Vancouver, BC -- (Sports Network) - The Vancouver Canucks signed defenseman Alex Edler to a four-year contract extension on Friday.

Entering his third season in the NHL, all with Vancouver, the 22-year-old has nine goals and 14 assists along with a plus-11 in 98 games. He posted career- highs in games (75), goals (eight) and assists (12) last season.

"Alex is a gifted puck-moving defenseman who sees the ice extremely well for such a young player," said Vancouver general manager Mike Gillis. "He has made great strides in his career and we look forward to further growth and development in his game."

Financial terms of the deal, which will keep him in Vancouver through the 2012-13 season, were not disclosed.