Florida Panthers draft Steven Hodges, 84th overall

With their second selection in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, the Panthers select forward Steven Hodges of the Victoria Royals.

From Corey Pronman of Hockey Prospectus

Hodges is an interesting prospect as I heard a ton of praise for his offensive skills, yet he didn’t really put up the numbers this season to really suggest much value. Still, he seems like the kind of player worth reaching on in the middle rounds that has the upside to surprise. Hodges is an above-average skater who is quick off the line, generates good power off his first few steps and gets to a pretty good top gear. He has a smooth, refined stride that could add speed as his leg strength improves. Hodges is a smart player who makes a lot of good little plays with his puck distribution and off-the-puck work, but also has the sense to show good playmaking ability. He’s at his best when creating offense for his teammates, but also has solid hands and certainly has the individual ability to be a threat with the puck when given open ice. Hodges has a pretty underdeveloped frame, though, and combined with his poor size, he’s easily pushed around and isn’t much of a threat in the physical game. Several scouts I’ve talked to have also used the “soft” label on Hodges in regards to his physical game.

More after the jump…