Canucks sign Bernier to extended deal

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 15 (UPI) -- The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Steve Bernier to an undisclosed contract extension.

This season, his first with the NHL franchise, Bernier amassed 32 points (15 goals and 17 assists) in 81 games and was set to become a free agent.

He added four points (two goals and two assists) in 10 playoff games.

He was acquired from Buffalo last summer for a third-round draft pick this year and a second-round pick in 2010.

"Steve Bernier had a career year with Vancouver and we look forward to him building on a successful first season with the club," said General Manager Mike Gillis. "Steve is a talented young player, who will continue to improve and mature over the course of his career."

Bernier, 24, was a first-round pick in the 2003 NHL Draft by the San Jose Sharks and in 258 NHL games with San Jose, Buffalo and the Canucks, he has compiled 122 points (60 goals and 62 assists).