Longtime defenceman Edler returns to Canucks in development role

Former Vancouver Canucks player Alexander Edler enters the ice for a ceremonial face off before an NHL hockey game between the Vancouver Canucks and the Philadelphia Flyers in Vancouver, on Friday, October 11, 2024. (Ethan Cairns / The Canadian Press)

VANCOUVER — Alex Edler, a steady member of the Vancouver Canucks’ defence for 15 seasons during his playing career, is joining the NHL team’s player development department.

Canucks general manager Ryan Johnson announced the move Thursday and said Edler will work closely with prospects throughout the organization

Edler participated in the team’s recent Development Camp in Abbotsford, B.C.

Edler was drafted 91st overall by Vancouver in 2004 and had 99 goals and 310 assists over 925 games with the club.

He added eight goals and 32 assists in 93 playoff games.

Edler spent his last two seasons with the Los Angeles Kings before retiring following the 2022-23 season.

The 40-year-old from Ostersund, Sweden, played a year for the Western Hockey League’s Kelowna Rockets after being drafted by the Canucks, putting up 53 points in 62 games in the 2005-06 season.

“Alex knows first-hand what it means to be a Vancouver Canuck,” Johnson said in a release.

“His past experience in the NHL will really help in our players development, he understands the demands of what it takes to be a good pro both on and off the ice, while his skill set and communication will be a big plus when it comes to coaching and mentoring our prospects.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 16, 2026.