Nikita Tolopilo

July 2025 –  The Vancouver Canucks re-signed Tolopilo to a two-year, two-way contract worth $1,555,000 that carries a cap hit of $775,000 and expires at the end of the 2026-27 season. Vancouver has Kevin Lankinen and Thatcher Demko signed long-term contracts in the NHL, and Arturs Silovs traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Tolopilo will have the opportunity to compete for the starting goaltender position in the American Hockey League with the Abbotsford Canucks throughout this contract. If Tolopilo performs well and takes the next step, he could become the Canucks’ top goaltender for a call-up if one of their NHL goalies gets injured. Mark Henry

January 2025 – Tolopilo’s second season in North America has gone similarly to last year. With Arturs Silovs bouncing between Abbotsford and Vancouver, Tolopilo has started a majority of Abbotsford’s games. In 19 appearances, he’s sporting a 2.65 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage. Tolopilo will look to finish the season strong and consistent and lead Abbotsford on a deep playoff run. Nick Orr

January 2024 – So far, this has been a great first season in North America for Tolopilo. In 15 games, he boasts a 2.94 goals-against average and a .902 save percentage. If the undrafted goaltender can maintain this level of play, the Canucks could have a promising gem in their hands. Cedrick Blais-Turcotte

April 2023 – The Canucks have bolstered their depth in a key position, signing undrafted goaltender, Nikita Tolopilo. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-6, Tolopilo had a breakout season in the Allsvenskan, Sweden’s second-tier professional hockey league, with a stellar .924 save percentage and a 28-17-0 record. Despite his size, Tolopilo faces challenges in closing gaps and can be vulnerable to shots under the arms or through the five-hole. However, his scouting report highlights his strengths in taking away the bottom of the net, post integration, explosive movement off the posts, and defending against rush chances. Tolopilo’s agent indicates that he will be heading to North America next season, likely joining the Abbotsford Canucks in the AHL. Fringe NHL starter looks to be a solid ceiling. Dave Hall