Alexander Edler and the Canucks are expected to begin discussions on a contract extension soon, according to assistant GM Laurence Gilman. The 2012-13 campaign is the final year of Edler's current deal and it will earn him $3.25 million. He will probably be seeking a hefty raise, as he is presently the team's fifth-highest paid blueliner behind Kevin Bieksa and Jason Garrison, who both make $4.6 million per season, as well as Dan Hamhuis ($4.5 million) and Keith Ballard ($4.2 million). Edler led the team's defense corps with 11 goals and 49 points in 82 games last season.