Canucks seek long-term extension for Horvat

On Thursday, the Vancouver Canucks signed defenseman Ben Hutton to a two-year extension. Next on the to-do list: a long-term deal for forward Bo Horvat, who can become a restricted free agent at season's end.

Canucks general manager Jim Benning is seeking a long-term extension for Horvat rather than the sort of shorter bridge deal accepted by Hutton, reports Dan Murphy of Sportsnet.

Vancouver's top pick in the 2013 draft, Horvat has emerged as a crucial pivot in the Canucks' lineup. In his third NHL season, Horvat is off to a career year, with 13 points in 20 games.