An in-depth look at the Canucks bottom 6 for 2022-23

Jason Dickinson

One of the more underwhelming players on the Canucks roster this year, Jason Dickinson is due for a bounce-back season. He is under contract for two more years at an AAV of $2.65 million — a team-friendly deal if he plays up to his potential.

Canucks President Jim Rutherford recently told the media that the first thing he want to do heading into the off-season is clear cap space to be able to participate in free agency. While the initial thought might be to clear out some of the bigger contracts on the back end, that’s easier said than done. What they could do, however, is find a buyer for Dickinson if they believe he has peaked.

Will Lockwood

Will Lockwood became a regular fixture in the Canucks’ lineup shortly after they traded Tyler Motte to the New York Rangers at the deadline. He was instantly well-received by fans and media alike, largely because he reminded them of Motte.

While he has yet to put up a point through 15 games in the NHL, he provides solid defensive play and more grit than any other forward on the team. He hits, he fights, and he battles for every puck. At 23 years old, Lockwood has plenty of time to grow into a permanent bottom six role, similar to Motte.

Lockwood becomes an RFA this summer, but as he hasn’t played a ton of games at the NHL level, his next deal will likely be similar to the $842,500 that he currently makes.