Canucks re-sign Horvat

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Canucks signed restricted free agent Bo Horvat to a $33-million, six-year contract extension Friday.

The 22-year-old centre led the lowly Canucks with 52 points (20 goals, 32 assists) last season to become the first player not named Daniel or Henrik Sedin to top that category since 2006.

Horvat’s new deal, which kicks in immediately, has an average annual value of $5,500,000, making him the fourth-highest paid player on the team behind the Sedin twins and winger Loui Eriksson.

“Bo has quickly become a foundational player on our team and we’re thrilled for him to be a part of what we’re building here long term,” Canucks general manager Jim Benning said in a release. “His commitment and work ethic have helped his game improve each season. He’s already a leader on our team and a young player fans can be excited to watch for years to come.”

A native of Rodney, Ont., southwest of London, Horvat has steadily improved over his first three National Hockey League seasons. He has 49 goals and 68 assists for 117 points over 231 career games.

“It’s a great feeling to be able to continue my career for six more seasons in Vancouver and I’m grateful to the Aquilini family and Canucks management group for making this possible,” said Horvat. “Since being drafted by the Canucks, I have been welcomed by fans with open arms.”