Rising Star Tom Willander: A Promising Addition to the Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver Canucks’ newest prospect, Tom Willander, made a significant impression during the latter half of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft process. His outstanding performance in the J20 playoffs and the U18 World Championship captured the attention of both fans and experts alike.

Throughout the draft process, it was widely believed that the Canucks focused on addressing a specific positional need with their 11th overall pick. The team evaluated several winger prospects, including Zach Benson, Matthew Wood, and Colby Barlow. However, it became apparent that Vancouver had specific criteria: they were looking for centers or right-handed defenders to fill their roster.

Ultimately, the Canucks’ selection of Willander closely aligned with these expectations. He is a high-quality prospect, praised by those who have closely worked with him and coached him. Willander is a quiet, hard-working individual who exudes a calm presence.

A Perfect Fit for Vancouver

Willander’s exceptional skills and qualities make him the kind of player the Canucks organization needs. He excels in a premium position, demonstrating remarkable footwork, a tenacious playing style, and a high defensive IQ—a rare attribute for younger defensemen.

While Willander’s statistical profile is impressive, it is vital to acknowledge the commonality of such profiles in the NHL. For every success story like Lindholm or Hjalmarsson, several players such as Linus Nassen, Lawrence Pilut, or Mikael Wikstrand didn’t reach their full potential. Additionally, some players like Timothy Liljegren, Markus Lilja, or Robert Hagg have peaked as depth players. In an exceptionally deep draft class rich in high-end forward talent, there is a legitimate concern that the Canucks may have missed out on star-level value by prioritizing positional need over other potential prospects.

Willander’s Decision: Opting for NCAA

While it’s uncommon for Swedish defensemen to pursue their development in North America rather than remain in their home country until turning professional, the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) offers a familiar infrastructure, with the support of friends and family. Many successful players have emerged from the SHL, making it a reliable path for development.
However, Willander has chosen to play for Boston University (BU) this fall. He explained that SHL teams prioritize winning, and player development may receive a different level of emphasis. Willander believes that by joining the NCAA, he will have more opportunities for ice time and be part of a program that prioritizes player development. Moreover, he sees it as a chance to acclimate to the smaller North American ice and embrace cultural differences.


The challenges young defensemen face in the SHL, where earning significant playing time can be hard to earn, are exemplified by Vaxjo HC‘s Filip Nordberg, who played 60 games last season split between 3 leagues and four teams. Willander believes that playing in the NCAA will provide a better fit for his personal development. It will allow him to improve his offensive game without competing against seasoned professionals for limited minutes, power-play opportunities, or the need to focus solely on error-free play to earn the coaching staff’s trust.

Vancouver is well-positioned with its connections to BU, creating a comfortable atmosphere for Willander’s development. Scott Young, the Canucks’ director of player personnel, spent three years at BU from 2014 to 2017, initially as the director of hockey operations before serving as an assistant coach under David Quinn’s staff. Patrik Allvin highlighted the value of Mike Komisarek, one of the team’s development coaches, who will support Willander throughout his transition to the NCAA. Komisarek’s experience as a right-shot top-four defender, selected seventh overall in the 2001 draft, adds a relatable perspective for Willander.

In conclusion, Tom Willander’s selection by the Vancouver Canucks at 11th overall presents an exciting prospect for the team. His skills, work ethic, and potential for growth make him a valuable addition. Willander’s decision to join Boston University reflects his commitment to personal development and aligns with his long-term goals. With Vancouver’s strong connections to BU and the support provided by experienced staff like Mike Komisarek, Willander’s transition to the NCAA is set to be a smooth and beneficial journey.

June 26 – Week 3 Breakdown, The Fallout of the games, Looking ahead to week 4 PLUS the HSP Week 3 Power Ranking Reveal Hughes Sports Podcast- HSP

Welcome to The HSP (Hughes Sports Podcast) – your ultimate source for all things sports! In this exciting episode, airing from June 19th to Week 3 of CFL (Canadian Football League) action, we dive deep into the thrilling world of sports!Join us as we dissect the latest CFL highlights, bringing you the most exciting moments from Week 3 of this action-packed football league. From jaw-dropping touchdowns to awe-inspiring interceptions, we've got you covered with expert analysis and comprehensive game breakdowns.Tune in to The HSP for an engaging and informative episode that caters to sports enthusiasts and fans alike. Our knowledgeable hosts and guests bring their expertise to the forefront, delivering engaging discussions, captivating interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.Don't miss out on the excitement! Subscribe to The HSP channel now and hit the notification bell to stay updated with the latest episodes. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or enjoy keeping up with the hottest sports news, The HSP is your go-to destination for all things CFL and beyond. Get ready to be entertained, informed, and inspired by our passionate team of experts.
  1. June 26 – Week 3 Breakdown, The Fallout of the games, Looking ahead to week 4 PLUS the HSP Week 3 Power Ranking Reveal
  2. HSP -June 19 – Week 2 of the CFL, OEL Buyout and the Hughes Sports CFL Power Rankings
  3. HSP – June 12th – Breaking Down Week 1 of the CFL Season Plus a Rant about Leaving the Stadium Early.
  4. HSP – Jun 5th 2023 – Arland Bruce III on his career, legacy, and what is next
  5. HSP – May 29th 2023 – Canucks Cap Issues, CFL Pre-Season and Arturs Silovs is the man!!!

Jake Hughes

Hello there! I'm Jake Hughes, a passionate sports enthusiast based in vibrant Calgary, Alberta. Despite being in the heart of Flames territory, my loyalty lies with the Canucks, and you'll often find me proudly representing my team wherever I go. Professionally, I wear multiple hats in the sports world. As a co-host of the Hughes Sports Podcast, I dive deep into the world of sports, providing insightful analysis, engaging discussions, and interviews with prominent athletes and industry experts. I love exploring different aspects of sports and sharing my knowledge and opinions with our loyal listeners. In addition to podcasting, I'm also a proud contributor to HughesSports.ca a leading sports website. Through my articles, I offer a unique perspective on the latest happenings in the sports industry, with a particular focus on the Canucks. From game recaps and player profiles to trade rumors and playoff predictions, I strive to keep readers informed and entertained. Furthermore, I'm excited to announce my contributions to InsideTheRink.com, a premier hockey website known for its comprehensive coverage of the NHL. Through my articles on InsideTheRink.com, I delve into the intricacies of the game, provide in-depth analysis of teams and players, and share my insights on the evolving dynamics of the hockey landscape. It's a privilege to be a part of such a respected platform, and I look forward to connecting with more hockey fans through this exciting opportunity.

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