The Florida Panthers have selected Jonathan Huberdeau third overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

Huberdeau possesses a smooth, long stride that helps him generate an impressive blend of speed and power. Like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, the Saint John Sea Dogs standout has electrifying hands and can make highlight reel plays through traffic. One-on-one, the St. Jerome, PQ. native can make defenders look flat out silly.

When on the attack, Huberdeau can display impressive vision and is able to complete difficult passes to teammates that aren’t seemingly open. He can also finish off those exact same plays, possessing a strong, quick and accurate snapshot. His 62 goals and 105 points will certainly attest to that, as will his QMJHL playoffs and Memorial Cup MVP honours.

Without the puck, Huberdeau has a strong understanding of how plays will develop, which helps him in his own end. This, along with his competitiveness, make him more than competent on his side of the red line.

Again like Nugent-Hopkins, Huberdeau is on the thin side. He’ll eventually grow into his six-foot-two frame, but that hasn’t stopped him from being physically aggressive in puck battles.

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