The Vancouver Canucks have made a major move to secure their defensive lineup for the future. The team announced on Tuesday that they have signed defenceman Filip Hronek to an eight-year contract extension.
Hronek, who was acquired by the Canucks in a trade with the Detroit Red Wings in April, has quickly established himself as a key player on the team. In just 10 games with the Canucks, the 23-year-old has recorded four goals and six assists, showcasing his strong offensive and defensive abilities.
The new contract is worth a reported $50 million, with an average annual value of $6.25 million. This makes Hronek one of the highest-paid defencemen on the Canucks roster, alongside Quinn Hughes and Tyler Myers.
Canucks general manager Jim Benning expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “Filip has been a great addition to our team and has shown tremendous potential in his short time with us. We believe he will continue to be a key contributor to our success for years to come.”
Hronek, a native of the Czech Republic, was originally drafted by the Red Wings in the second round of the 2016 NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 2018-2019 season and has since become a reliable and consistent player on the blue line.
The eight-year extension will keep Hronek in a Canucks uniform through the 2028-2029 season, solidifying his role as a core member of the team’s future. With his strong defensive skills and offensive prowess, Hronek is expected to play a crucial role in the Canucks’ pursuit of a Stanley Cup.
Fans of the Canucks have also expressed their excitement about the signing, with many taking to social media to congratulate Hronek and the team on securing such a talented player for the long term.
The Canucks are currently in the midst of a playoff push and the addition of Hronek’s contract extension is sure to provide a boost of confidence and stability for the team. As they continue to battle for a spot in the postseason, the Canucks can rest assured that they have a strong and reliable defenceman in Hronek for years to come.