Canucks GM Patrik Allvin comments on decision to sign Nils Hoglander to extension

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Cooper Godin
October 8, 2024 (9:09)

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Vancouver Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin comments on the team's decision to sign forward Nils Hoglander to an extension.

Months after having a strong 2023-24 season, the Vancouver Canucks rewarded Nils Hoglander by signing him to an extension. Hoglander's contract, which kicks in next season, is for three years and will see him earn a $3 million per year.

Patrik Allvin spoke about the team's decision to sign Hoglander to an extension right before the regular season began and it all comes down to the Swedish forward earning it. Allvin said that sending Hoglander down to the American Hockey League two years ago helped him significantly and that he's gotten a lot better since then.

"I think Nils has earned it," said Allvin about the contract extension. "Going back two years ago, when I was sitting in my office with him and making the hard decision for him to go down to Abbotsford and kind of resetting his game and learning how to play the right way. He wasn't happy about it, but he accepted it, and he trusted the organization, and he got better ever since."

Hoglander, 23, had an impressive showing during the 2023-24 campaign, setting new career highs in goals and points. In 80 games, the Bocktrask, Sweden native registered 36 points (24 goals, 12 assists), 51 penalty minutes and was a plus-23. All 24 of Hoglander's goals last season came at even strength. However during the playoffs, Hoglander saw a dip in production, putting up one goal and one assist in 11 games.

We'll have to wait and see where Rick Tocchet decides to place Nils Hoglander in the Canucks' lineup for opening night tomorrow against the Calgary Flames. It wouldn't be shocking to see him on a line with J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser, but he may start out on the third line with Aatu Raty and Conor Garland.