Vancouver to try out Gustafsson

Former University of Maine winger Marcus Gustafsson, who scored the game-winning goal in Maine’s 3-2 overtime win over New Hampshire in the NCAA Championship game in April, will get the opportunity to earn a pro contract.

Gustafsson signed an amateur tryout contract with the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks this week and he will leave for their rookie camp on Sept. 1.

The rookie camp lasts three days and leads into the Canucks’ training camp.

If Gustafsson impresses the Vancouver brass, he will earn a contract in their organization.

Gustafsson has been buoyed by his three-game stint in the AHL for Syracuse last spring which saw him score four goals. Syracuse is Vancouver’s top minor league affiliate.

“I’m more suited to the pro style because I’m not a fast skater. The pro game is more controlled. When I played for Syracuse, I got a lot of ice time and the puck went in the net for me. I got a lot of confidence,” said the 25-year-old Gustafsson.

“If I play like I did in Syracuse, my chances are good,” added Gustafsson.

Gustafsson said other teams expressed interest in him but Vancouver gave him the best deal and will provide him with the best chance to obtain a contract.

“The coach I played for in Syracuse, Jack McIlhargey, is now an assistant coach with Vancouver. I’ve talked to him a couple of times this summer and he told me he thought this was a good opportunity for me,” said the 6-foot, 193-pound Gustafsson, who has been working out regularly and intends to skate in Portland this weekend.