Canucks: Latest on Holtby, Markstrom, Virtanen, Motte, more
As the general manager of the Vancouver Canucks, Jim Benning has been wisely cautious this year. Here’s everything that’s happened so far on day one.
The first day of free agency is well underway and the Vancouver Canucks have let all three of their best UFAs test the open market. Tyler Toffoli and Chris Tanev are still a couple of big fish in the sea, but Jacob Markstrom got paid. The 30-year-old Swede signed a six-year, $36 million dollar contract with the Calgary Flames.
It was Jim Benning who struck first. At some point during negotiations, it became clear the two sides weren’t going to get a deal done and Benning decided it was time to walk away. Just over an hour into free agency, the Canucks announced the signing of 2018 Stanley Cup Champion Braden Holtby. The two sides agreed to a two-year contract worth an AAV of $4.3 million.
Braden Holtby says working with #Canucks goaltending coach Ian Clark was a major selling point for him
— Randip Janda (@RandipJanda) October 9, 2020
According to Randip Janda of Sportsnet 650, goaltending coach Ian Clark was a big reason why Holtby decided to sign with the Canucks. Add the fact that Vancouver is an up and coming young team and it’s a win-win situation. The dollar amount works out better for the cap-strapped Canucks and they collect a great consolation prize in the Saskatchewan native goaltender. He’ll be a terrific mentor for Thatcher Demko as he prepares to slowly transition into the starting role.
“Jacob Markstrom demonstrated incredible character and focus, was a fierce competitor night in and night out, and was a big part of our team. Equally impressive was his work in the community, particularly with @canucksautism. We wish Marky and his family the best going forward.” pic.twitter.com/2PHPMk1DSp
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) October 9, 2020
As for Markstrom, rumours swirled that both Alberta teams were involved in negotiations but it was the Flames that got Markstrom to put pen to paper. He wanted to stay in Vancouver if it was possible but the money in Calgary was too rich to pass up. He got the money he deserved and it’ll make for an interesting situation with the back-to-back Canucks’ MVP now playing for the enemy.
Tyler Motte avoids arbitration, Jake Virtanen welcomes it
Earlier this week the Canucks qualified Tyler Motte but it was made clear that both sides wanted to get a deal done and avoid arbitration. That was the first thing that happened for the Canucks today. Just a little bit after the opening of free agency, Benning and Motte agreed to a two-year deal.
Motte gets 2 year deal worth 2.4 million
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) October 9, 2020
@TSN1040
The hardworking fourth line grinder will be back in blue and green and earning his paycheques on the penalty kill. His AAV is $1.225 million and he earned every last penny. He’s an energy guy that fits the mould of this young team and Benning was happy to lock him up and avoid arbitration.
He was an excellent playoff performer within his role for the team. He had four goals and one assist through their 17 games and people can still perfectly visualize him breaking the ankles of Alex Pietrangelo and scoring shorthanded versus the St. Louis Blues.
Jake Virtanen has filed for salary arbitration. #Canucks
— Irfaan Gaffar (@irfgaffar) October 9, 2020
Jake Virtanen, however, has filed for arbitration and is hoping his 18-goal (36 points) season is enough to earn a big raise in the National Hockey League. Considering he could earn $3 million or more it’s probably something the Canucks wanted to avoid. There still could be a trade in the works but at this point, it’s probably unlikely.
Virtanen has been a very streaky player during his tenure on the Canucks and that gives Benning a reason to keep this deal short. It’ll likely be a one-year show-me contract as he underperformed in the 2020 NHL Playoffs. With Toffoli still unsigned, Virtanen could get every opportunity to become a legit 20-goal scorer inside the top-six but if that doesn’t happen, it’ll likely be his last dance in Vancouver.
Canucks have their eyes on Chris Tanev and Tyson Barrie
Talks have been very quiet between 10-year veteran Tanev and the Canucks. However, as the NHL gets further into the first day of free agency, whispers can be heard that Vancouver has circled back to the defensive defenseman.
Canucks have circled back and have talked to Chris Tanev camp.
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) October 9, 2020
@tsn1040
Perhaps Benning wanted to see what he was worth to other teams before offering a contract. It may eventually pay off for Vancouver as Tanev is still considering remaining with the Canucks. It was rumoured earlier by multiple sources that the Pittsburgh Penguins would be interested in Tanev, but considering no signings have been announced, maybe he’s become more affordable than originally thought.
The Canucks defence is in need of a serious tuneup but Benning hasn’t pulled the trigger on a right-shot defender. According to Thomas Drance of The Athletic, the Canucks have just over $10 million dollars left to spend, and that’s not including their RFAs heading for arbitration. Tyler Myers is the only guy on the right side as of right now, can Benning and Tanev find common ground?
Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver...all poking around Tyson Barrie.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) October 9, 2020
Maybe the reason for the hold up is Victoria native, Tyson Barrie. According to Darren Dreger of TSN, Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton have all been intrigued but the availability of the right-shot blueliner. The 29-year-old offensive defenseman has been tied to rumours involving the Canucks at least a handful of times over the last few seasons, so is this finally the year Benning brings him home?
Related Story. Canucks sign Braden Holtby to 2-year contract. light
He brings a completely different toolbelt in comparison to Tanev, but maybe that is exactly what this team needs. He plays a style much like Quinn Hughes but is the lesser of the two players. His best days are likely behind him at this point, but with a new change of scenery and a chance to play for your hometown team, maybe he can be rejuvenated into a 45-50 point defender.
Next. Canucks: What Joni Jurmo brings to the table. dark
What do you think Canucks fans? Are you happy with what Vancouver has done some far in the first day of free agency? What are your thoughts on Holtby? Will Tanev return? Let us know in the comments below and make sure to keep your eyes on The Canuck Way for more up to date free agency news.