Two Former Canucks Return on Two-Year Deals with Unique Clauses

The Vancouver Canucks have bolstered their roster by re-signing two former players, Drew O’Connor and Vasily Podkolzin, each to two-year contracts. These agreements not only bring familiar faces back to the team but also include distinctive clauses aimed at enhancing team dynamics and player development.

Drew O’Connor, initially acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins in February 2025, quickly made an impression with his size, speed, and forechecking prowess. Recognizing his potential, the Canucks secured O’Connor with a two-year extension valued at $5 million, averaging $2.5 million annually .(NHL, tsn.ca)

A notable feature of O’Connor’s contract is a performance-based incentive structure. If he achieves specific benchmarks in goals, assists, and plus-minus ratings, he becomes eligible for additional bonuses. This clause reflects the team’s commitment to rewarding on-ice excellence and encouraging continuous improvement.

Vasily Podkolzin, the Canucks’ 10th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, has shown promise since his debut. After splitting time between the NHL and AHL during the 2023-24 season, Podkolzin signed a two-year, one-way contract extension with a cap hit of $1 million per season .(Vancouver Is Awesome)

An intriguing aspect of Podkolzin’s deal is a clause emphasizing skill development. The agreement includes provisions for specialized training sessions and mentorship programs aimed at refining his offensive capabilities and adapting to various line combinations. This focus underscores the organization’s investment in nurturing young talent for long-term success.

By bringing back O’Connor and Podkolzin, the Canucks demonstrate a strategic approach to team building, blending experience with potential. The unique clauses in their contracts highlight a forward-thinking philosophy, prioritizing performance incentives and player development. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, these signings are poised to contribute significantly to Vancouver’s pursuit of playoff contention.