Patrik Allvin and free agency: Canucks linked to six NHL veteran

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Felip Gosselin
July 18, 2024 (8:22 PM)

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Could the Canucks attempt to replicate the success they found by signing Pius Suter last August once again this summer? They're certainly considering it, although it doesn't seem like team leadership sees a player of comparable quality still available on the open market.

A more minor deal � below the amount the team could bury in the NHL without a cap charge � is the more likely route for Vancouver. Still, even a more modest addition isn't assured, given the Canucks' focus on internal competition and maximizing their cap flexibility for big-game shopping in-season. Thomas Drance addressed the situation and linked the Canucks to six players who could potentially play beyond their contract value.

Tyler Johnson

Tyler Johnson has struggled with injuries and a reduced role but remains productive, scoring at a pace of 42 points per 82 games over the past two seasons. On a value contract, Johnson could bring positional versatility, depth scoring, and championship experience to the Canucks' lineup.

Nick Cousins

Fresh off a Stanley Cup victory, Nick Cousins is known for his pest-like playing style. Cousins has appeared in 32 playoff games with the Florida Panthers over the past two seasons. Despite his controversial past and reputation as one of the league's least popular players, Cousins could provide depth, scoring and versatility in a bottom-six role. Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet is familiar with Cousins from their time together with the Arizona Coyotes.

Sammy Blais

28, Blais is a big, physically assertive fourth-line winger with decent finishing ability. Although his development has plateaued, Blais could be a worthwhile no-risk lottery ticket if the Canucks want to add more size to their forward ranks.

Tyson Barrie

Victoria, B.C., native Tyson Barrie is just one season removed from a 50-plus-point campaign. Despite falling out of favor on a deep Nashville Predators blue line, Barrie could still provide valuable puck-moving abilities. However, his defensive shortcomings and size may not fit well with what head coach Rick Tocchet wants from his blueliners.

Justin Schultz

Justin Schultz, a right-handed defender, has improved his defensive game recently and remains a solid power-play option. Schultz's consistent playoff performance and productivity make it surprising that he remains unsigned. Despite a complicated history with Canucks management, Schultz could be a valuable addition on a reasonable contract.

Oliver Kylington

Oliver Kylington, 27, is a dynamic skater and skilled finesse defenseman who missed the 2022-23 season due to mental health challenges. With the right partner, Kylington has shown solid defensive results and has the potential to be a difference-maker. Whether he fits into Tocchet's defensive scheme is an open question, but his talent and skillset are undeniable.

The Canucks' potential interest in these players highlights their approach to finding value in the late summer free-agent market while maintaining flexibility for future moves.

It'll be interesting to see how things unfold from there; with limited cap space and roster spots, will Allvin opt to add a capable puck-moving defenceman? Or Will he choose to add another forward?

Source: The Athletic

Canucks free-agent targets: 6 mid-summer UFAs to consider as value signings