Strategic Depth and Reunion
The Vancouver Canucks announced on July 1, 2026, the signing of forward Akil Thomas to a one-year, two-way contract. The move is designed to enhance the organization’s depth as the team prepares for the upcoming NHL campaign.
Thomas joins the Canucks after a stint with the Springfield Thunderbirds, having been traded to the St. Louis Blues organization in December 2025. His transition to Vancouver reunites him with Abbotsford Canucks General Manager Richard Seeley, who previously managed Thomas during his tenure with the Ontario Reign in the AHL. This existing familiarity is expected to play a significant role in his integration into the Canucks’ system.
Professional Background
Drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Kings in 2018, Thomas spent nearly seven years within the Kings organization. His most productive AHL season came in 2023-24, where he recorded a career-high 46 points, including 22 goals and 24 assists, across 64 games. He made his NHL debut in April 2024 against the Winnipeg Jets, scoring his first career goal shortly thereafter against the San Jose Sharks.
During the 2025-26 season, Thomas split his time between Ontario and Springfield, recording nine goals and 13 assists in 39 AHL appearances. While the two-way nature of his new contract suggests he will compete for an NHL roster spot, he remains a candidate to provide consistent offensive production for the Abbotsford Canucks.