Canucks Sign Reid Boucher to One-Year Contract Extension

The Vancouver Canucks and Reid Boucher agreed to terms on a one-year contract, valued at $687,000. It’s a one-way contract, which ensures that Boucher will earn his full salary, even if he’s playing games in the AHL.

The two sides were slated for salary arbitration, as Boucher filed on July 14th. Their hearing was set for August 1st. Given Boucher’s relatively modest salary, one would have to think that securing a one-way deal was the sticking point for the player’s camp.

Boucher first joined the Canucks as a waiver wire acquisition mid-season, after bouncing between the Nashville Predators and New Jersey Devils.

In 27 games with the Canucks last season, Boucher tantalized a blistering shot and modestly positive impacts on his team’s ability to control play at even strength in a limited role. Boucher’s five goals and two assists don’t necessarily jump off the page, but it’s fair to suggest he had more to offer and was held back by the role that then-head coach Willie Desjardins forced upon him. Players with Boucher’s skill set don’t generally thrive on the fourth line.

Next year will be a big one for Boucher, who turns 24-years-old mere weeks before puck drop. It’s now or never for the pint-sized goalscorer. It’s an uphill battle in training camp, where the Canucks have taken a volume approach to plugging the many holes at the front of their lineup.