Discover the Ascendancy of Conor Garland: Master of Edge Work Skills
Conor Garland has steadily made a name for himself in the NHL. Despite being overlooked during the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, he proved his worth as a potent scorer. Selected in the fifth round by the Arizona Coyotes in 2015, Garland shined in the QMJHL, leading scoring with 129 points in just 67 games and achieving 25 points in 16 playoff matches.
Rise to Prominence
Garland’s standout performance in the 2014-2015 season earned him the QMJHL MVP award and a spot on the First All-Star team. He continued to impress in the following season, compiling 128 points in 62 regular-season games. However, despite his success, Garland spent two and a half seasons in the AHL with the Tucson Roadrunners.
His hard work finally paid off during the 2018-2019 NHL season when he made his debut with the Coyotes. Under the guidance of coach Rick Tocchet, he swiftly became known for his scoring ability, accumulating 96 points over 164 games with the team.
Transition to Vancouver Canucks
In 2021, Garland’s rights were traded to the Vancouver Canucks, where he signed a lucrative five-year, $24.75 million contract. Since joining the Canucks, he has consistently performed at a high level, never finishing a season with fewer than 46 points. He received a six-year, $36 million contract extension before the 2025-2026 season.
Current Season Highlights
This current season has seen Garland average a career-high in minutes, recently leading the team with nine points in just nine games. Playing alongside stars such as Elias Pettersson and Evander Kane, he has also taken a prominent role on the first power play unit, sharing ice time with Quinn Hughes.
Defensive Skills and Edge Work
Garland showcases exceptional skills in both offensive and defensive play. He ranks second on the team in shots on goal with 24, maintaining a strong average of over two shots per game. His impressive career Corsi For percentage stands at 56.2%, highlighting his ability to drive scoring chances.
- Second among Canucks forwards in defensive zone starts: 23.1%
- Leads Canucks forwards with 29 minutes of penalty-kill ice time
- Key player in top penalty kill pairings
One aspect that sets Garland apart is his remarkable edge work. Frequently maneuvering away from larger defenders, he utilizes his agility to maintain puck possession. This skill was honed through training with former Olympic figure skater Michael Botticelli.
Conor Garland’s journey from being an overlooked draft pick to a key player for the Vancouver Canucks emphasizes his tenacity and skill. He continues to contribute significantly to his team’s success while showcasing his mastery of edge work and two-way gameplay.
