Taking a look at four Canuck prospects that are having impressive starts to the season.
The Vancouver Canucks are starting to build up an impression prospect pool. From strong play in junior to success at the pro level, Canuck prospects are making an impact all over the world. Here is an update on four prospects that have impressed so far this season.
Hunter Brzustewicz
Hunter Brzustewicz is thriving for the Kitchener Rangers this season. The Canucks third-rounder not only leads all defencemen in points with 40 through 24 games but has more assists than any other defender has points in the OHL. Based on his start, he is the favourite to be named the top defenceman not just at the OHL level but also for the entire CHL.
Ty Mueller
Ty Mueller has found his scoring touch as of late at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He is up to ten points in 11 games and recently put together a five-goal goal streak. Drafted 105th overall in 2023 by Vancouver, the 20-year-old is starting to become a more consistent point producer in his third NCAA season.
Hugo Gabrielson
Over in Sweden, Hugo Gabrielson is having a strong start to his season. Drafted in the sixth round back in 2021, the 21-year-old defenceman has five points in 18 games for Västerviks IK of the HockeyAllsvenskan and consistently plays over 20 minutes a game. If he can continue to improve and add some additional offence to his game, he could be a player the Canucks sign before his rights are relinquished in 2025.
Artūrs Šilovs
Moving a little closer to home, Artūrs Šilovs has developed into one of the best goaltenders in the AHL. He is not only tied for second in wins with seven but also in shutouts with two. He also has an assist and a SV% of .920% or higher in each of his last five games. At this point, he looks like the Canucks goaltender of the future and should graduate to the NHL level as early as next season.