Cootes' NHL Future in Training Camp | NHL News

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 3, 2026 · 1m

The Canucks are weighing a big call on rising star Braeden Cootes—fast, skilled, but not yet NHL-ready. With new roster flexibility, they can send him to Abbotsford instead of junior, letting him develop without rushing. But if he dazzles in camp, he’ll likely earn a real role—not just fourth-line minutes—but possibly top-nine ice time. An intriguing twist? Pairing him with Elias Pettersson could unlock both players’ potential: Pettersson gets more offense, Cootes gets mentorship and faster growth. Training camp will decide whether Cootes stays in the minors or steps into the spotlight—and…