Sunrise, FL – The Florida Panthers announced on Monday that they have signed center Aleksander Barkov, the second overall pick in the 2013 draft, to an entry-level contract.
The 17-year-old Finnish center currently plays for Tappara Tempre of SM-liiga. In 53 games with Tappara last season, he scored 21 goals and added 27 assists.
"We are pleased to have signed Aleksander," said Florida general manager Dale Tallon. "He is a mature, strong and skilled forward who plays well at both ends of the ice and strengthens our line-up down the middle. Aleksander is a creative and dynamic player who our fans will enjoy watching. We look forward to his contributions to our organization both on and off the ice."
Barkov also represented Finland at the World Junior Championships the past two years. He notched three goals with four assists in six games at the last tournament.
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