Vancouver Canucks Terminate Contract with Vitali Kravtsov
The Vancouver Canucks have ended their relationship with winger Vitali Kravtsov. General manager Patrik Allvin announced on Tuesday that the 25-year-old Russian forward was placed on unconditional waivers to terminate his contract.
Player Background and Recent Performance
Kravtsov arrived at the Canucks' training camp in Penticton, B.C., before being assigned to the team’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks. There, he recorded one goal and three assists in 10 games.
The Canucks acquired Kravtsov from the New York Rangers in February 2023. However, he spent the majority of the past two seasons playing for Traktor Chelyabinsk in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
"The six-foot-three, 186-pound forward scored one goal and provided one assist across 16 games during the 2022-23 season."
During the 2024-25 season, Kravtsov tallied 27 goals and 31 assists in 66 games for Chelyabinsk, showcasing his offensive skills.
Summary
Despite promising statistics in the KHL, Kravtsov and the Canucks have parted ways after brief play in the AHL.
Author's note: The Canucks' decision reflects a shift away from Kravtsov after his limited impact in North America and a stronger track record in the KHL.