Photo: Ed McPherson/OJHL Images

A big trade deadline acquistion for the Wellington Dukes is foregoing his overage season to begin his NCAA journey a year earlier than expected as Justin Paul has committed to St Lawrence University for the 2020-21 season.

Paul joined the Dukes after a trade with the Georgetown Raiders near the trade deadline and instantly became an impact player for Wellington. The 19 year old forward was a key part of the offense, putting up 18 points (6 goals, 12 assists) in just 21 games with the Dukes. During the season with both the Raiders and Dukes, Paul put up 31 points in 46 games. He also added an addition 2 assists in as many games during the first round of the Buckland Cup Playoffs versus the Cobourg Cougars.

Paul announced his commitment to the St Lawrence University Saints in September of 2019 when he was a member of the Georgetown Raiders. The commitment was originally announced for the 2021-22 season, but after a successful season with the Raiders and Dukes, his commitment was moved up a year. Dukes Head Coach Derek Smith said the speedy forward was ready to make the jump to the next level. "Justin is a student of the game. He has a very intelligent hockey mind that helps him excel on both side of the puck. Not only did he add some explosive speed and skill to our lineup but he has great work ethic and leadership skills; skills that will help him tremendously at the NCAA level".