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Vancouver Canucks: 5 European UFA Skaters to Target

By Janik Beichler

May 9, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; A view of a net and pucks on the ice during warmups prior to the game of the San Jose Sharks against the Nashville Predators in game six of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bridgestone Arena. The Predators won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
May 9, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; A view of a net and pucks on the ice during warmups prior to the game of the San Jose Sharks against the Nashville Predators in game six of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bridgestone Arena. The Predators won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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D Andreas Borgman — HV71, SHL

Swedish defenceman Andreas Borgman has been drawing NHL interest for a while now, and the 2016-17 only made him more interesting. The 21-year-old was never drafted, but his development curve is pointing straight upward.

A strong skater with an offensive mindset, Borgman is exactly the kind of player NHL coaches covet. Plus, with guys like Erik Karlsson, Victor Hedman and Oliver Ekman-Larsson already in the league, clubs know that Sweden can develop skilled blue-liners.

Here’s Borgman’s scouting report from Elite Prospects:

"Borgman combines speed, offensive skills and a good physical game. He has good timing in his hits and will become even better with gained strength and experience. Likes to join the rush. (EP, 2013)"

In 2016-17, Borgman took the next step in his career, moving up to the top-tier SHL. With HV71, he recorded five goals and 15 points in 45 games. In addition, Borgman made his debut for Sweden’s men’s national team.

The Canucks have done good work building up a new defensive core, and the six-foot, 205-pound Borgman could be the next great addition.

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