The Vancouver Canucks organization has officially taken a significant procedural step by signing their first-round selection from the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Braeden Cootes, to a three-year entry-level contract.
The agreement, announced on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, formalizes the relationship between the club and the highly-regarded 18-year-old centre, paving his way towards a professional career within the Canucks` system.
Introducing the Prospect: Braeden Cootes
Cootes was selected 15th overall by the Canucks during the draft held in Los Angeles in June 2025. Hailing from Sherwood Park, Alberta, he has established himself as a promising talent, particularly recognized for his leadership qualities and offensive production.
He most recently served as captain for the Seattle Thunderbirds in the Western Hockey League (WHL). During the 2024-25 regular season, Cootes recorded an impressive 63 points, scoring 26 goals and adding 37 assists over 60 games. He followed that performance with 8 points (2 goals, 6 assists) in six playoff contests.
Beyond major junior hockey, Cootes also captained Team Canada at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship. He played a crucial role in leading his nation to a gold medal, tallying 12 points (6 goals, 6 assists) in just seven games. His performance on the international stage further solidified his status as a top prospect and a natural leader.
The Significance of an Entry-Level Deal
For many fans, an entry-level contract might sound like standard boilerplate, and to some extent, it is. However, for a first-round pick like Cootes, putting pen to paper on this three-year deal represents a pivotal moment. It signifies the official transition from being merely `drafted potential` to a signed asset under the club`s control, subject to the NHL`s collective bargaining agreement rules for young players.
This contract is the first step on his professional journey. While he is expected to continue his development, likely returning to the WHL for at least one more season (as dictated by NHL-CH transfer agreements for players his age), this signing ensures the Canucks hold his professional rights and can guide his path towards potentially joining the NHL roster in the future. The three-year term is the standard length for entry-level contracts for 18-year-old players.
Looking Ahead
Securing Cootes with an entry-level deal allows the Canucks management and coaching staff to work more closely with the player, monitor his progress diligently, and integrate him into organizational development camps and future plans. He represents a key piece of the team`s future pipeline, and this signing is a necessary and exciting step forward.
Canucks fans now have another significant prospect to keep a close eye on as Cootes continues to hone his skills and leadership abilities, aiming one day to wear the Canucks jersey in the National Hockey League.
Tristan Blackwood