"We have become aware of the concerning allegations made about Jake Virtanen," the Canucks said in a statement. "Our organization does not accept sexual misconduct of any kind and the claims as reported are being treated very seriously by us.
"We have engaged external expertise to assist in an independent investigation and we have placed the player on leave as we await more information."
The 24-year-old forward is in his sixth NHL season, all with the Canucks, who selected him with the No. 6 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft. Virtanen has scored five goals in 38 games this season.
"We are aware of the serious allegations and will have no comment until the results of the independent investigation are complete," an NHL spokesperson said.
