Canucks Prospects Report: Willander, Cootes, Medvedev & More
Vancouver Canucks' top prospects Tom Willander and Braeden Cootes have made strong starts to the season. This report focuses on these two recent first-round picks, with Willander playing in Vancouver and Cootes in Seattle. Meanwhile, their second-round pick Alexei Medvedev is performing well in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Late-round picks are also making progress in Brampton and Kingston, alongside 2024 selection Riley Patterson, who has begun his season in Niagara.
Tom Willander’s Development
Willander didn’t make the Canucks' roster out of training camp but may already be nearing the end of his time in the American Hockey League (AHL), similar to Troy Stecher’s path. Stecher played just four games with the Utica Comets before being called up to the NHL due to injuries on the blue line, and has since remained at the top level. With a promising start, Willander’s future could follow a similar trajectory.
Performance Highlights
- Willander has demonstrated elite skating and strong mobility.
- He appears to have earned the trust of Adam Foote and the coaching staff.
- His average ice time is 14:42 per game, with a career-high 19:12 against the Nashville Predators.
"If Willander has more games like his first five, he could follow the same path as Troy Stecher."
Related coverage includes potential Canucks centre trade targets such as Stamkos, Zacha, and Kadri.
Author's summary: Vancouver Canucks prospects, led by Willander and Cootes, are making significant strides early in the season, showcasing skill and potential for rapid advancement.