NHL News: After rebound years in Russia, Elias Pettersson's Canucks welcome back former ...

This sports article reports on the Vancouver Canucks' offseason moves as they prepare for another playoff push in the upcoming NHL season.

The Vancouver Canucks have re-signed Russian forward Vitali Kravtsov to a one-year, two-way contract after he spent two seasons playing in the KHL. The former 9th overall draft pick by the New York Rangers struggled to establish himself in the NHL previously, managing just 10 points in 48 games with New York before being traded to Vancouver in 2023. His return creates an interesting reunion with former Rangers teammate Filip Chytil, who also joined the Canucks.

• Kravtsov will need to prove himself with the AHL's Abbotsford Canucks before earning an NHL call-up
• The signing addresses depth but leaves Vancouver's main need for a reliable center unresolved
• The Canucks are reportedly still targeting free agent Jack Roslovic to fill their center position
• This move represents Vancouver's continued efforts to strengthen their roster for a Stanley Cup playoff return