With the 2022-23 season over, the Vancouver Canucks held their end-of-season media availability. On April 15, players from the organization spoke to the media, while general manager (GM) Patrik Allvin and head coach Rick Tocchet spoke on April 17. Each member reflected on the 2022-23 season and discussed what’s next for the organization and themselves.
In this edition of the Canucks’ News & Rumors, Allvin discussed the team’s plans for the offseason. Meanwhile, Tanner Pearson talked about his hand injury. Also, Elias Pettersson and the GM discussed potential contract extension talks this offseason.
Allvin on Offseason Moves
Allvin said there will be changes to create cap space this off-season. One of the ways to create space discussed this season has been buyouts. Although the Canucks have a few buyout candidates this offseason, Allvin said he prefers not to use any buyouts this summer.
“I don’t want to use buyouts if we don’t have to, I don’t want to use buyouts if it’s going to effect us down the line when we could be a contending team. My intention is not to use buyouts.”
Related: Canucks: Third-Line Centres to Target in Free Agency
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In terms of adding to the team, the Canucks will look at a third-line centre. Allvin said they are discussing whether they have one internally or if they need to go out and find one. Tocchet added the third-line centre slot is a pivotal role within the organization, and he wants someone taking faceoffs other than Pettersson and J.T. Miller. Elliotte Friedman mentioned Tampa Bay Lightning forward and restricted free agent (RFA) Ross Colton as a potential target.
Nils Hoglander is set to be a RFA this summer. The 22-year-old spent the second half of the NHL season in the American Hockey League playing in Abbotsford. Many wondered about his future in Vancouver. However, Allvin said the Canucks are excited and believe in the forward. He added they are excited about seeing him play in Abbotsford, and he is a good player. The Canucks will likely keep him, as the organization needs a young forward. Hoglander impressed in Abbotsford, scoring 14 goals and posting 32 points in 45 games.
Pearson suffered a hand injury on Nov. 9. Initially, he underwent surgery soon after the injury and expected to miss four-to-six weeks. Instead, he underwent multiple surgeries, missing the remainder of the…
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