In a move that signals their intent to contend now, the Vancouver Canucks have officially signed veteran defenseman Brandon Montour to a multi-year deal, luring him away from the Florida Panthers in one of the biggest free agency surprises of the offseason. The Canucks, eager to add experience and dynamism to their defense corps, have landed one of the most coveted right-shot defensemen on the market.
Montour, 30, is coming off a strong run with the Panthers, where he was a crucial part of their 2024 Stanley Cup championship. His blend of elite skating, offensive creativity, and physical presence makes him a perfect fit for Vancouver’s evolving system. Sources indicate the deal is worth approximately $6.5 million annually over four years, though the Canucks have yet to confirm official terms.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brandon to Vancouver,” said General Manager Patrik Allvin. “He’s a proven winner, an elite skater, and brings the kind of energy and leadership our locker room will thrive on. He complements our core beautifully and gives our back end a significant boost.”
Montour will now join a defensive unit led by Quinn Hughes, who himself had a career season and was a Norris Trophy finalist. Together, they’re expected to form one of the most explosive and versatile blue lines in the NHL. Hughes’ smooth puck-moving ability and offensive vision, paired with Montour’s all-around skill set, could make for a lethal combination both at even strength and on the power play.
For the Canucks, this signing is more than just about improving the roster — it’s a clear message that they’re done rebuilding and ready to make noise in the Western Conference. After a strong 2024 campaign that saw them return to the playoffs and make a second-round appearance, Vancouver is determined to take the next step toward Stanley Cup contention.
Montour, originally drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2014, spent time with the Ducks, Buffalo Sabres, and most recently the Panthers, where his game blossomed. In the 2022-23 season, he recorded a career-high 73 points (16 goals, 57 assists) and followed it up with a dominant playoff performance. He’s known for his ability to jump into the rush, quarterback the power play, and log big minutes in all situations.
“This is an exciting new chapter for me,” Montour said in a statement. “Vancouver is a passionate hockey market with a team on the rise. I’m here to help bring a championship to this city.”
The Canucks’ offseason now looks like one of the strongest in the NHL, with Montour joining a core that includes Elias Pettersson, Brock Boeser, J.T. Miller, and Thatcher Demko. With a fortified defense and momentum from last season, expectations are rising quickly in British Columbia.
Brandon Montour’s arrival isn’t just a signing — it’s a statement. The Canucks are back, and they mean business.
