Panthers draft Ty Smilanic 74th overall
The Florida Panthers took forward Ty Smilanic with the 74th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft.
Ty Smilanic
Position: Left wing/Center
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 179 lbs
Age: 18
Club: U.S. National Team Development Program
Nationality: American
| GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 | 7 | 15 | 22 |
(Stats courtesy: Eliteprospects.com)
Smilanic is ranked No. 24 among North American prospects, but he would have likely been higher if it weren't for his injury-plagued campaign. The talented pivot battled mononucleosis last September before he suffered a high ankle sprain in November and a broken finger in February.
Despite missing time, Smilanic made the most of his opportunities and finished the season fourth on the USNTDP in points per game. The Colorado native will begin the 2020-21 campaign with the NCAA's Quinnipiac University.
What they're saying
"Three different significant injuries have taken their toll. When healthy, he’s a bundle of energy wrapped in skill and that will see him come to the fore," said Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino.
"Dynamic, raw scorer who has a chance to take huge steps once (or if) he gets stronger. The most talented of this year’s USA Hockey forwards, in my opinion," The Athletic's Scott Wheeler said.