The Vancouver Canucks announced on Thursday that they have re-signed defenseman Ben Hutton to a two-year contract extension worth $5.6 million.
2 more years of @bhutt10 😃#Canucks sign Hutton to contract extension! https://t.co/yMlZVt1VEE pic.twitter.com/8c0QUdLniS
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) November 24, 2016
According to the Canucks’ press release, the team extended Hutton’s contract for another two years with an average value of $2.8 million per season. General manager Jim Benning said, “We’re excited to see him further elevate his game and help this team compete for years to come.”
Hutton’s previous entry-level deal had a cap hit of $896,250. Hutton would have become a restricted free agent this summer had a deal not been made.
Hutton spoke on the signing, saying, “It’s a dream come true to play in this league and to be part of this team. The Canucks wanting me for another two years is great.”
Vancouver Canucks Sign Ben Hutton to Two-Year Extension
Hutton, a fifth round selection by the Canucks in the 2012 NHL Draft, scored 25 points in 75 games during the 2015-16 season. He also was sixth among NHL rookies in time on ice, averaging about 20 minutes per game.
So far this season, the 23-year-old defenseman has two goals and two assists in 20 games. Cementing the Canucks blue line, this extension will allow Hutton to thrive further as the Canucks rebuild continues.
With Hutton signed, the Canucks will most likely be aiming to sign forward Bo Horvat, who becomes a restricted free agent at the end of this season.
#Canucks GM Benning says management group will now focus on Horvat and they'd like a long term deal there, not bridge.
— Dan Murphy (@sportsnetmurph) November 24, 2016
The Canucks currently have 18 points on the season and sit sixth in the NHL’s Pacific Division. Vancouver will play the Dallas Stars on Friday night.
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