From HeraldNet's Nick Patterson: (Josh) Birkholz arrived in Everett to the fanfare of a third-round NHL draft pick. However, the Tips weren't certain exactly what they were getting in Birkholz, as neither Soetaert nor coach Craig Hartsburg had ever seen him play. So far, Birkholz has been everything advertised, showing excellent speed and a strong shot to go along with his solid frame. "I'd talked to NHL scouts about his ability to play the game and his strong suits," (Everett GM Doug) Soetaert said. "Obviously every one of the scouts nailed it. He's an extremely powerful skater, his first three strides are extremely explosive, and he's got an NHL shot." More on the Panthers' third round selection in 2009 above.