Canucks Prospects Report: Willander, Cootes, Medvedev & More

This report highlights Vancouver Canucks' top prospects Tom Willander and Braeden Cootes, both off to strong starts this season. It also covers other promising prospects making impacts in various leagues.

First-Round Picks: Willander and Cootes

Tom Willander and Braeden Cootes, Vancouver’s two most recent first-round selections, are showing impressive performances with their respective teams in Vancouver and Seattle. Willander missed making the Canucks roster out of training camp, but his strong early showings hint at a promising future.

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

Willander’s average ice time is 14:42 minutes, with a notable career-high of 19:12 in one game. His situation draws parallels to Troy Stecher, who quickly moved from the AHL to a solid NHL role after just four games with the Utica Comets due to team injuries.

Other Prospects Making Waves

Second-round pick Alexei Medvedev is gaining attention in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
Late-round selections are contributing in Brampton and Kingston.
2024 pick Riley Patterson has started well in Niagara.

Developmental Progress and Expectations

Willander’s path may soon mirror Stecher’s rapid rise if he continues performing at this level. The coaching staff’s trust signals strong belief in his potential moving forward.

“If Willander has more games like his first five, he could follow the same path [as Stecher].”