Canucks recall top prospect Tom Willander

Rick Dhaliwal of CHEK shared on Monday that the Vancouver Canucks are calling up top defensive prospect Tom Willander. The 20-year-old had been assigned to the AHL just two days ago, but now is back on the big club. The transaction may signal that he could draw into the lineup, as Willander had just been with the Canucks for salary purposes, and has not actually debuted yet. 

Since being sent down, Willander appeared in one game with Abbotsford (AHL), adding an assist, now up to two points in his first five North American professional games. Drafted 11th overall in the 2023 draft by Vancouver, Willander is widely considered the club’s No. 1 prospect and one of the top defensive prospects in the league. 

Despite having limited professional experience so far, the Swede spent the past two seasons starring for the NCAA’s Boston University, becoming acquainted with the North American game. Before his time in college, Willander made two appearances for Rögle BK of the SHL as a teenager. 

A smooth-skating right-hander at 6-foot-1, Willander’s ability in his own end could be NHL-ready. The offense may take some time, but not many have his acumen at this phase in their careers with his quickness and agility. Vancouver could call on Willander to make his awaited debut partly due to necessity. With Quinn Hughes out day-to-day and Victor Mancini also banged up, the team is particularly depleted on the back-end as they prepare to host the Rangers on Tuesday. 

Although it may seem like a forgone conclusion considering the circumstances, fans will watch closely for updates on whether the prospect will make his debut Tuesday or not.