On Wednesday, May 15th, it was announced that the Florida Panthers had agreed to terms with prospect Aleksi Heponiemi on a three-year, entry-level contract that will take effect during the 2019-20 season.
Drafted back in 2017 (2nd round, 40th overall), the Panthers managed to steal another Finnish gem, opting to go for the 5’11”, 154lb forward.
Playing with the Swift Current Broncos of the WHL during his draft year, Heponiemi recorded an outstanding slash line of 28G, 58A, and 86 points in 72 games.
In result of leading the WHL in assists (58) and points (86), Heponiemi was awarded the Jim Piggott Trophy, which is given to the WHL’s most valuable rookie player.