The Vancouver Canucks have done just that locked forward Linus Karlsson, who announced a two-year contract extension with an average annual value of $2.25 million. The deal keeps Karlsson under contract through the 2027-2028 season and suggests the two sides have reached an agreement where a short-term contract could help both figure out the future.
At 26, Karlsson played in 36 games with Vancouver in 2025-26, scoring nine goals and 16 points and setting career highs across the board. His physical play also stood out, as his 50 goals are among the team’s most attackers.
Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin praised Karlsson’s growth since joining the organization. He took a different path to get to the NHL, but he continues to carve his own path. Drafted 87th overall by the San Jose Sharks in 2018, he spent several years developing in Sweden before emerging as a legitimate prospect. He was named SHL Rookie of the Year at Skellefteå AIK after scoring 26 goals in 2021-2022 before making the move to North America where he became a dominant AHL producer. He impressed during Abbotsford’s Calder Cup championship – 14 goals and 26 points – and cemented his value within the organisation.
He has only gotten better since then, with this season being his best. Karlsson remains on pace for a 20-goal campaign, which if he achieves it could make this deal with the Canucks look solid, or increase his trade value if the two sides decide to part ways.
From Vancouver’s perspective, the expansion provides cost certainty and flexibility. If Karlsson’s offense continues to rise, the deal will have been a smart move.
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