drafted him in the 2015 NHL Draft. The three-year entry level contract has an average annual value of $758,333.

Excited to sign my first NHL contract with the @NHLJets. Looking forward to the next chapter of my career. pic.twitter.com/jpL8VOUllQ — Mason Appleton (@MTAppleton) July 13, 2017

Appleton was taken by the Jets in the sixth round of the 2015 NHL Draft, as the 168th overall selection. He played his last two seasons with the MSU hockey program.

In 2016-17, the Green Bay, Wisconsin native suited up in all 35 games. He led the Spartans with 12 goals, 19 assists and 31 total points. Appleton earned the team's MVP and Outstanding Offensive Player awards for his contributions on the ice.

As Danton Cole took the helm as head coach, Appleton was set to be Cole's first captain. However, now, Appleton departs for the two-way contract he signed.

Stay with The State News as details emerge.