The Vancouver Canucks have been busy making significant moves ahead of free agency, positioning themselves for a successful upcoming season. The recent trade of Ilya Mikheyev to the Chicago Blackhawks has freed up essential cap space, allowing the team to secure crucial deals. In a series of announcements, General Manager Patrik Allvin confirmed the re-signing of two pivotal players: defenceman Tyler Myers and forward Dakota Joshua. These moves are set to bolster the Canucks’ lineup, adding stability and depth to the roster.
Tyler Myers Re-Signs with the Canucks
The Canucks have agreed to terms with defenceman Tyler Myers on a three-year contract worth $3 million annually. Myers, who has been a valued member of the organization, brings a unique skill set and is a key member of the team’s leadership group. Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 229 lbs, Myers’ physical presence on the ice is undeniable.
Myers’ Impact on the Ice
Myers, 34, appeared in 77 games this past season, tallying 29 points (5 goals, 24 assists), 77 penalty minutes, and a +16 plus/minus rating. His 24 assists and 29 points ranked third among Canucks defencemen, highlighting his offensive contributions from the blue line. Throughout his career, Myers has played 995 regular season games, recording 371 points (93 goals, 278 assists), 787 penalty minutes, and a +9 plus/minus rating. His experience and veteran presence are invaluable to the Canucks’ defensive corps.
A Decorated Career
Myers’ career accolades include winning the Calder Trophy as NHL Rookie of the Year during the 2009-10 season. Additionally, he has represented Canada on multiple occasions, including at the 2009 World Junior Hockey Championships, where he won gold, as well as the 2010, 2014, and 2023 World Championships, capturing gold in 2023. His international experience further underscores his value to the team.
Allvin’s Confidence in Myers
General Manager Patrik Allvin expressed his satisfaction with Myers’ re-signing, stating, “Tyler has been a valued member of our organization and we are very happy to have him back with our team. He brings a unique skillset to the ice and is a key member of our leadership group. Tyler is a big, strong, physical defenceman who fits in nicely on our backend.” Myers’ re-signing ensures that the Canucks maintain a solid defensive foundation moving forward.
Dakota Joshua Returns to the Canucks
In addition to Myers, the Canucks have also secured forward Dakota Joshua on a four-year contract with an annual average value of $3.25 million. Joshua, 28, had a breakout season with the Canucks, demonstrating his potential and earning a well-deserved extension.
Joshua’s Breakout Season
Joshua appeared in 63 games for the Canucks this past season, tallying 32 points (18 goals, 14 assists), 60 penalty minutes, and a +19 plus/minus rating. His goal, assist, and point totals all set new career highs, building on his previous bests set during the 2022-23 season. Joshua’s physicality, speed, and scoring touch make him a valuable asset to the team’s forward group.
Career and College Achievements
Throughout his career, Joshua has played 184 regular season NHL games, recording 64 points (33 goals, 31 assists), 143 penalty minutes, and a +6 plus/minus rating. He has also appeared in 14 postseason matchups, contributing eight points (4 goals, 4 assists) and 10 penalty minutes. Before joining the NHL, Joshua spent four years at The Ohio State University, amassing 100 points (41 goals, 59 assists) in 128 career games and helping the Buckeyes capture the Big 10 Conference Regular Season Championship in the 2018-19 season.
Allvin’s Optimism for Joshua
General Manager Allvin expressed his optimism about Joshua’s future with the team, stating, “Dakota had a strong season for us and took some big steps forward in his game. We really like his size, his speed, and physicality. He fit in well with our system and the way we want to play hockey, and I look forward to watching him continue to develop under our coaching staff.” Joshua’s return ensures that the Canucks maintain the strong depth and physicality on their third line that was so dominant this past season.
Looking Ahead: Cap Space and Future Moves
The trade of Ilya Mikheyev to Chicago was a strategic move that provided the Canucks with much-needed cap space. This flexibility allowed the team to re-sign key players like Myers and Joshua, ensuring the stability and continuity of the roster. As free agency approaches, the Canucks are well-positioned to make additional moves to further strengthen their lineup.
Fan Excitement and Anticipation
As a fan, the re-signing of Myers and Joshua is particularly exciting. Myers’ veteran presence and leadership, combined with Joshua’s breakout potential and physicality, add significant value to the team. Joshua’s desire to remain with the Canucks, despite the potential for a more lucrative contract in free agency, speaks volumes about his commitment to the team and its goals.
The Canucks’ front office, led by Patrik Allvin, has made strategic moves to secure key players and maintain cap flexibility. With the re-signings of Myers and Joshua, the team is well-prepared for the upcoming season and the challenges that lie ahead. Fans can look forward to seeing these players continue to contribute and help the Canucks achieve success.
Tell Us Your Thoughts!
What are your thoughts on the recent moves by the Canucks? Do you think re-signing Myers and Joshua was the right decision? How do you feel about the team’s strategy heading into free agency? Share your opinions and join the conversation with fellow Canucks fans. Let’s keep the excitement and anticipation high as we look forward to the upcoming season.
Go Canucks Go!