Vancouver Canucks sign goalie Thatcher Demko, winger Conor Garland to extensions

VANCOUVER - The Vancouver Canucks have re-signed one of their top scorers, inking right-winger Brock Boeser to a seven-year, US$50.75-million deal. 

The team announced the new contract about half an hour after the NHL's free agency period opened on Tuesday and the 28-year-old from Burnsville, Minn., became an unrestricted free agent.

Boeser had 25 goals and 25 assists for Vancouver last season, well below the career highs he posted in goals (40) and points (73) during the 2023-24 campaign.

There was ample speculation in March that the 28-year-old right-winger would be moved ahead of the NHL’s trade deadline, but Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said the offers simply weren’t enticing enough. 

Originally selected 23rd overall by the Canucks in the 2015 draft, Boeser has played all 554 of his career NHL games for Vancouver, amassing 204 goals and 230 assists in regular-season play. He added another 11 goals and 12 assists over 29 post-season appearances. 

The six-foot-one, 208-pound forward from Burnsville, Minn., became a fan favourite not only for his scoring prowess, but how he handled adversity off the ice, including the death of his father, Duke, in May 2022.

The support from Vancouver hockey fans always meant a lot to Boeser.

"I can't say enough about the fan base and the city. Everyone's so kind to me, if I'm just out and about," he said at the end of the 2024-25 campaign. "Everyone's always had my back and supported me. And that's something that I really appreciate "

Earlier on Tuesday, the Canucks announced extensions for all-star goalie Thatcher Demko and winger Conor Garland. 

Demko inked a three-year, $25.5-million deal, while Garland signed a six-year, $36-million contract. 

Both players are heading into