The Canucks swing big on Tom Willander, the "Perfect fit for Quinn Hughes"

NASHVILLE, Tennessee – Actions speak louder than words, and Patrik Allvin stuck to his mantra of drafting the player with the highest ceiling. 

A year ago, heading into the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Allvin spoke about focusing on a high-upside player with their first selection. They made good on that promise by picking Jonathan Lekkerimäki at No. 15. When asked whether the club would follow the same mantra this year, Allvin was steadfast that they would. 

“We always look for the highest potential with a player. Not just next year, but when they’re between 23 and 25," Allvin said. "You’re looking for difference-makers there. We will target the best player available based on upside.”

And that is what they did at No. 11 in 2023, picking defenceman Tom Willander. 

Vancouver owner Francesco Aquilini co