Insider confirms the Canucks' intentions regarding Filip Hronek

One of the more extensive discussions that'll need to be had will be regarding pending restricted free agent defenceman Filip Hronek, who had an intense few months in his first entire season with the Vancouver Canucks before seeing his production dip significantly.

In the final 19 regular season games in March and April, Hronek only recorded four assists before two points in 13 games during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The production dip in Hronek's game in the latter part of the season is a little bit concerning, but he's growing as a player and, at 26 years old, could be a big piece of the Canucks' defensive core for years to come.

Filip Hronek's camp is seeking a pretty big payday this summer and hopes to get a deal with an average annual value of $8 million. However, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman says that the Canucks are not wanting to go that high on Hronek's contract, especially considering that he wasn't great in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Hronek, a native of Hradec Kralove, Czechia, appeared in 81 games for the Vancouver Canucks this season, putting up 48 points (five goals, 43 assists), 38 penalty minutes and was a plus-33. His 48 points had him 21st among all National Hockey League defencemen.

It'll be interesting to see what Patrik Allvin decides to do here. Hronek could be a pivotal piece to the defensive core, but $8 million per season is a steep price, and it's unlikely that he'll accept his qualifying offer of $5.28 million.

How much do you think the Canucks should pay Filip Hronek on his next contract? Let us know what you think in the poll below.