One pending free agent the Canucks can steal from their Pacific Division rivals in the 2024 offseason

Alexander Barabanov, Forward/San Jose Sharks

The Sharks are another team that didn’t have a major selection, but Alexander Barabanov could still slide in on an affordable deal following what will have been a rough season with the San Jose Sharks. In 2021-22, Barabanov looked like a player on the rise after he logged 39 points in 70 games before he parlayed that into 47 points in 68 contests. 

But the 2023-24 season has seen him play in just 46 games through April 8th, and he has just four goals and 13 points on the season. Theoretically, a few teams could feel that Barabanov fits their respective systems and that they will sign him to a more luxurious deal, but there is also a good chance he goes for a more reasonably-priced amount. 

If he’s there for the taking at a more reasonable price, Patrik Allvin would be wise to make an inquiry if he believes the 29-year-old could fill a spot on the bottom-six. He won’t be much of a scorer, but Barabanov has some fair defense, including the will to land a few checks and steal the puck - he had 40 takeaways during that breakout 2021-22 campaign. 

He would also be a good asset on the second power play unit or used as insurance for the man advantage should injuries hit the Canucks.