Dalpe informed the team Monday that he has decided to attend Ohio State and play for the Buckeyes this year, Canes general manager Jim Rutherford said Tuesday. Rutherford said Dalpe was offered a contract.

"I guess he can revisit it next year," Rutherford said. "We'll see how he plays next year, and we'll revisit it."

Dalpe, the 45th overall pick of the 2008 NHL draft, was at the Canes' prospect conditioning camp last month -- paying his own way to maintain his college eligibility -- and impressed with his hustle and attitude. The Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League, owned by Hurricanes owner Peter Karmanos, acquired Dalpe's junior rights this year and had hoped to sign him.

"This does not change our position on drafting him or his future with us," Rutherford said. "Our staff was excited and surprised to get him in the second round. Hopefully, they were right."

Get $150+ in coupons in every Sunday N&O. Click here for convenient home delivery.