Vancouver Canucks Sign First‑Round Pick Adam Novotny to Three‑Year Entry‑Level Deal

The Czech winger, selected 24th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the June 26 draft in Buffalo, signed a three‑year entry‑level contract on Tuesday. He recorded 34 goals and 65 points in 58 OHL games with the Peterborough Petes last season.

General manager Ryan Johnson said, “Character, compete and a winning mentality — those are three of the things we really appreciate about Adam’s DNA.” He added that Novotny impressed during the recent development camp in Abbotsford, showcasing strong skating, puck control, a quick release, relentless puck pursuit, and a coachable attitude.

Standing 6‑foot‑1 and weighing 205 pounds, Novotny possesses the size and strength to compete at the NHL level immediately. GM Johnson has emphasized patience as the Canucks enter a rebuild, indicating that they will avoid rushing prospects and expect Novotny to return to Peterborough for another OHL season this fall.

He may still appear in up to nine NHL regular‑season games without activating the entry‑level contract clock, after which he would be sent back to the junior ranks. The entry‑level contract must be signed before this arrangement takes effect, and the Canucks could also negotiate a deal directly from training camp.

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