The news broke last night prior to the Florida Panthers huge 3-0 win over the New York Islanders that the club had signed its first round pick (23rd overall) from the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Henrik Borgstrom, to a three -year entry-level contract.
#FlaPanthers Agree to Terms with Forward Henrik Borgström on a 3-Year, Entry-Level Contract.
» https://t.co/W76hRER8ox pic.twitter.com/39Ah0UDZLX
— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) March 26, 2018
Considered a reach at the time, the lanky Finn came to North America and lit it up for the University of Denver, becoming one of the top prospects playing outside the NHL.
In his first NCAA season, Borgstrom put up 22 goals and 21 assists in 37 games played as the Pioneers captured the National Championship.
As a sophomore, Borgstrom racked up 23 goals and 29 assists as Denver advanced to the Elite Eight before being eliminated from the NCAA Tournament this weekend by Ohio State.
As soon as Borgstrom plays a game for Florida this season he will burn a year on his contract. If he plays in over ten games (this would now have to include playoff appearances) he would be eligible for a potential 2020 Expansion Draft for Seattle and need to be protected.
Borgstrom could see action as soon as Wednesday when the Panthers visit the Toronto Maple Leafs. It will be interesting to see if he makes his debut at Air Canada Centre and where he slots into the lineup.
Welcome to the fold, Henrik!