McAllister finished sixth among NCAA players with 49 points in 39 games
The Florida Panthers have landed one of the top college hockey free agents on the market.
On Monday the team announced they've struck a deal with Western Michigan University forward Ryan McAllister.
The three-year, entry-level contract will begin with the 2023-24 season.
“Ryan is a talented playmaking forward who showcased his dynamic ability in his first season in college hockey,” Panthers General Manager Bill Zito said in a statement released by the team. “We are looking forward to his continued development within our club.”
With the NCAA hockey season nearing its end, the 21-year-old McAllister was considered among the best undrafted players out there.
He finished his freshman season with 49 points (13-36-49), 118 shots and a +21 rating in 39 games, leading all Broncos in scoring while finishing fourth among NCAA players in assists and sixth in points.
McAllister's big year with Western Michigan came after he worked his way up the Alberta Junior Hockey League ranks.
The London, Ontario native racked up 70 goals and 169 points over 99 AJHL games between 2019 and 2022. He earned CJHL and AJHL Most Valuable Player honors during the 2021-22 season after leading the league with 139 points.
McAllister is expected to kick off his professional hockey career with the Panthers over the summer when the team will host its annual development camp.
It's likely he'll play for the AHL's Charlotte Checkers next season while getting acclimated to the pro game, though a strong showing during training camp could always expedite things in terms of when he makes his NHL debut.