Sunrise, FL - The Florida Panthers signed defenseman Michael Matheson to an entry-level contract on Wednesday.

Matheson, who will report to San Antonio of the American Hockey League, was selected by the Panthers in the first round (23rd overall) of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

"Michael is a talented, young, mobile, hard-working defenseman who we are pleased to have signed," said Panthers executive vice president and general manager Dale Tallon. "Since being selected in the first round of the NHL draft in 2012, Michael has led Boston College to three consecutive NCAA appearances, while also serving as the team's captain this past season. He is another one of our top prospects who will continue to develop his game playing while playing in the American Hockey League."

Matheson led all Boston College defensemen with 25 points (3G, 22A) during his junior season. He ended his collegiate career with 14 goals and 57 assists in 112 games.