The Vancouver Canucks have recently made significant strides in the free agent market, attracting notable talent from across the league. These new signings have cited various intriguing reasons for choosing to don the Canucks jersey, reflecting a renewed interest in the team’s direction and culture. Let’s look into what these players had to say about their decisions and what it means for the Canucks moving forward.
Kiefer Sherwood from Nashville
One of the most interesting insights came from Kiefer Sherwood, formerly with the Nashville Predators. During his interview, Sherwood expressed admiration for the Canucks’ performance in the playoffs. “I got a little close up in the playoffs and that’s what excited me to be part of this group because there are a lot of special things brewing,” said Sherwood. “I definitely want to be a part of it.”
Sherwood also emphasized the energy and physicality he brings to the game. “I try to play my game and be hard to play against and use the physicality to create time and space and also use my shot. Energy is a big word in my identity. I want to show up and earn my stripes because I have a lot of respect for guys in that room and they made it such a hard series.”
Vincent Desharnais from Edmonton
Vincent Desharnais, a hulking defenseman from the Edmonton Oilers, shared his excitement about joining the Canucks. “We’re going to be a very good D-core. Very hard to play against and our zone is going to be a war zone. I don’t think forwards are going to enjoy coming in front of our net,” Desharnais said. “I’m very happy to join Vancouver. It’s been some great battles this year against them, so it’s going to be nice to finally be on their side and not getting hit every time I go retrieve a puck.”
Desharnais also praised the Canucks’ coaching staff, particularly head coach Rick Tocchet and assistant coach Adam Foote. “Right away, the fact that they took the time to call me and introduce themselves, and to have a conversation with both coaches, I really appreciated that,” Desharnais mentioned. “I just felt how professional the coaching staff was. I want to work with Adam Foote; I think it will be great for my career.”
Boston Players’ Respect for Canucks’ Competitiveness
Several players from the Boston Bruins have also made their way to Vancouver, and they all had similar reasons for their move. Jake DeBrusk spoke about the strong interest the Canucks showed in him. “They were very aggressive,” DeBrusk said. “I had a really good feeling about them and we were talking and things of that nature and things were looking like they were going to hopefully go in the right direction.”
DeBrusk continued, “I woke up pretty early today and it felt like a pretty normal day, and then as soon as I got the confirmation that I was coming here I’ve been overwhelmed for the whole day. It’s been really exciting and it’s something I just can’t wait to get to the city, and I can’t wait to get started. I feel very, very lucky and honored to be on the Vancouver Canucks.”
Derek Forbort, another addition from Boston, highlighted his desire to join a competitive team. “Joining a team that has a chance to win was the first thing I was looking for,” said Forbort. “I’m a hard-nosed penalty killer and it’s a good fit because it’s a style I like to play.”
Danton Heinen, who grew up in British Columbia, expressed his enthusiasm for playing closer to home. “Growing up here, it’s obviously a place I wanted to play,” said Heinen. “It means a lot playing closer to home and a passionate fan base is something you want. I just want to be another cog in the wheel and just be me and pull on the chain.”
The JT Miller Comparison
Jake DeBrusk has drawn comparisons to JT Miller, a key player for the Canucks. Fans and analysts alike have noted the similarities in their play styles and point totals. When Miller first joined the Canucks, he was at a similar stage in his career as DeBrusk is now. This comparison has fueled excitement about DeBrusk’s potential impact on the team.
“Tocchet can mold DeBrusk into a JT Miller-type player,” some have suggested. Given Miller’s success and importance to the Canucks, this is a promising prospect. DeBrusk’s versatility and ability to perform in various situations make him a valuable addition to the team.
A Changing Perception
The enthusiasm shown by these new signings marks a significant shift for the Canucks. For several years, attracting top talent was a challenge, often requiring the team to overpay to secure players. However, the current wave of signings indicates a change in perception. Players are now taking discounts to join the Canucks, driven by the positive vibe around the team and the culture being built.
General Manager Patrik Allvin has a clear vision for the team, and it’s evident that the league is taking notice. This renewed interest from players will make it easier to continue improving the team in the future. “It’s been a few difficult years, but now there’s a real sense of excitement about the Canucks,” remarked Allvin. “The direction the team is heading in is attracting a lot of attention.”
The Role of Fans
As Canucks fans, it’s crucial to recognize the impact we have on the team. The passionate support and electric atmosphere at Rogers Arena during the playoffs resonated throughout the league. Players, agents, and hockey fans everywhere took notice. The packed arena and the engagement online and with the media are factors that potential signings consider.
Our passion for the Canucks needs to remain high. The energy and support we provide can influence players’ decisions to join the team. It’s not just hollow words—our involvement truly matters. Players want to be part of something special, and our continued enthusiasm can help sustain the positive momentum.
How Canucks Fans Help The Team
The recent free agent signings are a testament to the growing appeal of the Vancouver Canucks. The team’s playoff performance, the passionate fanbase, and the committed coaching staff have all played significant roles in attracting new talent. With players expressing excitement about joining the Canucks, it’s clear that the team’s future is bright.
As fans, let’s keep the energy high and continue supporting our team with the same passion that has already made a difference. The Canucks are on the rise, and together, we can help propel them to new heights.
Go Canucks Go!