The Florida Panthers signed centre Jonathan Huberdeau to an entry-level contract.
Huberdeau, the third-overall pick in the 2011 NHL Draft, will not be eligible to play in the NHL this season except on an emergency recall, according to TSN's Bob McKenzie.
The 18-year-old had an impressive training camp and pre-season with Florida, leading the team with three goals in five games, but was returned to the Saint John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL for another year of junior hockey.
“We are pleased to have signed Jonathan,” said Panthers GM Dale Tallon in a statement. “He is a proven winner who leads by example both on and off the ice. He is a great two-way player who shows passion for the game and makes players around him better. Jonathan had an excellent pre-season and we look forward to his progress this season with Saint John.”
