The Vancouver Canucks have been making headlines recently with a flurry of activity surrounding the NHL Entry Draft, potential free-agent departures, and new acquisitions. Here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team.
Draft Day Acquisitions: Cootes and More
The Canucks had a busy 2025 NHL Entry Draft, selecting six players in total. Their first-round pick, Braeden Cootes from the Seattle Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League (WHL), was selected 15th overall. Cootes, an 18-year-old center, recorded 63 points (26 goals, 37 assists) in 60 games this season and served as Seattle's co-captain. Allvin praised Cootes's character and leadership qualities, noting his competitiveness and playmaking abilities. Cootes has represented Canada on multiple occasions, including the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, winning gold at both. He also captained Canada at the 2025 U18 World Championships, again winning gold. Cootes mentioned he lived in Vancouver for a year when he was younger and is familiar with the city, so he is happy to be drafted by the Canucks.
In addition to Cootes, the Canucks selected Aleksei Medvedev (47th overall), Kieren Dervin (65th overall), Wilson Björck (143rd overall), Gabriel Chiarot (175th overall), and Matthew Lansing (207th overall). Medvedev, a goaltender, played for the London Knights of the OHL.
Boeser's Impending Free Agency
Brock Boeser's time with the Vancouver Canucks appears to be coming to an end as he is expected to test unrestricted free agency. The Canucks have reportedly made attempts to re-sign the right winger, but have been unsuccessful. Boeser is in the final year of a three-year contract with an average annual value of $6.65 million. In 75 games this season, Boeser tallied 25 goals and 25 assists. Over his career with the Canucks, Boeser has recorded 204 goals and 230 assists for 434 points in 554 games. With Boeser likely departing, the Canucks will need to find a way to replace his offensive production. Potential replacements could come from within the system, such as Jonathan Lekkerimaki, or via free agency or trade. The Edmonton Oilers may be a possible destination for Boeser if they can free up cap space.
Safonov Acquired from Blackhawks
The Canucks have acquired center Ilya Safonov from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for future considerations. Safonov, a 24-year-old Russian-born forward, has been playing in the KHL. In 51 games with Kazan Ak-Bars this season, he had 7 goals and 15 assists. Safonov was originally drafted by the Blackhawks in the sixth round of the 2021 NHL Draft. He has also represented Russia in international competitions. Safonov is described as a defensive-minded player with a good frame and hockey sense. He is expected to attend the Canucks' development camp.
Morin Invited to Development Camp
Zachary Morin, an undrafted winger committed to Boston University, has been invited to the Vancouver Canucks' Development Camp. Morin, who plays in the QMJHL for the Saint John Sea Dogs, was ranked 103rd among North American Skaters by NHL Central Scouting.
These are just some of the latest news and rumors surrounding the Vancouver Canucks as they navigate the offseason and prepare for the 2025-26 season.
