Tom Willander Assumes Heavy Minutes on Vancouver Blue Line

Defenceman Tom Willander quickly established himself in Vancouver after playing just five AHL games with Abbotsford following his departure from Boston University. The 2023 first-round pick made his NHL debut in October 2025 and expanded his role to average over 20 minutes per game by the start of the 2026-27 season. Willander continues to adapt to the physical demands of the NHL while building confidence in key situations.