Canucks Player Grades 2024-2025
- Kyle Welsford
- May 10
- 27 min read
Updated: Jun 7
Grading Scheme:
A: Exceptional, Fantastic, Great
B: Good, Solid, Quality
C: Average, Ordinary, Meh
D: Bad, Poor, unsatisfactory
Grades are based on Point Production, Usage, Value In Relation To The Cap, Overall Expectations, and How I Feel
Minimum Requirements:
10+ Games Played
End the season on the Canucks
Player grades are dropping one by one! We’ll be revealing them individually each day, so make sure to check back daily to see who’s up next and how they measured up this season. Don’t miss a single breakdown!
In order of Games Played
Arturs Silovs: C-
GP 10 GAA 3.65 SAV .861
Arturs Silovs earned a spot in the Canucks opening night lineup after turning heads with his impressive performance during the team's 2024 playoff run. Unfortunately, his debut set the tone for a difficult season. Silovs started just nine games for Vancouver, posting a 2-6-1 record with a troubling .861 save percentage. He allowed four or more goals in over half of those starts en route to a goals against average of 3.65… a rough stretch by any standard.
However, his time in the AHL told a different story. In 21 games with the Abbotsford Canucks, Silovs went 14-5-1 with a 2.41 goals-against average and a solid .908 save percentage. While not elite numbers, they were certainly a marked improvement and showcased his potential.
Playing just 31 games across both leagues isn’t ideal for a young goalie’s development, but it’s a tough reality when you’re slotted behind a frequently injured Thatcher Demko on the depth chart. Silovs is under contract for one more season at $850,000 and will be a restricted free agent in 2026, when he turns 25.
Arshdeep Bains: C-
GP 13 G 1 A 0 TP 1 +/- (-5)
Surrey’s own Arshdeep Bains scored his first NHL goal and game-winning goal at home against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 26, 2024! Unfortunately, there wasn’t much else to celebrate in his 13-game stint with the Canucks this season. He averaged a meagre 10:30 of ice-time per night and somehow ended up a minus 5…
Bains has established himself as a reliable contributor at the AHL level, tallying an impressive 43 points (11 goals, 32 assists) in 50 games, and at only 24 years old, there's still some runway for growth. However, his transition to the NHL has been rocky, with just one goal and a minus-10 rating through 21 games, he’s yet to find his footing at the top level.
Has Bains plateaued as a fringe AHL/NHL tweener, or is there untapped potential in his game? Slated to be an RFA at the end of the season, the Canucks will need to make a decision soon.
Filip Chytil: C
GP 15 G 2 A 4 TP 6 +/- (-11)
Filip Chytil was one of the key pieces acquired in the J.T. Miller trade on January 31st, 2025. The 25-year-old center was originally drafted 21st overall by the Rangers in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. Over his 8 seasons in New York, Chytil appeared in 378 games, tallying 164 points (75 goals, 89 assists) while averaging just over 14 minutes of ice time per game.
Chytil brings blazing speed and slick hands, making him a legitimate offensive threat when given the space. However, his defensive play had been inconsistent, and there were concerns about his durability. He has a significant concussion history, having suffered four during his time with the Rangers, making his acquisition extremely risky.
Disaster struck on March 15th, 2025. Former Canuck Jason Dickinson, late in the third period hit Chytil from behind forcing him out of the game, and the REMAINDER OF THE SEASON. Chytil was diagnosed with yet another concussion... worst case scenario... only 15 games in
The good news is that Chytil did participate in a full contract practice by the end of the season and will reportedly be at 100% at the start of next season, stating:
"It's been nice [the last] couple of days to practice with the guys, and I really enjoyed it. It's great to head to the off-season 100% ready and have a big sumer now and be for September"
Chytil has 2 more years at 4.437M AAV and should center the third line next season!
Victor Mancini: C+
GP 16 G 1 A 2 TP 3 +/- (-6)
Mancini was another key piece acquired in the J.T. Miller trade. The 22-year-old right-handed defensemen was drafted in the 5th round (159th overall) by the Rangers during the 2022 NHL entry draft. At the time of the trade, Mancini split time between the Rangers and their farm team, playing 15 games for the Rangers, scoring 5 points (1 goal, 4 assists), and playing another 23 games for the Hartford Wolfpack, scoring 10 points (3 goals, 7 assists).
Mancini also split time between Vancouver and Abbotsford playing in 16 games for the Vancouver Canucks recording 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists), and suiting up for 7 games for Abbotsford recording 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists). Mancini had both good and bad moments in his short stint for the Vancouver Canucks showing off his strength in the defensive zone and his strong skating ability in transition and in the offensive zone but also took careless penalties and was out of position on more than several occasions leading to goals against.
Standing at 6’3” with impressive skating ability, Mancini is certainly an intriguing young piece on the Canucks' blue line. He’s signed through next season at $870K and will become a restricted free agent at season’s end. If the 2025–26 season started today, Mancini would likely slot in as the third-pair, right-handed defenseman; however, with the potential arrival of Tom Willander and expected depth additions in free agency, that spot is far from locked in.
Nils Aman: C
GP 19 G 1 A 5 TP 6 +/- (-2)
Nils Aman was one of 40 skaters to suit up for the Canucks this season, appearing in 19 games. Averaging 10:29 of ice time per night, his offensive output was respectable for a fourth liner, posting 6 points in those 19 games, which projects to 26 points over a full 82-game season.
The downside? Aman doesn't kill penalties and has struggled mightily in the faceoff circle, winning just 37.2% of his draws. At this point, he doesn’t look like a reliable option at center in the NHL. However, his speed and ability to play the wing keep him in the conversation as a viable depth piece.
Aman has been a strong contributor in the AHL, recording 30 points (7 goals, 23 assists) in 36 games. The 25-year-old is under contract through next season at a cap hit of $825k and will be a restricted free agent at season’s end.
Expect him to continue serving as a solid NHL/AHL tweener going into next year. There is a reason why he only played 19 games…
Phillip Di Giuseppe: C
GP 20 G 1 A 5 TP 6 +/- (-2)
Di Giuseppe played 20 games this year??? Apparently, he did! Averaging 11:34 of ice time per night, he recorded 6 points and earned 47 seconds of shorthanded ice time per game as part of the penalty kill unit. Di Giuseppe may not move the needle, but he doesn't hurt the team either. He's a reliable, responsible player who knows his role and rarely makes costly mistakes. He also played in 22 games with the Abbotsford Canucks, putting up 9 points (4 goals, 5 assists).
Di Giuseppe is 31 years old and will be an unrestricted free agent. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Canucks let him walk in search of younger options.
Remember, folks, it’s not delivery, it’s Di Giuseppe
Di Giuseppe's stats with the Canucks:
GP: 101
G: 12
A: 16
TP: 28
+/- (-4)
Thatcher Demko: C
GP 23 GAA 2.90 SAV .889
Coming off an injury Thatcher Demko didn’t start a game until December 10th, 2024, where the main headline this season was injuries once again. He started 23 games but only finished 21 of them, getting injured during play on two separate occasions (Jan 1, 2025 @ SEA and February 2, 2025 vs TOR).
Demko’s performance on the ice was a mixed bag this season. He posted a sub .900 save percentage in 10 of his starts, but also flashed brilliance, looking like vintage Demko on several occasions. His standout moment came against Colorado, where he delivered a shutout performance and earned a standing ovation from the Rogers Arena crowd. We all know the talent is there, but it was clear that Demko was trying to adjust to his physical limitations.
The good news is that Demko will have a full offseason to recover and return to full health. Don’t be surprised if he comes back with a vengeance. With just one year remaining on his contract, he’ll have all the motivation he needs to prove he’s still among the league’s elite goaltenders. The Canucks are in a bit of a tough spot, Demko’s said he wants to stick around long-term, but with his injury history, it’s understandable if the team’s a little hesitant to hand out big money on a long-term deal. The reality is that the best ability is availability, and Demko simply cannot stay healthy.
Linus Karlsson: B-
GP 23 G 3 A 3 TP 6 +/- (+5)
Linus Karlsson had a great year. He lit it up in Abbotsford, putting up 39 points (23 goals, 16 assists) in just 32 games. His 1.22 points-per-game ranked 5th in the entire AHL (min. 10 games), and he was named Abbotsford’s MVP after becoming the franchise’s all-time leading goal scorer (70).
Karlsson suited up for 23 games with Vancouver this season, picking up 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists). While the overall numbers were modest, he found his stride down the stretch, racking up 5 points in his last 10 games. He also finished as a +5, which stands out on a team where pluses were hard to come by.
The Canucks clearly like what they see, he is progressing nicely, and he is Swedish… they signed him to a 1-year contract extension worth 775k, expiring at the end of the 2025-2026 when he will be 26 years old.
Expect him to compete for a roster spot out of training camp, solid depth!
Jonathan Lekkerimaki: C+
GP 24 G 3 A 3 TP 6 +/- (-6)
Jonathan Lekkerimaki’s first full pro season in North America came with its ups and downs. The 20-year-old who was selected 15th overall in 2022 split the year between Abbotsford and Vancouver, playing 60 games total, 36 in the AHL and 24 in the NHL. He made a strong impression early in Abbotsford, scoring 4 goals and 2 assists in his first 7 AHL games and finishing with 28 points (19 goals, 9 assists) in 36 games. His NHL-level shot stood out right away, and he made his NHL debut on November 12th, 2024, against the Calgary Flames. He scored his first NHL goal a game later against the New York Islanders on November 14th.
Unfortunately, Lekkerimäki had a tough time adjusting to the pace and physicality of the NHL. He put up just 6 points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 24 games, despite getting nearly two minutes (1:54) of power-play time per night. Expectations were high after his strong start in Abbotsford, but it quickly became clear that he was getting outmuscled at the NHL level. Too often he was bumped off pucks, lost board battles, and had trouble holding his ground in front of the net. His skill is obvious, and he showed flashes, but adding 10–15 pounds of muscle should be a major focus for him this offseason. He’ll only be 21 years old when next season rolls around, but with the way things are shaping up, the Canucks might need him to step into a top six role sooner than anyone expected...
Elias Pettersson: A-
GP 28 G 1 A 2 TP 3 +/- (-4)
Another player from the 2022 NHL Entry Draft made his debut for the Canucks this season, and Elias Pettersson is already looking like a major steal. Selected 80th overall (3rd round), Pettersson has shown immense promise. Much like his draft-mate, Jonathan Lekkerimaki, Pettersson began the season in the AHL at just 20 years old. In 38 games for the Abbotsford Canucks, he tallied 1 goal and 12 assists for 13 points. While his offensive numbers aren't eye-popping, his physicality, defensive prowess, and strong skating were enough to earn him an NHL call-up. Pettersson made his NHL debut on January 25th, 2025, against the Washington Capitals and recorded his first NHL point (assist) against Detroit on February 2nd, 2025.
Pettersson’s play did all the talking. Once he earned his call-up, he never looked back, finishing the season in the NHL without being sent down. In 28 games, he recorded 1 goal and 2 assists, but his true impact came through his physical presence. As a rookie he didn’t just hold his own, he imposed himself, showing a level of toughness and maturity rarely seen in players that young. He averaged just 13 minutes of ice time per game, but I imagine his role will expand next season and beyond.
He is found gold at 918k for the next two seasons… D-Petey is best Petey?
Max Sasson: B
GP 29 G 3 A 4 TP 7 +/- (+1)
Max Sasson was signed to a two-year, entry-level contract on March 26th, 2023, having played college hockey for the Western Michigan University Broncos. We are now in the last season of his contract, and it is clear that Sasson is further along in his development then many would have predicted.
Heading into the season, even a single NHL appearance would’ve marked a win for Sasson, but he ended up playing nearly 30 games. His offensive numbers weren’t eye-catching, with 3 goals and 4 assists for 7 points in 29 games (a 20-point pace over a full season), but his speed stood out. He’s a burner in open ice, and he used that quickness to maintain puck possession and create space for teammates. Averaging just 10:20 of ice time per game, Sasson also took regular faceoffs but finished with a modest 42.7% success rate. If that doesn’t improve, a move to the wing seems likely. Still, for a player not expected to see NHL action this soon, it was a promising step forward.
Sasson had a solid year in Abbotsford, putting up 13 goals and 19 assists for 32 points in 41 games (0.78 points per game), a slight uptick from his 0.75 pace in 2024. As a pending RFA, he’s a safe bet to be re-signed, having shown steady development over the past two seasons. Expect him to push for a roster spot out of training camp, as the Canucks would love to see him become a full-time NHL contributor.
Drew O'Connor: C
GP 31 G 4 A 5 TP 9 +/- (-2)
Drew O’Connor was acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins on January 31st, along with Marcus Pettersson, in exchange for Danton Heinen, Vincent Desharnais (lol), Melvin Fernstrom, and the first-round pick from the J.T. Miller trade via the New York Rangers. While Pettersson was clearly the centerpiece of the deal, O’Connor, standing 6’4” and just 26 years old, brought some intrigue of his own, especially at a cap-friendly $925K AAV contract, becoming a free agent at season's end.
Coming over from Pittsburgh he played 53 games with the Penguins, scoring 16 points (6 goals, 10 assists) with a dreadful minus-14. Just four games into his Canucks stint, the team committed to him with a 2-year, $5 million extension ($2.5M AAV) on February 18, 2025. He went on to play 31 games in Vancouver, tallying 9 points (4 goals, 5 assists) while averaging 14:12 of ice time per night, not exactly the impact you'd expect after a sizable raise. O’Connor is big and fast, but he was invisible on too many nights. Scoring at a 24-point pace is not good enough, but it’s forgivable considering the $925K AAV.
Next season could be a real opportunity for O’Connor, with the Canucks’ lack of forward depth likely slotting him into a third-line role, and possibly higher if he finds his game. With a $2.5M AAV kicking in, the expectations will definitely be higher heading into 2025–26.
Marcus Pettersson: B+
GP 31 G 1 A 10 TP 11 +/- (+8)
The centerpiece of the J.T. Miller trade, Marcus Pettersson is a 29-year-old, 6’5” left-handed defenseman with over 500 NHL games played under his belt. Coming over from Pittsburgh, Pettersson appeared in 47 games, tallying 18 points (3 goals, 15 assists) with a minus-2 rating. The Canucks clearly had a plan in place, signing him to a six-year, $33 million contract extension ($5.5 million AAV) after just two games with the team.
In 31 games with the Canucks, Pettersson averaged 21:09 of ice time, contributing 11 points (1 goal, 10 assists) and posting a solid plus-8 rating. He quickly established himself as a key part of the penalty kill, logging 2:23 per game shorthanded. His length and positioning allowed him to shut down plays off the rush and steer attackers away from dangerous areas. Beyond his defensive strengths, Pettersson is an underrated passer, capable of clean zone exits and flashing some sneaky vision in the offensive zone to create high-danger chances. His mobility is also impressive, offering smooth skating that adds an extra layer of reliability to his all-around game.
The six-year extension carries Pettersson through his age-35 season, and with a $5.5 million AAV, it could prove to be a steal, especially as the salary cap continues to rise. He’s expected to anchor the second defensive pairing next season, logging over 20 minutes per game, playing a key role on the penalty kill, and contributing to what is shaping up to be one of the strongest blue lines in the league.
Aatu Raty: B
GP 33 G 7 A 14 TP 11 +/- (-1)
Aatu Raty took a significant step forward this season, earning a spot on the Canucks’ opening night roster as a 21-year-old. He set career highs across the board, appearing in 33 games tallying 7 goals and 4 assists for 11 points. He was also excellent in the faceoff circle, winning 57.7% of his draws! Raty’s play trended upward as the season progressed, posting 6 points over his final 10 games while averaging nearly 13 minutes of ice time per night. It was an encouraging sign of his growing comfort and potential at the NHL level.
Räty also had a strong season in Abbotsford, recording 17 goals and 23 assists for 40 points in 43 games (0.93 points per game). It’s clear he’s on the cusp of becoming a full-time NHL player. With a bottom-six center spot up for grabs next season, the opportunity is there, and it would be great to see him take it and run.
It’s worth noting that Räty will be a pending RFA once Abbotsford’s season wraps up. The Canucks will have an interesting decision to make. Do they make a long-term bet with a higher AAV, or opt for a short-term 'prove-it' deal to see how he continues to develop?
Noah Juulsen: D-
GP 35 G 0 A 0 TP 0 +/- (-12)
Ah yes, one of this season's many punching bags, Noah Juulsen. He was held off the scoresheet in all 35 of his games while also being a minus 12… that’s always going to draw attention for the wrong reasons
Juulsen played just over 16 minutes a night, primarily being featured on the third pair. He was a regular on the penalty kill, logging an average of 2:20 per night. His season was cut short, playing his last game of the season on February 2nd, an overtime loss to Detroit and underwent a lower-body procedure ending his season.
Juulsen is set to become an unrestricted free agent. Given his injury history, inconsistent play, and the Canucks' increased depth on defense, he is almost certain to hit the open market on July 1.
Juulsen with the Canucks:
GP: 109 G: 1 A: 8 TP: 9 +/- (-16)
Kevin Lankinen: A
GP 51 GAA 2.62 SAV .902
Kevin Lankinen signed a one-year, $875K contract with the Canucks on September 21st, 2024… just three days before their first preseason game. At the time, he was viewed as the team’s third-string goalie, expected to back up Arturs Silovs while Thatcher Demko recovered from injury.
When Silovs stumbled out of the gate, Lankinen seized the opportunity and never looked back. He posted an impressive 13-4-3 record through his first 20 games and made history by setting both NHL and Canucks records for the longest road win streak to start a season, going a perfect 10-0. He finished the year with career highs in starts (49), wins (25), and goals-against average (2.62), cementing himself as the team's unquestioned starter. On February 21st, 2025, the Canucks rewarded Lankinen with a significant five-year, $22.6 million contract extension ($4.5M AAV), locking him in through his age-35 season.
It’s a sizable gamble, given that Lankinen has largely been a career backup, and his final 25 games of the season were underwhelming, posting a .895 save percentage and just 10 wins, a clear drop-off from his early-season form. That said, he provided tremendous value on his $875K contract and, with Demko healthy, the Canucks are poised to have one of the league’s strongest goaltending tandems next season.
Derek Forbort: C
GP 54 G 2 A 9 TP 11 +/- (-7)
Derek Forbort was signed on the opening day of free agency to a one-year, $1.5 million deal. He spent the previous three seasons with the Boston Bruins (2022–2024), appearing in 165 games and recording 9 goals and 21 assists for 30 points. Averaging nearly 18 minutes per game (17:55) and finishing with a +22 rating, Forbort brought steady defensive play and a veteran presence to Boston’s blue line. The Canucks hoped he would bring that same reliability to Vancouver.
Forbort’s tenure with the Canucks got off to a rocky start, as he appeared in just 5 of the team’s first 31 games due to a combination of personal matters and injury. Once he found his way into the lineup, he settled in as a steady presence on the back end. He played 54 games, recording 2 goals and 9 assists for 11 points, while averaging 17:06 of ice time. One clear bright spot was Forbort’s steady presence on one of the league’s top penalty kills; he averaged 2:14 of shorthanded ice time per game and brought consistent defensive reliability. His season came to a devastating end on April 12th after suffering a season-ending injury, the result of one of the dirtiest plays I’ve ever witnessed: getting punched in the face while already down on the ice.
Yakor Trenin is a marked man
The Canucks already have a crowded blue line heading into next season, but there's likely still interest in extending Forbort. With the salary cap rising, he may command a modest raise, but his experience and steady play make him a valuable piece worth retaining for depth and internal competition.
Dakota Joshua: C
GP 57 G 7 A 7 TP 14 +/- (-13)
Dakota Joshua enjoyed a breakout season in 2023–24, posting 18 goals and 14 assists in 63 games while registering a +19 rating. His strong two-way play and physical presence earned him a four-year, $13 million contract extension ($3.25M AAV) from the Canucks on June 27, 2024. However, just months later, Joshua faced a major health setback when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. He underwent successful surgery to remove a cancerous tumour in early September and made a triumphant return to the lineup on November 14, 2024.
Joshua was behind the eight ball from the very start of the season, and unfortunately, he never fully regained the form that made him so effective the year prior. Limited to 57 games, he managed just 7 goals and 7 assists for 14 points, a noticeable drop-off from his breakout campaign. At a $3.25M AAV, the Canucks were certainly hoping for more offensive impact. Still, considering what he overcame off the ice, Joshua’s determination to return and compete at the NHL level speaks volumes about his character and work ethic. I think with a full offseason of training and recovery, he can bounce back and reclaim his hard-nosed, productive form next season.
Filip Hronek: B+
GP 61 G 5 A 28 TP 33 +/- (0)
Filip Hronek’s 2023–2024 season was a resounding success. Skating alongside Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes, he appeared in 81 games, tallying 5 goals and 43 assists for 48 points, along with an impressive +33 rating. This monster year earned him a major payday, as he signed an 8-year, $58 million extension ($7.25M AAV) on June 18, 2024, locking him in as a key piece of the Canucks' defensive core.
Hronek delivered another strong campaign, tallying 5 goals and 28 assists for 33 points in 61 games. He averaged 23:53 of ice time per night and was a key contributor in all situations, logging 1:46 on the power play and 2:18 on the penalty kill. His value to the team became even more evident after he suffered an injury on November 27, 2024, against the Penguins. During his 21-game absence, the Canucks struggled to find consistency and struggled to break the puck out, going 8-6-7 without him in the lineup.
Make no mistake, Hronek is clearly the second-best defenseman in the organization, and it might be wise for the Canucks to consider splitting him from Hughes next season, giving Hronek the opportunity to anchor his own pairing and elevate the overall balance of the blue line. If he maintains this level of play at a $7.25 million AAV, his contract will prove to be a great value over time; however, that “if” remains somewhat uncertain, as his injury history continues to be a concern.
Elias Pettersson: C
GP 64 G 15 A 30 TP 45 +/- (-10)
Much has been said about Elias Pettersson’s game, and rightfully so. Entering the season as the fifth-highest paid player in the NHL, expectations were sky-high, and the pressure was mounting, both internally and from the fan base, especially after a disappointing post-All-Star stretch last season and a lackluster 2024 playoff performance. Whether it was the pressure, injuries, or off-ice drama, this season marked a career low for Pettersson, who has been in a steady decline for the past 18 months. Just two years removed from a stellar 39-goal, 102-point campaign, he managed only 15 goals and 45 points in 64 games during a turbulent 2024–25 season.
The dismal stats only tell part of Elias Pettersson’s story. A lackluster training camp set the tone, followed by a sluggish start and a personality clash with J.T. Miller that became league-wide news. The tension ultimately led to the Miller trade that shifted the organization’s trajectory and added even more pressure. For Pettersson, it was a season defined by constant turmoil, off-ice distractions, and poor play on the ice.
The highest-paid player on the team finished just seventh in goals and sixth in total scoring. Pettersson opened the scoring only once all season, recorded a single game-winner (down from 10 the year before), had just one multi-goal game, and managed a mere three goals on the road. Adding to the concern, NHL Edge data showed a significant decline in both his shot velocity and skating speed. These are staggering stats for a player who, not long ago, routinely took over games.
Pettersson’s off-season began early on March 22, after an oblique injury in New York sidelined him for the final 12 games of the season. Though he’s since been declared healthy, the message from the organization was clear: a repeat of last summer’s subpar preparation won’t be tolerated. Come September, Pettersson will have a clean slate. His chief locker-room adversary is gone, there’s a new head coach behind the bench, and the Canucks need to see a focused, driven, and fully committed player when training camp opens.
Quinn Hughes: A+
GP 68 G 16 A 60 TP 76 +/- (+2)
Fresh off winning the Norris Trophy, Quinn Hughes somehow found a way to raise his game even further, no surprise there. The Canucks' captain led the team in both points (76) and average time on ice (25:44) in just 68 games. After setting a franchise record with 92 points last season, Hughes was on an even more remarkable pace before injuries cut his campaign short and hurt his overall production. Through his first 47 games, he registered 14 goals and 45 assists, an incredible 59 points, which translates to a 103-point pace over a full season. His early-season dominance was nothing short of unworldly.
Quinn Hughes missed the final four games leading into the 4 Nations tournament due to injury and made the difficult decision to opt out… unlike his Swedish counterpart. Following the early-season injuries, Hughes simply wasn’t the same. He recorded just 17 points over his final 21 games and posted a concerning -13 rating during that stretch. Still, despite the late-season drop-off and playing only 68 games, Hughes ranked second among NHL defensemen in points per game (1.118), third in total points (76), and earned yet another Norris Trophy nomination.
Next season could be a pivotal one for both Quinn Hughes and the franchise. The Canucks hired Adam Foote as head coach in part due to Hughes’ strong endorsement, and the star blueliner will be eligible to sign a contract extension next offseason. The scary thing? He’s still getting better. Don’t be surprised if Hughes takes yet another leap, mind-boggling as that sounds, and firmly cements his place as the greatest Canuck of all time, if he hasn’t already.
This season was an easy A+. At his peak, Hughes displayed a level of dominance this city hasn’t witnessed since Pavel Bure. An elite offensive weapon from the back end, he is a rare, franchise-altering presence, and the Canucks will be doing everything possible to ensure he remains the face of the organization for years to come.
Tyler Myers: B
GP 71 G 6 A 18 TP 24 +/- (+2)
Tyler Myers re-signed with the Canucks just four days before hitting the open market, agreeing to a three-year, $9 million deal ($3M AAV) on June 27, 2024. While far more team-friendly than his previous five-year, $30 million contract ($6M AAV), committing three years to a 34-year-old defenseman carried risk. In the first year of his new contract, Tyler Myers suited up for 71 games, tallying 6 goals and 18 assists for 24 points. He held down a regular spot on the second pairing, averaging a solid 20:48 of ice time per night. It was a solid season for Myers, who thrived within Tocchet’s structured defensive system. He played a key role on the penalty kill, logging over two minutes per game (2:13), and even saw time on the second power-play unit, averaging 34 seconds a night.
Myers’ season ended prematurely due to a neck injury that kept him out of the team’s final seven games. He also missed a mid-March contest with a separate injury and served a three-game suspension for cross-checking Edmonton’s Evan Bouchard in the face during a heated January matchup, a game that also saw Connor McDavid handed a three-game ban for a high cross-check on Conor Garland (Myers for McDavid, what a W)
It was a classic Tyler Myers season: steady, dependable, and at times underappreciated. He rose to the occasion when Hughes and Hronek were sidelined, logging big minutes and holding down the fort. A major personal milestone came on October 19th, 2024, when he played his 1,000th NHL game against the Flyers, a night he won’t forget.
Myers will face competition for his second-pairing spot on the right side next season, with both Mancini and Willander expected to push hard for NHL minutes.
Nils Hoglander: C+
GP 72 G 8 A 17 TP 25 +/- (+5)
Nils Hoglander entered the season following a career year in 2023–24, where he scored 24 goals, all at even strength, and added 12 assists for 36 points over 80 games. His breakout performance earned him a three-year, $9 million contract extension, signed on October 6th, just three nights before the season opener. The deal, which carries a $3 million AAV, doesn’t kick in until the 2025–26 season. Last season, Hoglander continued to play on a team-friendly $1.1 million salary.
Like many Canucks, his production dipped this season, falling from 0.45 points per game to 0.35. He finished the year with 8 goals and 17 assists for 25 points in 72 games. While the offensive numbers declined, Hoglander’s overall impact was still noticeable. Hoglander's final numbers don’t fully reflect the quality of his play, a natural consequence of enduring a 21-game pointless drought between November 7, 2024, and January 18, 2025. Once he broke out of that slump, he quietly found his game, registering 19 points over his final 40 contests, including an encouraging 13 points in his last 19 games.
Despite playing just 12:08 per night last season, Hoglander will be expected to push for a larger role next year, especially now entering the first season of his new $3 million AAV contract. Still only 24 years old, there's plenty of runway for his game to grow, and while the season had its struggles, it wasn’t all bad; he quietly set a new career high in assists, offering a glimpse of his continued development.
Brock Boeser: C+
GP 75 G 25 A 25 TP 50 +/- (-25)
Brock Boeser entered the season coming off a career-best 2023–24 campaign, where he scored 40 goals and added 33 assists for 73 points in 81 games. In the final year of his contract, Boeser was essentially playing for a significant raise, but unfortunately, he couldn’t replicate his breakout year. He finished the season with a modest 25 goals and 25 assists for 50 points in 75 games, a significant drop in production during a pivotal contract year. To make matters worse, he posted a team-worst -25 rating, raising further concerns about his overall impact.
Boeser wasn’t moved at the trade deadline, a decision that sparked significant backlash throughout the Canucks fanbase. Many believed it was the right time to part ways with the winger, especially in a contract year. General Manager Patrik Allvin later revealed that the offers for Boeser were underwhelming, but the public admission only further strained the already delicate relationship between the player and the organization.
If the Canucks lose Boeser for nothing in free agency, it would be a major failure by management, emblematic of the organizational missteps that have prevented this team from becoming a true perennial contender. I, for one, want to see Boeser back, but only at the right price. Since making his debut in 2017, he’s been a steady and reliable scorer for the Canucks, tallying 434 points (204 goals, 230 assists) in 554 games. That kind of production doesn’t grow on trees. Only time will tell, but all signs point to Boeser wearing a different jersey next season.
Canucks All-Time Records:
8th all-time in goals (204)
12th all-time in Points (434)
18th all-time in Assists (230)
22nd all-time in Games Played (554)
Kiefer Sherwood: A+
GP 78 G 19 A 21 TP 40 +/- (-1)
Kiefer Sherwood signed with the Canucks on the opening day of free agency, inking a two-year deal worth $3 million ($1.5M AAV). Prior to joining Vancouver, he spent the two prior seasons in Nashville, tallying 40 points (17 goals, 23 assists) across 100 games. Canucks fans became all too familiar with Sherwood during their 2024 first-round playoff series, where he made his presence felt every shift, relentlessly finishing checks and getting under the Canucks' skin across six intense games.
Sherwood’s first season in Vancouver didn’t just exceed expectations, it shattered them. He set career highs across the board with 78 games played, 19 goals, 21 assists, and 40 points. Most impressively, he rewrote the record books by recording a jaw-dropping 462 hits, setting a new NHL single-season record and cementing his status as one of the league’s most punishing forecheckers. Signed for just $1.5 million AAV through 2025–26, Sherwood's deal is quickly becoming one of the best value contracts in the entire NHL.
With Adam Foote now behind the bench, the Canucks would be wise to lock up Sherwood beyond 2025–26. He brings the kind of grit, edge, and relentless motor that Foote will value, and his underrated offensive instincts make him more than just a physical presence. Sherwood will undoubtedly command a raise, but at 30 years old, he still has plenty of good hockey left and fits the Canucks’ identity perfectly. He can play up and down the lineup, and he contributes on both special teams’ units, making him an incredibly versatile piece.
SIGN HIM NOW!!
Pius Suter: A+
GP 81 G 25 A 21 TP 46 +/- (+2)
Pius Suter was signed on August 11, 2023, to a two-year deal worth $3.2 million ($1.6M AAV). In his first season with the Canucks, he posted a respectable 29 points (14 goals, 15 assists) in 67 games, a rate of 0.43 points per game. Suter delivered exactly what the Canucks hoped for: steady, reliable two-way play. He showcased his versatility throughout the year, shifting seamlessly between center and wing, while contributing on both the power play and penalty kill.
With Elias Pettersson struggling with injury and J.T. Miller eventually departing, Suter was thrust into a much larger role this season, and he delivered. Averaging 17:20 of ice time per game, he logged 2:17 on the penalty kill and 1:20 on the power play. The expanded opportunity paid off, as Suter hit career highs in both goals (25) and points (46) across 81 games, while continuing to bring the responsible two-way game he’s known for. He provided excellent value for his contract, and with this being a contract year, Suter may be looking to cash in big.
The Canucks can’t afford to lose Suter, especially with the team already lacking forward depth heading into next season. However, given his breakout campaign and all-situations utility, there’s a real possibility he may have priced himself out of Vancouver. If this is the last of Pus Suter in Vancouver here are his all-time Canucks Stats:
GP: 148 G: 39 A: 36 TP: 75 +/- (+19)
Conor Garland: B
GP 81 G 19 A 31 TP 50 +/- (-13)
Conor Garland put together another classic Garland season, quietly effective, consistent, and reliable. He was one of the Canucks’ most steady forwards throughout the year, finishing tied for first among forwards in points with 50 (19 goals, 31 assists) across 81 games. Beyond the numbers, Garland continued to play his trademark agitating style, always in the mix, always a pest, and constantly dragging the team into the fight with his relentless motor and scrappy edge.
Garland set a career high in average time on ice this season at 18:39, a clear sign of the trust head coach Rick Tocchet placed in him. The two have a long-standing history dating back to their time in Arizona, and that familiarity showed. Tocchet leaned on Garland in all situations; he played on both special teams units and was trusted to start in the defensive zone and be on the ice late in games to help protect leads.
Garland is heading into the final season of his contract, and while the Canucks would certainly love to extend him, at the right price, the situation remains uncertain. Garland holds the cards here, and there’s growing speculation that he may not be interested in signing a long-term deal in Vancouver. That presents a challenge for the Canucks, who are already desperate for forward depth. If the two sides can’t reach an agreement, Vancouver may be forced to explore trade options rather than risk losing him for nothing…
Teddy Blueger: C+
GP 82 G 8 A 18 TP 26 +/- (-7)
Teddy Blueger originally signed with the Canucks on July 1st, 2023, agreeing to a one-year deal worth $1.9 million. He had a strong first season in Vancouver, posting 28 points (8 goals, 18 assists) in 68 games and forming an effective and consistent line with Conor Garland and Dakota Joshua. Recognizing his value, the Canucks moved quickly to keep him in the fold, re-signing him to a two-year, $3.6 million extension (AAV $1.8 million) just four days before free agency opened.
Blueger had a bit of a down year offensively, finishing with 26 points (8 goals, 18 assists) in 82 games. Despite the dip in production, he remained a reliable two-way presence, averaging 14:19 of ice time per night and logging over two minutes per game on the penalty kill. He also continued to be dependable in the faceoff circle, winning over 50% of his draws (50.2%).
Blueger had a solid season overall. As a bottom-six center, he filled his role effectively, providing reliable two-way play. That said, it wasn’t anything spectacular. With added depth in the organization, it’ll be interesting to see if someone pushes Blueger for minutes, or even his spot, next season.
Jake DeBrusk: B
GP 82 G 28 A 20 TP 48 +/- (-15)
Jake DeBrusk was the Canucks’ big splash on the opening day of free agency, signing a 7-year, $38.5 million contract ($5.5M AAV). Originally drafted 14th overall by the Boston Bruins in 2015, DeBrusk spent seven seasons in Boston, where he appeared in 465 games and recorded 266 points (138 goals, 128 assists).
DeBrusk got off to a slow start in his inaugural season with the Canucks, managing just 4 assists in his first 9 games. However, he quickly found his stride, scoring 15 goals over his next 25 games. He finished the season with a team-leading and career-high 28 goals, along with 20 assists for 48 points in 82 games. He was a regular fixture on the power play, averaging 2:32 of ice time per night and leading the team with 14 power-play goals. Offensively, DeBrusk delivered on expectations, but his play without the puck left room for improvement, finishing the season with a (-15) rating, the second worst on the team.
Heading into the 2025–26 season, DeBrusk stands as one of the few proven top-six wingers on the roster. With that comes heightened expectations; he’ll be counted on to match, if not exceed, his offensive output from last year. At $5.5 million per season and with the salary cap rising, DeBrusk’s contract has the potential to provide solid value for the Canucks if he continues to put the puck in the back of the net. Overall, this was the kind of season you expect from DeBrusk. The goal scoring was a definite plus, but there’s still room for improvement in other areas of his game, particularly his defensive game and his playmaking.
Comments