By Canadian Press

Vancouver Canucks re-sign forward Jake Virtanen to two-year contract

Jul 25, 2018 | 11:15 AM

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Jake Virtanen to a two-year deal with an average annual value of US$1.25 million.

The 21-year-old from New Westminster, B.C., recorded 10 goals and 10 assists in 75 games for the Canucks in 2017-18, setting career highs in games played, goals, assists, points and penalty minutes. His 155 hits led all Canucks forwards, while his 46 penalty minutes ranked fourth on the team.

In 140 career NHL games over three seasons with the Canucks, the six-foot-one, 229-pound right-winger has 34 points (17 goals, 17 assists) and 93 penalty minutes.

Virtanen was originally selected by Vancouver in the first round, sixth overall, at the 2014 NHL draft.

“We’re pleased to sign Jake to an extension,” Canucks general manager Jim Benning said in a statement. “He adds physical presence and speed to our line-up and can help create offensive chances when going hard to the net. We look forward to seeing Jake take the next step in his game and consistently contribute to the team’s success.”

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The Canadian Press