Zeev Buium says the Vancouver Canucks’ passionate fan base, emerging young core, and new leadership group all played significant roles in his decision to commit eight more years to the Canucks.

Speaking on NHL Network after signing a long-term contract with Vancouver, Buium said the organization’s confidence in him was matched by how quickly he connected with the city and team after arriving last season.

“I think a big thing is just the belief they had in me to want to get this done as well,” Buium said. “The second I got here last year, I just really fell in love with the city, the fans, the organization itself.”

Vancouver endured a difficult season in the standings, but Buium said the response from Canucks fans left a lasting impression. “We were last in the league, having a tough go, and they’re showing up every night, and they’re cheering,” he said. “They’re so invested and passionate.”

Loyalty, however, was only part of what convinced Buium that Vancouver was the right place for his future. He credited the Canucks’ revamped leadership structure, highlighting general manager Ryan Johnson, co-presidents Henrik and Daniel Sedin, and head coach Manny Malhotra as reasons to be optimistic about the organization’s direction.

“It just really seems like things are starting to go the right way,” Buium said. “I think we all kind of align in our vision and what we want this organization to look like down the road.”

Buium sees similar promise in the roster around him. Asked which teammates could surprise people this season, he singled out Tom Willander, Liam Öhgren, and Paul Cotter.

“I think obviously a guy like Willander,” he said. “I think Öhgren is another guy who can. I played against him growing up, obviously World Junior stuff like that, but his shot is just so lethal and he’s fast.”

Beyond pure talent, Buium said Vancouver’s younger players have already developed a strong connection away from the ice — something he believes can help the group grow together. “Everyone always wants to be together,” he said. “We kind of understand the balance of working hard and being serious, but at the same time having fun with it.”

For Buium, signing a $75.04 million NHL contract is something he is still trying to process.

“Honestly, it still doesn’t feel real,” he said. “We were just San Diego boys playing for fun, and mom and dad just driving us to the rink. It’s crazy to think where we are now.”

Buium’s new deal gives Vancouver long-term security with one of the most important pieces of its young core. Just as notably, his comments offer a glimpse into why he believes in where the Canucks are headed.

After a difficult season, Buium sees a committed fan base and a leadership group with a clear vision for what comes next. And he wants to be part of it.