In the fourth edition of the Canuck Way Rewind, we’re taking a look at the Ed Jovanovski trade, and how it impacted the Vancouver Canucks for years to come.
Every Wednesday, we’re going to take a look at some of the most memorable events in Vancouver Canucks’ history, and how they have shaped the team today. From goals, assists and key plays, to trades, signings and debuts, this weekly segment should be a fond trip down memory lane for all Canucks’ fans.
The Vancouver Canucks have seen their fair share of defencemen during the latter half of their existence in the NHL. Like many teams, they’ve encountered a variety of playing styles on the blueline, from puck-moving, speedy and offensive, to hard-hitting, suffocating and downright nasty to play against.
Some went on to have memorable, decorated careers in the NHL. Others stuck around in Vancouver for a forgettable cup of coffee. Of course, there are select players that are only at the beginning of their hockey journey, hungry to make their mark on the West Coast.
But when it comes to choosing an all-time Canuck favourite from the past 25 years, it’s no surprise that Ed Jovanovski would top the list for many fans, teammates and coaching staff alike.
Jovanovski began his professional career with the Florida Panthers after being chosen first overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. This selection came as a bit of a surprise to many in the league, including Jovanovski, as scouts had never considered him that high in their rankings during his draft-eligible season. However, the Panthers were in need of a two-way, big-bodied defenceman who would become a staple in their lineup.
Jovanovski definitely filled that card.
After playing one more junior year with the Windsor Spitfires during the 1994-95 season, where he registered 23 goals and 42 assists in 50 games. Jovanovski signed a four-year, $5.7 million contract with the Panthers in June 1995.
Despite breaking his hand during the preseason and missing the first 11 games of the regular season, Jovanovski had an impressive rookie campaign in Florida. He put up 10 goals and 21 points in 70 games, but, more importantly, was proving to be a reliable and effective player on both ends of the ice.
He also played a key role in Florida’s playoff run that year, registering nine points in 22 postseason games. The Panthers made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Final but were swept by the Colorado Avalanche.
During the offseason, Jovanovski was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team and was also nominated for the Calder Memorial Trophy, alongside Eric Daze and Daniel Alfredsson, who ended up capturing the award. He even finished 16th in Norris Trophy voting as the league’s best defenceman.
Jovanovski continued his effective play the next two seasons, notching 23 points respectfully during each campaign. Despite the offensive consistency, this was a far cry from the numbers he put up on the scoresheet in Windsor. That, along with accumulated injuries and suspensions, started to worry management in Florida. And with his contract set to expire following the 1998-1999 season, many believed that Jovanovski’s time down south was coming to an end.
Cue the trade.