Panthers Sign Former Canucks 2nd-Round Pick

The Florida Panthers have brought in some added toughness to the forward ranks, signing former 2nd-round draft pick Jonah Gadjovich to a one-year, one-way deal. 

We have agreed to terms with forward Jonah Gadjovich on a one-year, one-way contract.

📝 » https://t.co/cHvuyyzPz5 pic.twitter.com/4uPdmXar9L

— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) October 16, 2023

“Jonah is a physical, highly competitive forward who brings versatility and size to our roster,” said Panthers GM Bill Zito. "Highly competitive," translated, in this case, means he isn't afraid to throw his body (or fists) around. 

The 25-year-old, 6'2", 209-pound winger spent the last two seasons with the San Jose Sharks. He posted 128 penalty minutes and 196 hits across two seasons and 78 games with the Sharks. He also recorded 10 points and averaged just under nine minutes per night.

He'll replace another heavy hitter, Sam Bennett, who was placed on injured reserve. 

Gadjovich was originally selected 55th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. He only played one game in Vancouver before landing with San Jose for the last two seasons. 

He signed an AHL contract with Florida back in July, and had been skating with the injured reserve group during training camp and was said to be out "long-term." Safe to say he's recovered now. 

Photo: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports