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 covers the latest updates on the Canucks' recent first-round picks, as well as emerging talent from later rounds.

First-Round Picks Making an Impact

Tom Willander and Braeden Cootes are impressing in their respective teams, Vancouver and Seattle. Although Willander did not make the Canucks' opening roster, his performance in his first five games shows promise for a rapid rise.

“Willander has showcased his elite skating and mobility and seems to already have the trust of Adam Foote and the coaching staff.”

Willander's ice time has varied, averaging 14:42 minutes per game, including a career-high 19:12 against the Nashville Predators. This trajectory is reminiscent of Troy Stecher, who quickly moved from the AHL to a stable NHL career after only four games with the Utica Comets due to injuries on the Canucks’ blue line.

Second-Round and Later Picks

Alexei Medvedev, the Canucks’ latest second-round pick, is making waves in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Additionally, late-round selections continue to develop in Brampton and Kingston, while Riley Patterson, a 2024 pick, is adapting well in Niagara.

Potential Trajectories and Team Strategy

Like Stecher, Willander could spend minimal time in the American Hockey League (AHL) before securing a spot in the NHL lineup if his rookie performances maintain their current level.