Blue Jackets prospect Milano officially commits to OHL's Whalers

The Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League officially announced Thursday the commitment of Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Sonny Milano. As a result, the 18-year-old abandoned a prior pledge to Boston College.

"We are very pleased to have a player of this caliber joining our organization," Whalers general manager Mark Craig said. "My understanding is he lives for hockey and will bring a work ethic to our team that will force our players to a new level."

Milano will represent Columbus at the NHL Prospects tournament, which runs Sept. 12-16 in Traverse City, Mich. 

He'll presumably attend the club's training camp later that month, but Whalers head coach Don Elland is planning for a season with Milano on his roster: "We're very happy to have Sonny in Plymouth. He has the potential and ability to become a great player for us. Sonny's an exciting talent that will make our program stronger."

Milano is also expected to play for Team USA at the 2015 World Junior Championships.