Mike Matheson was assigned to AHL Portland on Wednesday.

Matheson was assigned to AHL Portland on Wednesday.

Analysis:

There was some thought that Matheson -- the Panthers' 2012 first-round pick -- would make the team out of camp, but he'll instead open his first full pro season in the AHL. The Panthers really like Matheson's all-around game, but any fantasy upside Matheson may offer is of the long-term variety.