The Vancouver Canucks have locked up Filip Hronek long term. The 26-year-old pending restricted free agent has signed an eight-year contract extension worth $7.25 million a year.
Hronek had an impressive first full season with the Canucks, scoring 48 points (5-43-48), while forming one of the best defence pairings in the NHL with Quinn Hughes.
“Filip has fit in seamlessly on our blueline, giving us stability and strength on the right side,” said Canucks GM Patrik Allvin. “His ability to skate, defend and create offence is exactly what you want from a top pairing defenceman. This season he has shown all of us his desire to compete and a willingness to be a leader on this hockey team. We look forward to seeing him continue to help elevate our group and for him to grow both on and off the ice.”
The Canucks not only avoid arbitration by signing Hronek now, they also get cost certainty ahead of the start of free agency on July 1. Hronek’s new contract makes him the second-highest paid defenceman on the team, behind Hughes, who makes $7.85 million per season.
More to come…