Markstrom is happy the Canucks are showing their belief in his abilities

Markstrom feels his run with the AHL Comets last season has him in good shape for the upcoming year

(NEWS 1130) SUNRISE, FLA – It was certainly a busy day for the Vancouver Canucks on Day 2 of the NHL Entry Draft in Florida. Things kicked off with the team trading popular goaltender Eddie Lack to the Carolina Hurricanes for a pair of draft picks. Vancouver received a 7th round pick in next year’s draft, along with a third rounder the team used Saturday on defenceman Guillaume Brisebois from Acadie-Bathurst of the QMJHL.

With the departure of Lack, Jacob Markstrom now becomes the man to take the spot behind Ryan Miller on the Canucks depth chart. Markstrom is home in Sweeden following a stellar season with the AHL’s Utica Comets.

“It’s a crazy time of year.” Markstrom said this morning.

“Eddie told me himself about the trade. He texted me. It feels great to see that the Vancouver Canucks organization has confidence in me. That’s probably the biggest thing they could show – that they believe in me. I can’t wait for next year.” Markstrom added.

Much has been made of Markstrom’s work in the AHL, and he feels the run to the Calder Cup Final with the Comets can help him in Vancouver next season.

“My confidence level is really high. Especially in big games, knowing you can be a difference maker. For a goalie, that’s really good to know you can play in big games and make a difference when it comes down to it.”

“I feel really good about this draft. I think we have at least three or four NHL players out of this group.” Canucks General Manager Jim Benning said after things wrapped up on the draft floor.

Benning opened up on Brisebois, the young player with perhaps extra pressure that comes from being moved essentially for Lack.

“He’s the captain of his team as a 17 year old. He has strong leadership qualities. He’s a good two way defenceman, he’s a good skater. He can jump up in the play. He’s not going to be a point producer, but he’s a good solid two way defenceman.” Benning said.

(Click here to see the rest of the Canucks haul at the 2015 NHL Entry Draft)