Canucks sign 2023 11th overall pick Willander to 3-year ELC
The Vancouver Canucks signed defenseman Tom Willander to a three-year, entry-level contract, the team announced Wednesday.
Willander, drafted 11th overall by the Canucks in 2023, tallied two goals and 24 points in 39 games this season at Boston University. The right-handed rearguard was named a second-team All-Star in the Hockey East conference for the second straight year.
"We are excited to have Tom under contract and for him to start his professional hockey career," general manager Patrik Allvin said in a statement. "Our group has watched him closely the past couple of seasons and has been impressed with his progression and growth in the NCAA. Now is the perfect time for him to take the next step and join our organization."
The contract includes an average of $800,000 worth of Schedule A performance bonuses, reports CHEK's Rick Dhaliwal. The maximum is $1 million.
"We're happy it is done. Tom can realize his dream to play for the Canucks and work to make the roster," Willander's agent, Todd Diamond, told Dhaliwal.
Willander totaled six goals, 49 points, and a plus-47 rating in 77 career games with the Terriers over two campaigns.
The Swede won a silver medal at the 2024 world juniors and again represented his nation in January, notching five points in the seven-game tournament.