Did The Canucks Find The Next Kiefer Sherwood?

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When free agency opened on July 1st, the Vancouver Canucks signed 26-year-old forward Paul Cotter to a one-year, $2.15 million contract. At the time, the signing of a fourth-line grinder whose highest point total in a season is 25, didn’t turn heads amongst fans. However, we’re just four games into the season and Cotter leads the NHL in goals. How did he get here?

Born and raised in Canton, Michigan, Cotter went through the USHL and OHL before being drafted 115th overall by the Vegas Golden Knights in 2018. During his tenure in Vegas, he developed into a versatile, high energy winger and was part of the 2023 Golden Knights team that lifted the Stanley Cup. Due to being on a team as good as Vegas he was often overlooked and struggled to make the starting lineup. 

After three seasons in Vegas, a trade sent him to the New Jersey Devils in 2024. In his first season with the Devils, Cotter proved that he truly belongs in the NHL, logging 192 hits in 79 games while adding 16 goals and bottom-six depth. The following season Cotter’s play unfortunately mirrored his team’s. His goal and point totals would decrease by seven from the season prior and the Devils would miss the playoffs. Despite the poor season, Vancouver believed that Cotter was more of the player from two seasons ago and not the last. 

For a Canucks team looking to establish a new culture both on and off the ice, Cotter’s physical, relentless play, as well as positive personality fit seamlessly into the bottom six. He can play either wing or center, power play, kills penalties and clear space for skill players.

“Paul is a versatile forward with a good combination of size and speed. Adding his edge and competitive drive helps build the identity we want throughout our lineup.” — Ryan Johnson, Canucks General Manager

Cotter immediately made his presence felt for the Canucks, delivering a two-goal performance including the overtime winner in his regular-season debut. And since has scored two more goals, putting him tied for first for goals scored. 

 

 

Now that the eyes of Canucks fans lie more heavily on Cotter, the discussion around trading him will grow. Much like Kiefer Sherwood last season, The Canucks have one of the most exciting bottom six players on an expiring contract. It only took until January for the Canucks to trade Sherwood to the Sharks for two 2nd round picks. If Cotter is able to keep producing it’s more than fair to say he will net a larger return come the trade deadline in March.

As the Canucks continue to rebuild, it’s important that the players entering into the locker room leave it a better place. Cotter has clearly been a positive presence to the team on and off the ice and is being rewarded on the stat sheet night after night. For a player who has had an unconventional road to the NHL, he could find himself being one of the more sought after players come the trade deadline.