A strong pre-season showing by Vancouver Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes against the Seattle Kraken has renewed debate over whether he should get another NHL chance or continue his development with a larger role in the AHL.
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Vancouver Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes’ performance in a pre-season test against the Seattle Kraken has prompted renewed questions about where he fits heading into the regular season—whether that means more NHL responsibility or a bigger role in the AHL.
Cootes, 19, played with creativity and showed game sense during key stretches of the game.
One sequence highlighted in the evaluation involved Cootes receiving a cross-ice feed with Arshdeep Bains, freezing the goaltender before finishing quickly on a short-side wrist shot.
Special teams were also part of the assessment. After a 4-2 setback, Cootes moved into the high slot on the power play and helped set up a chance for Bains.
The evaluation of Cootes also considered what can be taught through coaching at the NHL level versus what he already brings, including defensive awareness and overall diligence.
In addition, the Canucks’ roster picture could affect where Cootes lands. Filip Chytil has been discussed as a possible option moving to the wing, which could change how centres are grouped.
If Chytil shifts to wing, the centre options being considered include Elias Pettersson, Marco Rossi, Cootes and Aatu Raty.
The Canucks are also weighing development and workload considerations, including whether Cootes should be used in a way that allows for consistent repetition of his responsibilities rather than an immediate NHL full-time role.
The broader camp roster conversation also included Vancouver’s defensive depth, including Victor Mancini, and how waiver and assignment flexibility can influence whether players stay with the NHL club or play in Abbotsford.
Kirill Kudryavtsev was also described as another factor in the depth situation, given how his waiver timeline and role could allow for flexible usage between Vancouver and Abbotsford.
General manager Ryan Johnson’s reported preference for reducing player “yo-yoing” was also referenced as a potential factor in how the Canucks decide between stability and short-term roster adjustments.
Cootes is entering this stage after playing three NHL games last season, with expectations that he wants to build on that experience rather than simply make it through the NHL level.
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