Vancouver Canucks Re-Sign Former First-Round Pick

The Vancouver Canucks have re-signed defenseman Olli Juolevi to a one-year, $750,000 contract.

Vancouver #Canucks General Manager Jim Benning announced today that the club has re-signed defenceman Olli Juolevi to a one-year contract at a value of $750,000.

read more: https://t.co/zMYuv7E2aq pic.twitter.com/Rz5ezHpZVT
— Vancouver #Canucks (@Canucks) August 9, 2021

The Canucks selected Juolevi fifth overall in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft and the 23-year-old is currently trying to cement his spot in the league now. This year was his rookie season and in it, he scored two goals and recorded three points in 23 total games. Although those statistics may not be the most exciting, this is only the beginning for the former first-rounder.

When looking at the Canucks' defensive group, he may find himself as their seventh defenseman this season. He will be competing with fellow youngster Jack Rathone for ice time on the bottom-pair. Rathbone also had three points last season, but he only played eight games with the team. Thus, Juolevi may have things riding against him right now. All hope isn't lost, though.

He should still a decent amount of action when injuries inevitably occur, at a minimum. We will see how he much he progresses this upcoming season.