VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- The Canucks acquired right wing Steve Bernier from the Buffalo Sabres on Friday for a third-round pick in the 2009 NHL Draft and a second-round selection in 2010.
Bernier was obtained by Buffalo at the trade deadline in February as part of the deal that sent All-Star defenseman Brian Campbell to San Jose. Bernier has averaged 15 goals in 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.
Also Friday, the Sabres acquired defenseman Craig Rivet and a seventh-round draft pick from San Jose for a pair of second-round choices.
The 33-year-old Rivet had five goals and 35 points in 74 games for the Sharks last season. In 744 career games with Montreal and San Jose, he has 45 goals and 194 points.
Bernier learned about the deal while playing golf in his native Quebec City.
"When I got the call I was shocked," Bernier said during a conference call while still on the golf course. "Right now, the only thing I am thinking about is getting in shape and having a chance to improve myself with the Vancouver Canucks."
The 23-year-old Bernier had 16 goals and 32 points in 76 games with San Jose and Buffalo last season. He was 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. He reported to 2006 training camp out of shape, then underachieved last season before being traded.
