Florida Panthers Prospect Profile: Ian McCoshen

With the 31st pick in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, the Florida Panthers selected defenseman Ian McCoshen. A member of the Waterloo Black Hawks (USHL) at the time who would go on to play NCAA hockey at Boston College. 

Ian McCoshen

Defense — shoots L
Born Aug 5 1995 –Hudson, WI
Height 6’3 — Weight 218 lbs. Springfield Thunderbirds — 59GP, 4G, 12A

If you could classify someone as a “Two-way Defenseman” that’s pretty much where McCoshen falls, a very solid D man with some good offensive zone abilities. A big 6’3 frame who’s a great skater and has a hard shot from the point, it’s no surprise why he is the Panthers number one defensive prospect.

In his three years of NCAA play he posted career stats of 17 Goals and 33 Assists, amassing 50 points in 110 games at Boston College. Great but not overwhelming numbers for sure, and very well-rounded once considering his defensive play. He would have returned to be the Eagles captain, but instead signed and entry-level contract with the Cats to go pro.

When asked what he’s trying to work on and improve with the Springfield Thunderbirds McCoshen said, “I’m just trying to develop the defensive side of my game because that’s probably what’ll translate more to being in the NHL.” 

“Having the confidence and belief in yourself to do that kind of translates to the offensive side, too, because if you’re playing well defensively then you have the urge to make more plays and you have that confidence to shoot pucks and be more creative in the offensive zone.” Strong and promising words from an up and coming guy, whom we may see in the Florida Panthers lineup sooner than later.

Though he isn’t your typical offensive defenseman, he plays a very hard-nosed game which is something the Cats have definitely lacked at the blue line this season. Hopefully he can bring his big physical presence to clear bodies and pucks but also showcase his speed in transition. My personal dream is to reunite him and former BC teammate Michael Matheson on the blue line, but the probability of that happening is probably low.

However the probability of losing a defenseman in the upcoming expansion draft is very high. That being said we could see McCoshen dawning a Panthers jersey this upcoming regular season, especially if we see the departure of either Mark Pysyk or Alex Petrovic. That is if the front office feels he is ready to make the leap of course, he’ll be here and we’ll all be excited to see what the big D man can do at the NHL level.