Recently on Donnie and Dhali — The Team, Rick Dhaliwal mentioned that the Vancouver Canucks have their eyes on Brandon Duhaime as a potential option for their bottom-six forward group if he becomes a free agent this summer. “The Canucks had big interest in Minnesota Wild Forward Brandon Duhaime at the trade deadline, and I am told today the interest has not gone away,” Dhaliwal stated. “He would be a great fit on the fourth line… Kills penalties, energy, tough, sticks up for teammates, he can fight. Keep an eye on Duhaime and the Canucks if he hits July 1st.”

The Canucks’ Interest in Brandon Duhaime

The Canucks’ interest in Duhaime isn’t new. Back in late February, DailyFaceoff’s Frank Seravalli also linked the Canucks to the American winger. Although the Wild eventually traded Duhaime to the Colorado Avalanche for a 2026 third-round pick, Vancouver’s interest has persisted, according to Dhaliwal. This consistent interest raises the question: Should the Canucks make a concerted effort to sign Duhaime if he hits free agency?

Brandon Duhaime’s Fit with the Canucks

Brandon Duhaime’s playstyle aligns well with the type of hockey Rick Tocchet wants from his players. Duhaime is known for his physicality and defensive acumen rather than his offensive output. In the 2022-23 season, Duhaime recorded a combined 13 points (five goals and eight assists) in 80 games split between the Wild and Avalanche. Additionally, he scored a goal in 11 postseason games. His primary contributions are his reliability as a penalty killer and his physical presence, evidenced by his 208 hits last season.

For a team like the Canucks, who have struggled with defensive consistency and physicality in their bottom six, Duhaime could be an ideal addition. His ability to kill penalties and bring energy to the ice makes him a valuable asset. Moreover, his willingness to stand up for teammates and engage in physical play adds an element of toughness that the Canucks’ bottom six currently lacks.

Contract Considerations

Duhaime is coming off a one-year contract that paid him $1.1 million. According to AFPAnalytics, his next contract is projected to be a three-year deal worth $5.5 million, with an average annual value (AAV) of approximately $1.8 million. This is a reasonable cap hit for a player who can provide the attributes the Canucks are seeking. With the projected loss of Sam Lafferty to free agency, Duhaime could be a cost-effective replacement who brings a similar level of grit and defensive reliability.

Potential Hurdles

While the Canucks’ interest is clear, there are potential hurdles in signing Duhaime. The Colorado Avalanche, who acquired him at the trade deadline, might decide to re-sign him. Given Duhaime’s fit in their lineup and his reasonable projected contract, Colorado could very well offer him a similar deal. If the Avalanche are unable to reach an agreement with Duhaime, the Canucks should be prepared to make a significant push to secure his services.

Is Brandon Duhaime an Option for the Bottom Six

Brandon Duhaime presents a compelling option for the Vancouver Canucks’ bottom six. His physical play, defensive reliability, and penalty-killing prowess align perfectly with what the team needs. At a projected AAV of $1.8 million, he would be a cost-effective addition that could address several areas of need for the Canucks.

However, the Canucks must be proactive in their pursuit, as competition for a player of Duhaime’s skill set could be stiff. If the Avalanche decide to part ways with him, Vancouver should be ready to make a strong offer.

Engaging the fans, what do you think about the potential signing of Brandon Duhaime? Do you believe he would be a good fit for the Canucks’ bottom six, or should the team look elsewhere to bolster their lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Go Canucks Go!