Like the Tampa Bay Lightning did earlier today, the Vancouver Canucks have turned their attention to entry-level deals for CHL players. This time, it’s Kole Lind, the Canucks’ second-round pick from 2017 that has inked his three-year entry-level contract. The deal will begin in 2018-19, and according to Rick Dhaliwal of News 1130, contains the maximum performance bonuses. GM Jim Benning shared his thoughts on Lind, who plays for the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL:
Kole has had an outstanding season in Kelowna despite missing games due to illness and injury. We’ve been impressed not only with his high-end offensive skill but also in the way he battles, sees the ice and makes plays in the defensive end. We’re excited for him to continue his development and provide further forward depth for our organization.
Lind, 19, is an excellent two-way forward who has put up 85 points in 51 games this season and could be in the Canucks future before long. Though he’s likely at least another year or two away from the NHL, his big shot and compete level give him an inside track on a top-six role down the road.
Along with Elias Pettersson, Jonah Gadjovich and Michael DiPietro, Lind is part of an incredibly talented crop for Vancouver from the 2017 draft. All four have a good chance to play in the NHL for a long time, and could be a huge part of the rebuild for the Canucks. For now, Lind will focus on taking the Rockets through the WHL playoffs and a potential Memorial Cup appearance.
Sweet!! He’s so good I watch him a lot