Vancouver’s management has taken a decisive step in its long‑term rebuild by securing defenseman Zeev Buium on an eight‑year deal worth a $9.38 million cap hit each season. The contract signals the club’s confidence that Buium, a former first‑round pick who has struggled to find a consistent role in the NHL, can become a cornerstone on the blue line and help stabilize a young defensive corps. With the Canucks still reshaping their roster around emerging forwards and a new coaching staff, the lengthy commitment underscores a willingness to invest patience and development time. Analysts will be watching how Buium’s performance and health justify the sizable cap commitment as Vancouver aims to return to playoff contention.

The Vancouver Canucks have locked in one of the foundational pieces of their rebuild by signing defenceman Zeev Buium to an eight-year contract with a cap hit of $9.38 million…