The Vancouver Canucks have invited Ty Halaburda, Deagan McMillan, Cooper Walker, Joe Arntsen, and Jonathan Lemieux to join their prospects for the 2024 Young Stars Classic. This annual tournament, set to begin this weekend, will feature these five players alongside 20 other prospects already in the Canucks’ system.
Notably, the roster includes top prospect Jonathan Lekkerimäki and 2024 draft picks Riley Patterson, Anthony Romani, Parker Alcos, and Basile Sansonnens.
These five invitees, all undrafted and unsigned, present an opportunity for the Canucks to bolster their talent pool without using draft picks or trade assets. Though most of these players are unsigned for a reason, there’s always potential for one to prove their worth, as past invitees like Troy Stecher have done.
Here’s a closer look at the five invitees:
Joe Arntsen (Defence)
Arntsen, 21, is a 6’3″ left-shot defenseman from Swift Current, SK, Canada. He recently completed his WHL career with the Lethbridge Hurricanes, serving as captain for three seasons. Known for his physicality and toughness, Arntsen also contributes offensively. Despite concerns about his mobility and puckhandling as he transitions to professional hockey, his leadership and work ethic make him a player to watch in Abbotsford.
Ty Halaburda (Centre)
Halaburda, a 19-year-old from Victoria, BC, brings speed, tenacity, and strong forechecking skills. Playing for the Vancouver Giants, he recorded 66 points in 68 games last season. His relentless effort and defensive responsibility could potentially earn him a spot in a bottom-six role, particularly as a penalty killer. However, his offensive game needs further development to thrive at higher levels.
Jonathan Lemieux (Goaltender)
Lemieux, 23, has an AHL contract with Abbotsford after a strong season in the ECHL with the Kalamazoo Wings. Standing 6’1″, Lemieux posted a .911 save percentage last season and backed up during the AHL playoffs after injuries higher up the Canucks’ goalie depth chart. While there are more established goaltenders ahead of him, his progression shows he may have potential to reach the NHL.
Deagan McMillan (Right Wing)
McMillan, a 19-year-old from Vernon, BC, has been noted for his playmaking and defensive abilities but struggles with skating, which limits his effectiveness. His positioning and passing make him a valuable player, but unless his skating improves, it could hinder his chances of making the NHL. After a challenging post-draft year, McMillan’s development will be crucial.
Cooper Walker (Centre)
Walker, 22, has an AHL contract with Abbotsford, though he spent most of last season in the ECHL. The son of former Canuck Scott Walker, he brings a detailed, tenacious two-way game but lacks offensive upside. Walker’s main goal is to secure a full-time spot in the AHL.
Overall, these invitees offer potential for the Canucks to strengthen their depth without risking significant assets.
