Canucks announce two big contract signings today

The Vancouver Canucks kicked off the free agent period this morning by locking up a couple of their core members.

The team announced brand new contracts for veteran goalie Thatcher Demko and veteran forward Conor Garland today.

Up first, Garland signs a six year deal worth $6 million per season.

The 29 year old was slated to become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.

“Conor is a core member of our hockey team and a player who has taken on a bigger role with the club the past couple seasons,” said GM Patrik Allvin in a prepared statement. “His commitment to us by signing this deal shows how confident he is in our organization’s vision and direction. He competes hard every day, drives play on the ice, is relentless on the forecheck and is really tough to play against. Gars is an emerging leader in the group and works extremely hard to keep himself and the players around him accountable.”

Demko agreed to a three year deal worth $8.5 million per season.

The 29 year old goaltender is one of the NHL's most elite netminders, but he has been hampered by hip and knee injuries in recent seasons. This deal is certainly a gamble for the Canucks given Demko's injury history and the fact that he holds a complete no trade and no movement clause for all three years of his new deal.

“Thatcher is one of the top goalies in the National Hockey League and a key leader in our locker room,” said Allvin. “His desire to continue his career in Vancouver says a lot about what we are trying to accomplish and where this organization is headed. Demmer is one of the hardest working players on our team and gives our group great confidence when he takes the net. A complete package of size, strength, rebound control, and athletic ability, our players know that they have an opportunity to win each and every game he plays.”