The Florida Panthers made their first selection of the 2021 NHL Draft late Friday night - but it won't be someone you can expect to see inside the BB&T Center any time soon.
Florida selected forward Mackie Samoskevich with the 24th overall pick, with the Connecticut native already committed to playing for the University of Michigan in the 2021-22 season.
“Mackie is a dynamic playmaking forward who possesses great awareness and competitiveness,” said General Manager Bill Zito. “He is able to utilize his skills to beat opposing defenders on a consistent basis, and we look forward to watching him continue his success at the University of Michigan in 2021-22.”
The 18-year-old has spent parts of the last three seasons playing for the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League, where he amassed 73 points over 85 career games.
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He produced 10 points in eight postseason games to help lead Chicago to a Clark Cup championship last season.
The NHL Draft continues Saturday with the Panthers entering the day holding five picks over the remaining rounds.
