BC Hockey Preview of Champions: Mike Matheson, #5

There is no denying it: Boston College has a way of drawing in top hockey talent. In recent years, the Eagles have had players like Cam Atkinson, Chris Kreider, and Nate Gerbe putting on their sweater and hoisting championship trophies. If a program is going to remain elite, its elite talent must be replenished. That’s where Mike Matheson comes in.

This freshman defenseman from Pointe-Claire (Montreal), Quebec, is arguably the best inbound recruit for Boston College in 2012. It’s easy to see how: Matheson was a first-round draft pick of the Florida Panthers in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. They’re looking forward to getting him, but also to seeing how he does at BC. If he is anything like some of the solid NHL prospects who have preceded him, Matheson will have a tremendous Boston College hockey career and eventually emerge as a leader. (It might also mean he’s destined for a shorter stay in Chestnut Hill, but we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it).

Matheson played in Midget Leagues in Quebec before taking his act south of the border. Like a few other Eagles, including his past and present teammate Teddy Doherty, Matheson spent 2011-12 with the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL. On defense at Dubuque, he had the most offensive game: last year, Matheson totaled 27 points, including 11 goals.

His scouting reports speak very highly of his skills, particularly his skating:

"“He’s arguably the best skater in the draft. He can move the puck and I like guys like that.” (Dale Tallon, Panthers GM)"

At only 18 years old, the future is very bright for Matheson. Boston College’s future will similarly be bright as long as he’s around. Matheson’s game is multi-faceted and he can effectively perform on both ends of the ice. If he turns out the way we all think he will, it will be a pleasure to watch Matheson with the Eagles in the years ahead.