Canucks and free agency: Interesting depth options for Patrik Allvin listed
Should the Canucks look to add depth pieces to fight for a spot in training camp?
It's the time of the offseason when the remaining free agents are most likely beginning to panic as roster spots dwindle and their chances of having to go overseas to play increase. The Canucks currently have little to no cap space ($15,833). However, with Tucker Poolman likely going on LTIR again, they will have $2.5 million to work with.
Here is how the Canucks' projected lineup is looking as of now:
Extra forwards: Podkolzin, Di Giuseppe
Extra defensemen: Juulsen, Friedman
Additionally, the Canucks have a few legitimate prospects looking to squeeze their way onto the big club. However, they will most likely start in Abbotsford and have to work their way up.
Here's what the remaining free agency pool looks like:
It's clear the Canucks don't need to add any more high-end skill forwards, but three forwards who look like good additions and would be Rick Tocchet-style players are Cal Clutterbuck, Matt Martin, and Nick Cousins. One of these three could add some grit and veteran leadership to the Canucks' 4th line.
On the defensive side, I think it is crucial that the Canucks have depth in case the back-to-back punch of Tyler Myers and Vincent Desharnais doesn't work out. Justin Schultz, Tyson Barrie, and Kevin Shattenkirk stand out as great candidates.
These players are all veterans in the NHL and most likely will not be guaranteed a spot on the NHL team. Some veteran players don't want to step foot back in the AHL after spending over a decade in the NHL. However, the fact that the AHL team is located so close is a plus for players with families, as they don't have to move if called up or down, which is a bonus for the Canucks.
Source: Daily Faceoff
Canucks projected line combinations
Source: PuckPedia
NHL free agents
| POLL | ||
What position do you think the Canucks should look to add depth in free agency? | ||
| Forward | 15 | 8.1 % |
| Defense | 125 | 67.6 % |
| Prospects. No more free agents. | 45 | 24.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
