The Florida Panthers made their one and only pick in Round 1 of 2012's NHL Draft on Friday night and selected defenseman Michael Matheson at No. 23. Matheson is committed to play for Jerry York at Boston College, but he's considered an elite prospect with loads of potential who's not expected to contribute for the Cats in the near future.
Matheson is a 6'1 Canadian who played for Dubuque in the USHL last season will need to add some bulk to his frame at BC. More on Matheson from SB Nation's Matt Wagner:
A native of Pointe-Claire, Quebec, Matheson was ranked 30th among North American skaters by NHL Central scouting. Considered an "effortless" skater, the 6'1" defender lead Dubuque in scoring by defensemen, and was tied for sixth overall on the club. He has committed to Boston College and will begin classes in the fall. His major issue is his size, given that he has yet to put bulk onto his frame at just 175 lbs.
For more on the Florida Panthers check out Litter Box Cats. You can check out more hockey news from around the league at SB Nation's NHL page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel: