Ben Steeves, a talented young forward from the University of Minnesota Duluth, has officially put pen to paper on his entry-level contract with the Florida Panthers, bidding adieu to the Bulldogs as he ventures into the realm of professional hockey. This development was reported by esteemed journalists Matt Wellens of the Duluth News Tribune and Brad Elliot Schlossman of the Grand Forks Herald.
During his tenure at UMD, Steeves left an indelible mark, emerging as the team leader in both goals (24) and points (34) throughout the 2023-24 season. His outstanding performance positioned him as the second-highest scorer in the NCHC and secured the top spot for power-play goals within the conference. Notably, he achieved a feat previously accomplished only by Justin Fontaine, becoming the first Bulldog to tally 20 or more goals in consecutive seasons.
In a mere two seasons at UMD, Steeves amassed an impressive 62 points from 45 goals and 17 assists in 72 games, cementing his reputation as a skilled and impactful player.
While the specifics regarding Steeves’ immediate future with the Panthers remain uncertain, his entry-level contract represents a monumental stride in his hockey career. The Florida Panthers boast affiliations with the Charlotte Checkers in the AHL and the Florida Everblades in the ECHL, offering a multitude of avenues for Steeves to hone his abilities before potentially making the jump to the NHL on a full-time basis.
As Steeves embarks on this pivotal juncture in his career, he leaves behind a formidable legacy at UMD and looks ahead to leaving a lasting impression in the professional hockey arena. His dedication and talent have captured the attention of the NHL, piquing the avid interest of fans eagerly anticipating his continued success on the ice.
As he steels himself for this next chapter with the Florida Panthers, Steeves’ journey serves as a testament to the culmination of relentless dedication and passion for the sport. With an illustrious track record and unwavering resolve, there is no doubt that Ben Steeves embodies a future brimming with promise in the NHL.
In summary, the signing of Ben Steeves with the Florida Panthers signifies an exhilarating development in the realm of hockey, heralding the emergence of a formidable talent poised to make an impact on the professional stage. The doors of opportunity have swung wide open for Steeves, and he stands resolute in making the most of the next phase in his career.
Source:
Northern News Now. All rights reserved.