Selects Academy's Alexis Binner commits to UMaine

Selects Academy 18U defenseman Alexis Binner verbally committed to play college hockey at the University of Maine earlier this week. A Stocksund, Sweden native, this was his first season in the United States, playing in the USPHL 18U Division.

Binner, a big blue liner, had one goal and 14 assists in 26 regular season games. He added two assists in four playoff games. Binner is big for his age and has what looks like the making of a good skill set.

According to one observer who's seen him play numerous times, Binner's decision making is questionable and he sometimes tries to do too much, but if he works on that part of his game, he could be a very nice pickup for the Black Bears.

Binner, who has great offensive tools, is considered quite raw, but there were quite a few schools interested in his services based on what type of player he projects to be down the line. More than a few observers believe he has the potential to be a high end Division I defenseman by the time he arrives in Orono for the 2017-18 season.

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Jeff Cox covers college, junior, high school and prep hockey, NCAA recruiting and NHL Draft prospects. Follow him on Twitter @JeffCoxSports.