Canucks Secure Two-Year Extension with Linus Karlsson
Vancouver Canucks forward Linus Karlsson has secured a two-year contract extension with a $2.25 million average annual value (AAV), as announced by General Manager Patrik Allvin.
Linus Karlsson’s Development and Impact
Allvin highlighted Karlsson’s impressive growth since joining the organization. The player has made significant strides in both his on-ice performance and personal development. Last season, he played a pivotal role in leading the Abbotsford Canucks to a Calder Cup Championship.
Karlsson’s momentum from that success has translated into solid performances this season with the Vancouver Canucks. At 26 years old, he has participated in 36 games this season, accumulating 16 points with a record of 9 goals and 7 assists.
Season Statistics
- Games Played: 36
- Points: 16 (9 goals, 7 assists)
- Penalty Minutes: 24
- Hits: 50 (fourth among Canucks forwards)
Karlsson has set new career highs in goals, assists, points, and games played this season, outpacing his totals from the previous season.
Career Overview
Over his career, Karlsson has skated in 63 NHL games, all with the Vancouver Canucks, totaling 22 points from 12 goals and 10 assists. He has also participated in two Stanley Cup playoff games during his time with the team.
In the American Hockey League (AHL), he has played 164 games for the Abbotsford Canucks. His AHL statistics include:
- Points: 148 (70 goals, 78 assists)
- Penalty Minutes: 126
- Plus/Minus Rating: +18
During the Calder Cup playoffs, he has appeared in 36 games, scoring 30 points (17 goals, 13 assists) while accumulating 44 penalty minutes. Notably, Karlsson led the AHL in playoff goals (14) and points (26) during the 2024 season.
Previous Experience
Before joining the North American leagues, Karlsson had a successful season with Skellefteå AIK in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). In 52 games, he scored 46 points (26 goals, 20 assists) and earned the title of SHL Rookie of the Year.
Karlsson was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the third round, with the 87th overall pick, during the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. His journey reflects a promising career trajectory in professional hockey.
