Frisco, TX (SportsNetwork.com) - The Dallas Stars signed 2014 first-round draft pick Julius Honka to a three-year, entry-level contract on Monday.

The Stars selected the 18-year-old defenceman 14th overall in last month's NHL Draft.

"We are happy to have signed Julius quickly so that the young defenseman can continue the process of developing his game," said Stars general manager Jim Nill. "He's highly skilled, moves the puck extremely well and is very competent at running a power play. We are really excited about his potential and think he has the tools to grow into an NHL defenseman in the near future."

Honka, a native of Finland, made a seamless transition to the North American game with Swift Current of the Western Hockey League last season, leading all blueliners on the team with 56 points (16 goals, 40 assists).