Tom Willander: A Promising Rookie Defenseman
Tom Willander, a promising rookie defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, is displaying an impressive level of honesty and responsibility as he navigates his inaugural season in the NHL. Drafted 11th overall in 2023, Willander acknowledges the challenges he and his team have faced this season, stating,
“It’s been good and bad; we’ve had a rough patch, obviously. I’m having a good time still,”
he expressed to The Hockey News.
Transitioning to the NHL
Entering the 2025-26 season, Willander experienced uncertainty about his performance and the new professional landscape. After signing his entry-level contract with the Canucks in May 2025, he transitioned from NCAA hockey to his first full professional season. With several established young defensemen, including Elias Pettersson and Victor Mancini, there were discussions about whether he would begin with the Canucks or be assigned to their AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks.
After a brief stint in the AHL where he scored a goal and an assist in his last two games, he earned valuable experience that helped him acclimate to the NHL’s demands.
“I think that was huge for me, because that kind of gave me a few games in the system with having that freedom and confidence that I feel like I wouldn’t necessarily have up here. So I think that was very important, to kind of kickstart it,”
he said.
Rookie Performance and Adaptability
Willander is one of two rookies to debut for the Canucks this season; the other newcomer is center Braeden Cootes. His consistent presence in the lineup speaks volumes about his adaptability and performance, placing him sixth among rookie defensemen in scoring with three goals and 12 assists to date. When reflecting on his expectations for this season, he admits,
“I didn’t really have any. It’s easy to watch the game on the TV, but you don’t really know it until you’re in it. It’s a hard league. I think I’ve experienced that firsthand.”
Surprising Success and Veteran Guidance
Notably, he followed up on his unexpected NHL entry due to injuries on the team, which prompted the Canucks to promote him within the season’s first month. Willander expressed his surprise in being able to stay with the team consistently, saying,
“I actually didn’t see myself sticking long term for that at all… I kind of surprised myself in that a little bit, but it’s been fun.”
Decked out in a lineup that features veteran players with a wealth of experience, including Tyler Myers, Marcus Pettersson, and Filip Hronek, Willander benefits significantly from their guidance. Collectively, this trio brings over 2,000 NHL games to the table, which the Canucks are keen on leveraging as they transition through a rebuilding phase. Willander praised their influence, noting,
“I think they’ve been doing a great job… I think you learn a lot from watching them play.”
Looking Ahead
As the NHL gears up for the Olympic break in February, questions linger about the Canucks’ future trajectory. For Willander, who is gradually gaining comfort with each game, the latter portion of the 2025-26 season represents an essential period for refining his skills at the NHL level. He remarked,
“I look to better myself and better my game… I see it as a great opportunity to put myself in a good spot.”
Following the Canucks is crucial, as fans will want to stay updated on their journey and the stories emerging from this evolving team.
