VANCOUVER, B.C. - The Vancouver Canucks have locked up forward Ryan Kesler to a US$30-million, six-year contract extension.
The 25-year-old forward was due to become a restricted free agent on July 1 and is now under contract through the 2015-16 season.
Kesler is in the midst of a career season, having already recorded 66 points (21-45) in 71 games.
He's spent his entire career in Vancouver after being drafted 23rd overall in 2003.
In 391 career NHL games, the U.S. Olympian has recorded 86 goals and 206 points.
Kesler was a runner-up for the Selke Trophy as the league's top defensive forward last season.