Feb 4, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Colorado Avalanche forward Juuso Parssinen (16) and Vancouver Canucks forward Linus Karlsson (94) skate after the loose puck in the third period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

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Canucks Recall Linus Karlsson on Emergency Basis

Vancouver calls up forward Linus Karlsson under emergency conditions as they deal with roster challenges ahead of their next matchup.

The Vancouver Canucks have recalled forward Linus Karlsson from their AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks, under emergency conditions. This move comes as both Filip Chytil and Conor Garland are expected to miss tonight’s game against the Winnipeg Jets. Chytil remains in concussion protocol, while Garland, who played in Sunday’s game without issue, is now a game-time decision due to an undisclosed injury, according to head coach Rick Tocchet.

Karlsson, who recently signed a one-year extension, will step in to complete Vancouver’s forward lineup. The 25-year-old Swede is set to skate on the third line alongside Drew O’Connor and Teddy Blueger. Having played nine NHL games this season, Karlsson has logged his first career goal and averaged just under 10 minutes of ice time per game. However, this will be his first NHL appearance since February 4.

How Swede it is!

Karlsson: "I come from a small town, so I never got the chance to see any professional hockey until I was probably 16 or 17. I think it’s a great thing that the NHL does."

Read more: https://t.co/9NgjGDayGL pic.twitter.com/xTPYYpEgIp
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) March 18, 2025

While Karlsson continues to develop at the NHL level, he has been a standout performer in the AHL. He ranks among the league’s top scorers with 34 points (21 goals, 13 assists) in 30 games, trailing only seasoned AHL veterans Vinnie Hinostroza and Andrew Poturalski in points per game. His 21 goals also place him 15th in the league.

For now, Karlsson remains waiver-exempt, meaning he can be moved between the NHL and AHL without risk of being claimed by another team. However, that changes next season. If he doesn’t secure a spot on Vancouver’s opening night roster in 2025-26, he must clear waivers before returning to Abbotsford.

With tonight’s game against Winnipeg on the horizon, Karlsson has a golden opportunity to make his mark once again at the NHL level.

Image Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Linus Karlsson

NHL

Vancouver Canucks

Anamika Shrivastava

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