Canucks Sign Bernier to Two-Year Extension

The Vancouver Canucks have announced that they have signed right wing Steve Bernier to a two-year contract extension worth $4 million. He would have been a restricted free agent on July 1. The Canucks acquired Bernier from the Buffalo Sabres last summer for a 3rd round pick in this year's draft and a 2nd round pick in 2010. In 81 games this past season, Bernier scored 15 goals and 17 assist for 32 points. His 32 points in 2008-09 tied his career points total in 2007-08. In addition to playing with the Canucks and Sabres, he has also played with the San Jose Sharks. This is a good signing for the Canucks as Bernier has plenty of scoring and offensive potential. His size and power play skills make him an affordable signing for the team over the next two years. Bernier's contract expires during the first year he will eligible for unrestricted free agency, so if his offensive game doesn't improve, the Canucks can just let him go. However, if he continues to improve over the next two seasons, expect to see Bernier in a Canucks uniform for a while.