In a stunning move that has rocked the NHL world, the Vancouver Canucks have completed a blockbuster deal, officially acquiring 4-time All-Star Tomáš Hertl in a seven-year, $127 million contract, marking one of the most ambitious signings in franchise history.
The deal, confirmed by the Canucks and Hertl’s representatives early this morning, instantly transforms Vancouver’s top-six forward group and signals the team’s full commitment to competing for a Stanley Cup in the immediate future.
“This is a game-changer,” said Canucks GM Patrik Allvin. “Tomáš is a proven elite center with leadership, experience, and high-end skill. Adding a player of his caliber not only strengthens our roster, it raises the standard of what this team is striving for.”
Hertl, 30, has spent the majority of his career with the San Jose Sharks, where he became a fan favorite and established himself as one of the league’s most consistent and dangerous two-way forwards. Over the past five seasons, he’s averaged nearly a point per game and remains dominant in the faceoff circle, on the power play, and in clutch situations.
He was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2024 but now makes his way north to Vancouver via a sign-and-trade structure that was finalized late last night. The Canucks, according to sources, negotiated the contract terms directly with Hertl and completed the trade with conditional picks and a prospect package.
“This was a perfect fit,” said Hertl during an introductory statement. “Vancouver has always been a place I’ve loved playing in. The fans, the energy, the direction of this team—it all made sense. I’m here to win.”
The seven-year, $127 million deal includes a full no-move clause, heavy performance bonuses, and front-loaded salary structure—ensuring Hertl will be both financially secure and central to the team’s long-term plans.
The Canucks, who are coming off a strong playoff showing under head coach Rick Tocchet, now boast one of the most formidable forward groups in the Western Conference, with Hertl expected to center a line between J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser, or potentially serve as a 1A/1B option with Elias Pettersson.
Social media exploded moments after the announcement, with “#HertlToVancouver” and “Canucks Cup Run” trending across Canada. Thousands of fans flooded the team store’s website, crashing servers as new Hertl jerseys went on sale.
“This is a statement to the rest of the league,” Allvin said. “The Vancouver Canucks aren’t just knocking on the door—we’re ready to kick it down.”
Hertl will be officially introduced at a press conference this week at Rogers Arena.
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