NHL’s Florida Panthers select Penetanguishene prospect 48th overall - CTV News
The Florida Panthers have selected forward Simas Ignatavicius with the 40th overall pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. Ignatavicius, born in Memphis, Tennessee, to Lithuanian parents, spent his formative years in Europe and has represented Lithuania on the international stage. His journey to professional hockey began unexpectedly during a family outing.
Ignatavicius shared that his introduction to hockey occurred during a visit to a mall in Lithuania. While having pizza with his father, he observed a hockey practice in one of the few ice rinks available in the country, many of which are located inside malls. This initial sighting of someone skating and playing with a puck sparked his interest in the sport, leading him to pursue hockey.
His father, Mantas, a former professional basketball player for approximately 15 years, initially brought his son to basketball practices. However, Ignatavicius expressed a preference for hockey, finding basketball to be too slow. This early dedication to hockey eventually led to a significant opportunity when he was 12 years old.
Early Career and European Play
At 12, Ignatavicius received an offer to play hockey in Switzerland, which required him to leave home. This moment marked a turning point for his father, who began to recognize the seriousness of his son’s passion for the sport. Before signing the contract, Ignatavicius discussed the decision with his father, who emphasized the sacrifices involved. Ignatavicius confirmed his commitment without hesitation, solidifying his father’s belief in his ambition.
During the 2025-26 season, Ignatavicius primarily played for Geneve-Servette HC in the National League. In 52 games with the team, he recorded seven goals and six assists, accumulating 13 points. Geneve-Servette finished third in the National League with a record of 31 wins, 18 losses, and 3 draws. In the playoffs, he contributed two goals and one assist for three points in 11 games before Geneve-Servette was eliminated in the semifinals.
In addition to his time with Geneve-Servette HC, Ignatavicius was loaned to HC Thurgau in the Swiss League. There, he played eight games, scoring seven goals and providing four assists, for a total of 11 points. He also participated with Geneve-Servette’s U21 team, where he registered four goals and three assists, tallying seven points in four games, and added one assist in two relegation games.
Draft Projections and Historical Context
Leading up to the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, Ignatavicius was projected to be selected around the 35th overall pick across various main draft rankings. His projected draft position ranged from as high as 27th to as low as 52nd. NHL Central Scouting ranked him as the 10th among European skaters. One prospect analyst projected him to be selected at 35th overall.
Ignatavicius’s selection by the Panthers makes him the third Lithuanian player ever drafted into the NHL. He joins a small group that includes Darius Kasparaitis, who was drafted fifth overall in 1992, and Dainius Zubrus, selected 15th overall in 1996. Despite being born in Memphis, Tennessee, Ignatavicius has chosen to represent Lithuania in international competitions.
Scouts have noted Ignatavicius’s versatility and impact on the game, both with and without the puck. Described as a 6-foot-3 forward, he has drawn attention for his performance in Switzerland’s top league and his dominance in international play. His attributes include strong defensive play, an effective shot release, and a combination of physical presence and skill. His selection marks a significant step in his journey from discovering hockey through a pizza outing to being drafted into the NHL.
Ignatavicius expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, calling it a dream come true, after being selected by the Florida Panthers on Saturday at KeyBank Center.
Source: nhl.com
