The Vancouver Canucks locked up a big piece of their blueline as the team announced that they have signed Alexander Edler to a four year contract. Edler, who will receive $550,000 this season, will receive $3.25 million per year starting next season.
"Alex is a gifted puck-moving defenceman who sees the ice extremely well for such a young player," Canucks general manager Mike Gillis said in a statement. "He has made great strides in his career and we look forward to further growth and development in his game."
The 22-year old Edler had eight goals and 12 assists in 75 games with the Canucks last season. In 97 career games, all with Vancouver the Ostersund, Sweden native has nine goals and 14 assists.
The Canucks selected Edler 91st overall in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.