The Vancouver Canucks have made a concerted effort to add physical pushback and veteran experience to their lineup on the opening day of free agency. On Wednesday afternoon, General Manager Ryan Johnson announced the club has signed defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Paul Cotter to one-year contracts.
Schenn’s deal carries an average annual value (AAV) of $2.25 million, while Cotter’s contract comes in at a $2.15 million AAV.
WELCOME BACK, SCHENNER!
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) July 1, 2026
General Manager Ryan Johnson announced today that the #Canucks have agreed to terms with defenceman Luke Schenn on a one-year contract worth $2.25M AAV. pic.twitter.com/nGAMVXqgn9
For the 36-year-old Schenn, this marks his third stint in a Canucks sweater. The two-time Stanley Cup champion brings an immense level of familiarity with the Vancouver market and the organization's defensive systems. Schenn split last season between the Winnipeg Jets and Buffalo Sabres, but his reputation as an elite locker-room leader and heavy defensive presence remains intact. The veteran blueliner is the NHL's all-time hits leader among defensemen.
Meanwhile, Cotter also brings Stanley Cup-winning pedigree to Vancouver, having helped the Vegas Golden Knights to the title in 2023. He has 47 goals and 82 points in 296 career games between Vegas and the New Jersey Devils.