Abbotsford Canucks Sign Braden Birnie to PTO

24-year-old forward joins AHL team on Professional Tryout agreement

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:11am

A cubist, geometric painting in navy blue, green, and white, depicting the dynamic movement and energy of a hockey player in an abstract, fragmented style.The Abbotsford Canucks' signing of Braden Birnie to a PTO agreement represents an opportunity for the young forward to showcase his skills and potentially earn a spot on the team's roster.Fairbanks Today

The Abbotsford Canucks have signed forward Braden Birnie to a Professional Tryout (PTO) agreement, adding the 24-year-old to their roster on a short-term deal. Birnie, who previously played for the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the ECHL's Rapid City Rush, will now have the opportunity to showcase his skills at the AHL level with the Canucks.

Why it matters

PTOs are a common strategy in professional hockey, allowing teams to evaluate players without committing to a long-term contract. Birnie's signing could provide depth and potential upside for the Abbotsford Canucks as they look to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

The details

Under the PTO agreement, Birnie will join the Abbotsford Canucks and participate in practices and games, giving the team a chance to assess his fit and performance at the AHL level. If he impresses during his tryout, the Canucks could then offer him a standard contract to join the team.

  • Braden Birnie signed the PTO agreement on April 10, 2026.

The players

Braden Birnie

A 24-year-old forward who previously played for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks and the ECHL's Rapid City Rush.

Abbotsford Canucks

The AHL affiliate of the NHL's Vancouver Canucks, based in Abbotsford, British Columbia.

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What they’re saying

“Braden Birnie is a talented young player, and we're excited to have him join our team on a PTO. This is a great opportunity for him to showcase his skills and potentially earn a spot on our roster.”

— Ryan Johnson, General Manager, Abbotsford Canucks

What’s next

If Braden Birnie impresses during his PTO, the Abbotsford Canucks could offer him a standard contract to join the team for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Abbotsford Canucks' decision to sign Braden Birnie to a PTO agreement demonstrates their commitment to exploring new talent and building a competitive roster. This move could pay dividends if Birnie is able to translate his past success to the AHL level.