Canucks sign Podkolzin to 2-year deal

The Vancouver Canucks signed forward Vasily Podkolzin to a two-year contract extension Thursday.

The deal is worth $1 million per season, according to The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun.

Podkolzin, the 10th overall pick in 2019, made 18 appearances for the Canucks this season, managing two assists. He also recorded 28 points in 44 games for AHL Abbotsford.

"We are happy with how hard Vasily has worked on his game to try and become a more consistent player," general manager Patrik Allvin said. "While there is still room for him to grow, starting the year in Abbotsford and working his way back up to Vancouver shows the type of commitment and dedication we want in all our players."

Podkolzin has 35 points in 136 NHL games since making his debut in 2021. He played three KHL seasons with SKA St. Petersburg before making the move to North America.

The Canucks qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2020 this season after winning the Pacific Division.