Virtanen, 20, has appeared in 10 games with the Canucks (0-1-1) and in two games with the Comets this season. In his debut NHL season in 2015.16, Virtanen appeared in 55 games for Vancouver where he collected 13 points (7-6-13) and ranked second on the team in hits with 128. He also appeared in two games for Utica on a conditioning stint and represented Canada at the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship.

A native of Abbotsford, BC, the 6-1, 226-pound forward was selected by Vancouver in the first round, 6th overall, in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.