"Canadiens general manager Pierre Gauthier got a head start on his 2012 agenda Wednesday when he signed defence prospect Jarred Tinordi to a three-year entry-level contract.

Terms were not disclosed but the deal, which kicks in next season, has a total value in the $3-million range and includes a signing bonus.

"It seemed like the right time to get a deal done," Tinordi said by phone from London, Ont. "We started talking about a week ago and I'm happy to get a deal.""