VANCOUVER CANUCKS SIGN BRAEDEN COOTES TO THREE-YEAR ENTRY-LEVEL DEAL
Vancouver Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin officially announced today that the club has reached an agreement with promising forward Braeden Cootes on a three-year, entry-level contract. This move further solidifies the team’s investment in its future, adding another talented prospect to its growing pipeline. Cootes, known for his high hockey IQ and relentless two-way play, is widely regarded as one of the more underrated but high-upside forwards of his draft class.
Braeden Cootes, 18, impressed scouts and analysts alike with his play over the past season, showcasing a rare combination of physicality, speed, and vision. Standing at 6’1” and weighing 190 pounds, the forward brings a blend of size and skill that fits well into the Canucks’ developmental system. Cootes spent the past season with the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he recorded 68 points (28 goals, 40 assists) in 62 games.
Allvin spoke highly of Cootes during the announcement, stating, “Braeden is a competitor with strong character and tremendous work ethic. His development over the past year has been very encouraging, and we are confident that with continued growth, he can become an important piece of our roster in the future.” The Canucks’ front office has prioritized building through youth and development, and Cootes represents yet another carefully scouted addition to that strategy.
The entry-level contract is standard for players coming out of junior leagues, giving Cootes the opportunity to develop either with the Canucks or their AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks. It also provides him a platform to transition gradually into the NHL, should his performance and maturity continue on its current trajectory. His adaptability to play both center and wing adds value, offering the Canucks roster flexibility in the seasons to come.
Cootes, who was selected in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft, expressed his excitement about the opportunity. “It’s a dream come true to sign with Vancouver. I’m thankful to the Canucks organization for believing in me, and I can’t wait to get to work, keep improving, and make the most of this chance,” said the young forward. He is expected to participate in the team’s upcoming development camp, where fans and staff will get another close look at his evolving skill set.
With Cootes now officially signed, the Canucks continue to show commitment to their long-term vision. The combination of young talent like Braeden Cootes and an increasingly experienced NHL core has the franchise and its fans feeling optimistic about the future. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how quickly Cootes can adapt to the next level—and how soon he might make his NHL debut in a Canucks jersey.
