June 27th, 2025: The Vancouver Canucks opt to keep their first round pick amidst rumors they might trade the pick in a deal to acquire a second line center. Instead, the team selects center Braeden Cootes from the Seattle Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League.
Now, less than two weeks later, the team announced they have signed Cootes to a three-year entry-level contract.
General Manager Patrik Allvin announced today that the #Canucks have agreed to terms with forward Braeden Cootes on a three-year, entry-level contract.
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) July 9, 2025
It could have been due to the fact that Cootes was the only prospect to beat the Sedin twins up the infamous grouse grind (granted he had a 10 minute head start) but regardless, Cootes clearly impressed the Canucks brass enough for them to want to sign him to his ELC this early on.
According to PuckPedia, Cootes salary comes in at $950,000 per season, with an additonal $500,000 in performance bonuses. While it's expected Cootes returns for at least one more season with the Seattle Thunderbirds, we may see Cootes in blue and green sooner than expected.