Vancouver Canucks: Top 15 unrestricted free-agent targets
By David Joun
No. 9: Matt Hunwick
Here is a name that has interested GM Jim Benning already. Here’s why it could make sense to sign Matt Hunwick to a small deal.
Been told the #Canucks have expressed interest in UFA defenseman Matt Hunwick.
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) June 27, 2017
Age: 32
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 200 lbs
2016-17 Stats: 72GP – 1G – 19PTS
2016-17 Salary: $1.2 million
Matt Hunwick isn’t the best fit for this group at age 32. His lack of size is also not something that is really welcomed by the blueline. However, Hunwick has the skating ability and the defensive acumen to block shots.
More importantly, Hunwick served as the alternate captain for the young Toronto Maple Leafs team. His leadership could be very useful for the rebuilding Canucks.
With Jim Benning’s history with the Boston Bruins as their assistant GM, Hunwick’s playing career in Boston may land him a gig with the Canucks this coming season. If Hunwick is signed to a long-term contract, however, it would be a disastrous offseason once again for Vancouver.