The Vancouver Canucks signing Kevin Lankinen is a significant move, especially considering their recent goalie uncertainty. Lankinen has shown potential in his previous stints, particularly with the Chicago Blackhawks and Nashville Predators. His addition should provide the Canucks with a solid option in goal, which is crucial for their playoff aspirations. This contract could help stabilize their lineup and address any concerns about depth in net.
Bringing in Kevin Lankinen makes a lot of sense given Thatcher Demko’s ongoing injury issues. Lankinen’s experience as a reliable backup in Nashville can help bridge the gap while the Canucks wait for Demko to return to form.
Lankinen’s solid performances over the past two seasons, combined with his ability to step up when needed, should provide the Canucks with more stability in net. It’ll be interesting to see how he handles the increased workload and if he can help the team stay competitive in the early part of the season.
The excitement surrounding Kevin Lankinen’s signing reflects the Canucks’ proactive approach to their goaltending situation. Having Lankinen on board not only bolsters their depth but also brings a goalie who appreciates their playing style, which can be vital for team chemistry.
With Lankinen, Thatcher Demko, and Arturs Silovs, the Canucks have a solid goaltending trio. The one-year, $875,000 deal is a great value, especially considering the current landscape of goalie contracts.
As for the cap situation, the Canucks will need to navigate some tricky roster decisions. Demoting players like Nils Aman or Phil Di Giuseppe could be risky, especially if they get claimed off waivers. Long-term injured reserve could be a viable solution to create some cap flexibility, especially with players like Tucker Poolman not expected to play this season.
Ultimately, finding the right balance between cap compliance and maintaining a competitive roster will be crucial for the Canucks. It’ll be interesting to see how they handle these decisions in the coming days.
The Canucks’ strategy to avoid LTIR and accumulate cap space for a potential trade is a smart approach, especially if they aim to make a significant addition at the deadline. However, starting the season over the cap could complicate things, especially with their current goaltending situation.
Once Demko returns, Silovs could indeed be the odd man out, but it’s encouraging to hear that he gained valuable experience during last year’s playoffs. His confidence from those high-pressure situations could prove beneficial, whether he stays with the NHL team or heads to Abbotsford.
Tocchet’s emphasis on strengthening the goalie department highlights the importance of having depth, especially considering the unpredictability of injuries. Splitting the crease between Lankinen and Silovs while Demko recovers seems like a reasonable plan. If Demko is back by the end of October, it gives the Canucks a chance to assess Lankinen’s performance and Silovs’ readiness without rushing anyone back.
It’ll be fascinating to see how they manage the rotation early in the season.
Silovs has indeed faced numerous challenges, and his journey has shown his resilience and ability to rise to the occasion. Transitioning from a starting role with the Canucks to potentially being a backup after the signing of Lankinen can be tough mentally. It’s natural for players to feel a mix of emotions when a new addition impacts their role, especially after putting in the work to prepare for a significant season.
For Silovs, this could be a crucial moment for his development. He’ll need to channel any frustration or disappointment into a positive mindset and continue to work hard. The experience he gained last season, particularly during high-pressure situations, will serve him well as he navigates this new role.
If he can remain focused and view Lankinen’s presence as an opportunity to learn rather than a setback, it might help him grow as a player. Plus, maintaining a good relationship with Lankinen and the coaching staff will be key. It’ll be interesting to see how he adapts to this change and whether he can seize any opportunities that arise throughout the season.
