Vancouver Canucks sign Paul Cotter in free agency

The Vancouver Canucks have made their first signing of free agency.

Paul Cotter has left the New Jersey Devils to sign a one-year contract with the Canucks worth $2.15 million. A 6-foot-2, 213-pound left winger, Cotter is coming off a disappointing season in New Jersey, scoring just 15 points (9-6-15) in 79 games. One year earlier, the Canton, Michigan native scored a career-high 16 goals.

The 26-year-old forward has four years of NHL experience, playing two seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights before he was traded to the Devils.

“Paul is a versatile forward with a good combination of size and speed,” said Canucks GM Ryan Johnson. “We really like the way he competes on the ice, and he will be a good addition to our bottom six. Paul’s profile is a positive for our group, and our coaching staff are excited to work with him to help him improve his game.”

Klimovich signs with the Flyers

Former second-round draft pick Danila Klimovich, who the Canucks did not extend a qualifying offer to, has a new home. The 23-year-old native of Belarus has signed with the Philadelphia Flyers, according to David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period.