Panthers’ Hyman Won’t Sign With Team; Trade Possible
By Max Marko
ESPN’s Craig Custance reported, via twitter, Tuesday that Florida Panthers draft pick Zach Hyman will not sign with the team before the unrestricted free agent deadline on August 16th.
Panthers have been notified that prospect Zach Hyman won't be signing w/them. Possible he gets traded before hitting UFA on Aug. 16.
— Craig Custance (@CraigCustance) April 21, 2015
The University of Michigan forward had his best season with the Wolverines this year. His topped all Michigan players with 22 goals and 54 points.
Hyman was selected in the 5th round in the 2010 NHL Draft by the Florida Panthers. He could be a great utility for an NHL club, as he normally plays wing but often takes draws at center.
This desicion by Hyman puts the Panthers in a very tough spot. Florida has a considerable amount of depth on the wings but the talent is just not there. Hyman easily led the group of prospect wingers with Quinton Howden as your closest argument. Howden has some promise, but it is clear that the Panthers will be targeting a winger come June during the draft, or through a trade (possibly the one Zach Hyman could find himself in).