VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) -The Canucks acquired right wing Steve Bernier from the Buffalo Sabres on Friday in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2009 NHL draft, and a second-round selection in 2010.
Bernier was acquired by Buffalo at the trade deadline in late February as part of the deal that sent all-star defenseman Brian Campbell to San Jose. Bernier has averaged 15 goals his first three NHL seasons, and is a restricted free agent without a contract for next season.
“With his right-handed shot he will be a great addition to our top-six forward group and an asset to our power play,” Canucks general manager Mike Gillis said in statement.
The 23-year-old Bernier had 16 goals and 32 points in 76 games with San Jose and Buffalo last season. The 6-foot-2, 225-pound forward was originally selected by the Sharks in the first round, 16th overall, of the 2003 draft. He has 45 goals and 90 points in 177 career games.
Bernier earned a roster spot in San Jose with a strong rookie campaign, but has progressed slower than expected since, reporting to 2006 training camp out of shape, then underachieving last season before being traded.
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