The Vancouver Canucks have secured forward Linus Karlsson for another year,
signing him to a one-year, one-way contract worth $775,000.
The deal, announced by General Manager Patrik Allvin, ensures that the Swedish forward remains part of the organization for the 2025-26 season.
Karlsson’s Performance in the AHL
Karlsson, 25, spent the majority of the 2024-25 season playing with the Abbotsford Canucks in the American Hockey League (AHL). Over the course of the season, he registered an impressive 32 points, consisting of 19 goals and 13 assists. His efforts also included 22 penalty minutes and a solid +11 plus/minus rating, reflecting his effectiveness on the ice.
Among Abbotsford skaters, Karlsson currently ranks second in goals scored (19) and third in total points (32). These statistics underscore his offensive contributions and consistency at the AHL level. Beyond his time in Abbotsford, Karlsson also appeared in nine NHL games for Vancouver this season, where he notched one goal and maintained a +1 plus/minus rating.
Career Progression in the AHL
Karlsson has been a mainstay with Abbotsford for three seasons, accumulating significant experience and refining his game in the AHL. Since joining the team, he has played in a total of 160 games, amassing 141 points through 66 goals and 75 assists. Additionally, he has recorded 124 penalty minutes and a cumulative +16 rating. His contributions extend into the postseason as well, where he has participated in 12 AHL playoff games, registering four points (three goals, one assist) and logging 16 penalty minutes.
NHL Experience and Development
Although Karlsson has spent most of his professional career in the AHL, he has also had opportunities to compete at the NHL level. Since making his NHL debut on November 16, 2023, he has appeared in 15 total games for the Vancouver Canucks, including two playoff contests. While his NHL experience remains limited, the organization clearly sees potential in his development, leading to this contract extension.
Draft and Trade History
Karlsson’s journey to the Vancouver Canucks began at the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, where he was selected in the third round, 87th overall, by the San Jose Sharks. However, he never played for San Jose, as he was traded to Vancouver on February 25, 2019, in exchange for forward Jonathan Dahlen. Since then, he has worked his way up through the Canucks’ system, proving his value in the AHL and earning occasional NHL call-ups.
What This Contract Means for Karlsson and the Canucks
By securing Karlsson on a one-year, one-way contract, the Canucks are signaling their belief in his ability to contribute at the NHL level. A one-way deal ensures that Karlsson will earn his full salary whether he plays in the NHL or AHL, which suggests the Canucks may be looking to give him more opportunities with the big club next season.
The signing provides Vancouver with additional depth at forward, particularly with a player who has demonstrated scoring ability in the AHL. While Karlsson has yet to establish himself as a full-time NHL player, this contract gives him another chance to prove he belongs at the highest level of competition.
As the Canucks continue to build for the future, Karlsson’s development will be something to watch. Whether he solidifies a role in Vancouver’s lineup or continues to be a key contributor in Abbotsford, this extension ensures he remains within the organization for at least another season.