Former Canucks who are still UFAs

CALGARY, AB - JANUARY 29: Tyler Motte #64 of the Vancouver Canucks in action against the Calgary Flames during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on January 29, 2022 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The Flames defeated the Canucks 1-0 in overtime. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)
CALGARY, AB - JANUARY 29: Tyler Motte #64 of the Vancouver Canucks in action against the Calgary Flames during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on January 29, 2022 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The Flames defeated the Canucks 1-0 in overtime. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)
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TORONTO, ON – MARCH 5: Tyler Motte #64 of the Vancouver Canucks skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on March 5, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Canucks defeated the Maple Leafs 6-4. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON – MARCH 5: Tyler Motte #64 of the Vancouver Canucks skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on March 5, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Canucks defeated the Maple Leafs 6-4. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images)

#1 — Tyler Motte

It boggles my mind that Tyler Motte was not thrown a wad of cash and a multi-year deal the minute free agency opened.

The 27-year-old forward is perfect for a bottom-six role — a role that must not be overlooked, as the Tampa Bay Lightning proved in their recent success. He kills penalties, he blocks shots, and he pots fancy goals when you least expect them.

Rick Dhaliwal recently reported that four to five teams are seriously considering Motte, but that financial issues have prevented a deal from coming to fruition thus far.

Motte will certainly have a contract by the time the season starts, the only question is where. After all, if you’re Connor Bedard’s favourite player, someone will sign you.