Just a few hours after Vancouver Canucks forward Andrei Kuzmenko officially agreed to terms on a new two-year contract extension, his family issued a letter through agent Dan Milstein thanking Canucks fans, coaches, and management.
Kuzmenko, 26, signed a deal with the Canucks on Thursday worth $5.5 million in both the 2023–24 and 2024–25 seasons. His current entry-level contract, carrying an $855,000 base salary and more than $900,000 in bonuses, expires in July.
Shortly after Milstein broke the news of Kuzmenko’s signing, he passed along a letter entitled “A Thank you from the family of Andrei Kuzmenko!” on his verified Twitter account.
“The family of Vancouver Canucks player Andrei Kuzmenko would like to express the following thank-yous,” the letter began. “First, to the fans of one of the most beautiful cities in the world for their warm hospitality towards our son.
“To Canucks management – for creating an environment for Andrei to succeed to the best of his abilities.
“To the coaching staff – for believing in our son, helping him grow professionally with the team, and for helping him make the most of his opportunity with the Vancouver Canucks.”
Kuzmenko’s parents, Alexander and Galina, both signed the letter, as did his sister, Victoria Alt, and his childhood friend, Turpal Dadahanov.
While it’s unclear which Canucks coaching staff they intended to thank in the letter, the Kuzmenko family concluded the letter with the message: “We wish the Canucks success for the remainder of this season and in the seasons ahead.”
Kuzmenko has enjoyed a tremendous first NHL season with the Canucks, racking up 21 goals and 43 points through his first 47 games with the team. Had he not signed an extension with the Canucks, Kuzmenko would have been eligible to become an unrestricted free agent in July.
The Canucks will return to action on Friday evening when they host the Columbus Blue Jackets at Rogers Arena.
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