Vancouver Canucks Add Versatile Forward Bennett Schimek to Organization
The Vancouver Canucks have bolstered their organizational depth with the signing of forward Bennett Schimek to a one-year contract with their American Hockey League affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks, for the 2026-27 season. The 22-year-old right-shot winger, who recently completed his senior season with the Arizona State University Sun Devils in the NCAA, will also join Abbotsford on a professional tryout for the remainder of the current campaign.
Schimek's Collegiate Career and Skillset
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 187 pounds, Schimek demonstrated significant offensive prowess during his time at Arizona State University. He ranked No. 13 in scoring across the NCAA this season, accumulating 43 points with 13 goals, despite ASU finishing with a record of 14-21-1. His performance has drawn attention from multiple NHL teams, according to his college coach.
Greg Powers, head coach of the Arizona State Sun Devils, praised Schimek's versatility, describing him as a "Swiss Army knife in every sense of the phrase." Powers highlighted Schimek's ability to adapt to various roles, noting, "He has the IQ and playmaking ability to complement elite players, but also the grit to be a responsible checker in bottom-lineup positions." Schimek served as team captain at ASU and was a key contributor on both penalty kill and power play units.
Background and Path to Professional Hockey
Hailing from Mendota Heights, Minnesota, Schimek's hockey journey includes two seasons at Providence College before transferring to Arizona State University for his final years of eligibility. Prior to college, he played in the United States Hockey League with the Omaha Lancers and Sioux City Musketeers. Despite being ranked No. 121 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting for the 2021 draft, Schimek went undrafted.
While some scouts have questioned his skating mechanics, Coach Powers defended his former player's abilities, stating, "His skating may not be aesthetically pleasing to some, but he does not lose races. He knows how to use his body to create separation, and his feet are good enough to get the job done effectively."
Immediate Plans and Organizational Fit
Schimek is set to join the Abbotsford Canucks immediately, with the team having 13 regular-season games remaining, starting with a matchup against the Henderson Silver Knights at Rogers Forum. Abbotsford currently holds a record of 22-31-3-3. The Canucks organization views Schimek as a valuable addition due to his versatility, character, and proven scoring ability at the collegiate level.
This signing represents Vancouver's ongoing efforts to develop talent through their AHL affiliate, with Schimek poised to contribute both offensively and defensively as he transitions to professional hockey.
