Vancouver Canucks Free Agency: 5 Reasons UFAs Will Sign Here

The Vancouver Canucks have their work cut out for them this off-season following a season full of hardships, including the signing of unrestricted free agents.

Yes, it is true that the Canucks are coming off a less than memorable 2015-16 season. And yes, it is also true that Jim Benning has work cut out for himself this off-season between the upcoming draft, free agency frenzy and solidifying the roster heading towards next season.

The 2015-16 regular season was one that was at times was difficult to watch as a fan, but it was also one that was more geared towards development while providing glimpses of hope for the future.

The aim for the 2016-17 season is to put the focus on developing with the drive to win on a nightly basis. The veterans will look to step up and inspire each and every young player on the bench with that desire to win and put their best game on the ice every night.

Today we are going to look at the positives with five reasons why unrestricted free agents will be lured to sign with Vancouver over the summer.

Next: Reason #5: Great City

Reason #5: Vancouver is a beautiful city

The motivation to sign with any given team often involves debating the pros and cons of each city: livability, playing atmosphere, schools, outdoor experiences, etc.

Vancouver checks a lot of those boxes on the ‘choosing a city of consideration to live here’ list. The city offers various housing options, the fans and media are passionate about this team and the game. The city offers an array of schools and education programs for their families and the outdoor experiences are countless.

In 2010, the hockey world and athletes from around the globe were given a glimpse of how much hockey means to Vancouver when the city hosted the Winter Olympics. The atmosphere in Rogers Arena was electric and gave the entire city an electric vibe from the inside out.

In 2011, the Canucks passion was felt all around Vancouver as they took this city on an incredible ride that came within one game of a Stanley Cup victory.

There is something almost magical when an entire city and/or province can be captivated by this game that unites us all. The opportunity to be a part of creating that atmosphere within a city and for a franchise are often a part of achieving the dream of playing in the NHL.

Next: Reason #4: A young team

Reason #4: Vancouver is a team in transition, but they have a lot of young players with potential

Yes, joining a team that is in transition may not seem like an ideal situation from the outside looking in but a chance to be a mentor to young players is also an incredible opportunity. It means showing them what it means to be the best player possible both on and off the ice. It means setting an example with every practice, every shift, and every moment in between.

The Vancouver Canucks have a young upcoming core: Bo Horvat, Jake Virtanen, Ben Hutton, Sven Baertschi, Jared McCann. Each player could use as much inspiration to put their best game on the ice every game as their mentors are willing to share.

Along with the rookies, there is also the potential of re-signing of players such as Emerson Etem to help maintain youth and speed in a transitioning Vancouver Canucks lineup.

The team will need their younger players to step up proving they belong in the NHL. They will also need their veteran players and any players signed during the summer or acquired via trade to help be the guiding force for the youth.

Who knows what can happen with an inspired lineup that with any luck can stay healthy for the majority of the season… anything is possible.

Next: Reason #3: Playing in Canada

 Reason #3: A Canadian hockey market

Playing hockey in America is incredible but there is something especially alluring about playing hockey in Canada. From the sheer media frenzy to the arena atmosphere at puck drop, it can be an experience like no other.

It can be intimidating from the outside looking in as everyone has an opinion on every aspect of the game, but mostly it is mesmerizing. The fans and media alike are deeply invested in each and every aspect of the Vancouver Canucks all year long. Everyone has an opinion on the season’s outcome and more than willing to share if asked.

Attending a live game is an experience like no other. The lights go down, the arena stands in silently captivated as the anthems begin and before you know it, the puck drops and the entire crowd is cheering (or booing) in unison. Experiencing that intensity from ice level, would be an even more exciting perspective to be a part of as a player.

When the team is winning it’s an unbelievable ride to be on and when they struggle, the city will let them hear all about it, loudly. The fans in this city simply want to be a part of the journey every season, every step of the way.

Next: Reason #2: Hometown Dreamer

Reason #2: Donning the colors of childhood heroes

A lot of players dream to one day represent their home town/province/state teams and few get that special opportunity. To hear the cheers from the home crowd and know that your family can be at nearly every home game is a pretty tempting possibility.

In 2010, it was Dan Hamhuis, who achieved that dream when he signed with Vancouver. Hamhuis has been the consummate professional on and off the ice as the Vancouver Canucks current hometown hero.

In 2014, it was hometown rookie Jake Virtanen was was drafted by his childhood dream. In 2015, he made his NHL debut and will look to build upon his rookie campaign in his upcoming sophomore season come October.

A chance to be a difference maker and be closer to family at the same time will be a very tempting opportunity to consider for unrestricted free agents like Milan Lucic. Playing hero for the team that inspired your NHL dream would be a pretty surreal and incredible experience.

Next: Reason #1: An Opportunity to witness Sedinery