Category Archives: Jonathan Marchessault

Anthony Duclair, Anthony Mantha, Canucks, Elias Pettersson, Jake DeBrusk, Jake Guentzel, Jonathan Marchessault, Nikolaj Ehlers, Pavel Buchnevich, Sam Reinhart, Teuvo Teravainen, Tyler Bertuzzi, Tyler Toffoli, Vancouver Canucks, Viktor Arvidsson

Winger Suggestion Series: Final Review

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As we approach the start of free agency on Monday, July 1st, the Vancouver Canucks find themselves in a critical position, poised to make significant moves to improve their roster. With a clear focus on finding the perfect winger to pair with Elias Pettersson, the Canucks have explored various options over the past weeks. Here’s a final review of all 12 winger choices and a strategic assessment heading into free agency.

Plan A: Jake Guentzel

Jake Guentzel appears to be the Canucks’ primary target. His proven playoff performance, connection with current management, and offensive skill set make him an ideal fit alongside Pettersson. However, acquiring Guentzel will require careful maneuvering of the salary cap, particularly the need to trade Ilya Mikheyev to free up space. If successful, this move could also allow the Canucks to sign Nikita Zadorov, who is rumored to want to stay in Vancouver.

Backup Options

If the Canucks are unable to secure Guentzel, they must be prepared to pivot quickly to other viable options. Here are the most promising candidates:

Jake DeBrusk

Jake DeBrusk has been on the Canucks’ radar for years and could be a strong fallback option. His size, potential, and previous interest from the team make him a plausible candidate. DeBrusk’s inconsistent play in Boston suggests that a change of scenery and playing under Rick Tocchet might reignite his career.

Teuvo Teräväinen

Teuvo Teräväinen, with his playmaking abilities and solid two-way game, offers a well-rounded alternative. His possession skills and experience would benefit Pettersson, though his size and recent performance fluctuations should be considered.

Tyler Bertuzzi

Tyler Bertuzzi brings physicality and a gritty style of play that fits well with Rick Tocchet’s system. While his contract demands might be high, his aggressive play and ability to finish could make him a valuable addition if the Canucks miss out on Guentzel.

Anthony Duclair

Anthony Duclair’s speed and offensive creativity make him an intriguing option. Despite his lack of physicality, Duclair’s ability to drive play and finish could complement Pettersson’s playmaking. His performance with Tampa Bay showed promise, suggesting he could thrive in a high-quality environment.

Risky but High-Reward Options

The following players offer high potential but come with significant risks:

Nikolaj Ehlers

Nikolaj Ehlers, currently with the Winnipeg Jets, brings elite skill and speed. However, acquiring him would require a trade and assurance of a contract extension. Ehlers’ offensive prowess and ability to play either wing make him a high-reward option if the Canucks can manage the risks involved.

Viktor Arvidsson

Viktor Arvidsson offers a short-term solution with his speed and tenacity. While not a long-term fix due to his age, Arvidsson’s ability to finish plays and his affordable cap hit make him an attractive option if the Canucks need to pivot quickly.

Solid but Limited Options

These players provide reliable skills but may not be the transformative addition the Canucks need:

Tyler Toffoli

Tyler Toffoli’s previous chemistry with Pettersson and consistent scoring make him a familiar and reliable option. However, his age and potential contract demands could limit his long-term impact.

Pavel Buchnevich

Pavel Buchnevich offers versatility and a strong two-way game. His ability to control possession and create scoring chances would benefit Pettersson, though acquiring him via trade would require significant assets.

Jonathan Marchessault

Jonathan Marchessault, despite his age, brings playoff experience and scoring ability. His cap hit and potential desire to stay with a contender like Vegas make him a less likely but still valuable option.

Anthony Mantha

Anthony Mantha’s size and goal-scoring potential are intriguing, but his inconsistency and lack of physical play are concerns. He could be a high-risk, high-reward addition if the Canucks can unlock his potential.

Least Likely but Intriguing Option

These players are less likely to be signed but offer unique attributes:

Sam Reinhart

Sam Reinhart, a North Vancouver native, presents an exciting but improbable option. His strong two-way game and scoring ability make him a great fit, but his contract demands and current situation with Florida make him unlikely.

Strategic Assessment

As the Canucks head into free agency, their primary focus on Jake Guentzel is clear. Trading Ilya Mikheyev to free up cap space is essential to making this plan work. If successful, they can also pursue signing Nikita Zadorov to bolster their defense. However, if the Guentzel deal falls through, the Canucks must be ready to pivot quickly to ensure they do not miss out on other valuable options like DeBrusk, Teräväinen, or Bertuzzi.

The key to success will be flexibility and quick decision-making. Swinging for the fences with Guentzel is a bold move, but it could pay off significantly. However, the Canucks must avoid being caught behind the eight ball if everything doesn’t go as planned. Ensuring they have backup plans and are ready to act swiftly will be crucial to their offseason success.

Go Canucks Go!

Canucks, Elias Pettersson, Jonathan Marchessault, Vancouver Canucks

Winger Suggestion Series: Elias Pettersson – Episode Three: Jonathan Marchessault

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Jonathan Marchessault is an Elite Scorer on the Market that any serious contender should be kicking the tires on. As the Vancouver Canucks search for the ideal winger to pair with Elias Pettersson, Jonathan Marchessault of the Vegas Golden Knights presents an intriguing option. With his proven scoring ability and recent playoff success, Marchessault could potentially make a significant impact. However, his age, contract demands, and fit within the Canucks’ long-term plans warrant careful consideration.

Season Overview and Stats

Jonathan Marchessault had a stellar 2023-24 season, notching 42 goals and 27 assists in a full 82-game slate, totaling 69 points. His average time on ice (TOI) was 17:54, and he maintained a Corsi rating of 49.7%. These numbers highlight his offensive prowess and his ability to consistently contribute to his team’s success.

The Case for Marchessault

Proven Scoring Ability

Marchessault’s ability to score goals is unquestionable. With 42 goals last season, he demonstrated that he remains one of the most potent offensive threats in the league. His knack for finding the back of the net would be a tremendous asset alongside Pettersson, potentially boosting the Canucks’ overall offensive output.

Playoff Pedigree

Marchessault’s recent success in the playoffs, including winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player during the Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup run, underscores his ability to perform under pressure. This experience would be invaluable to a Canucks team looking to make deeper playoff runs. His presence could help mentor younger players and instill a winning mentality within the squad.

Offensive Skill Set

Marchessault is known for his great hands, puck skills, and offensive creativity. These attributes could complement Pettersson’s style of play, creating a dynamic duo capable of generating numerous scoring opportunities. His ability to both finish plays and set up his teammates makes him a versatile addition to any top line.

The Challenges and Considerations

Age and Longevity

At 33 years old, Marchessault is at a point in his career where decline could set in at any time. While he remains highly productive, the Canucks need to consider the long-term implications of adding an older player. Ideally, they should be targeting players closer to Pettersson’s age to ensure sustained success and avoid the need for future replacements.

Contract and Salary Cap

Marchessault’s current cap hit is $5 million, and as an unrestricted free agent, he is likely to command a lucrative contract on the open market. Given his playoff success and scoring ability, teams will be willing to pay a premium for his services. The Canucks, with their current salary cap constraints, may find it challenging to offer a competitive contract without sacrificing other areas of their roster.

Fit with Long-Term Plans

While Marchessault could provide an immediate boost, the Canucks must balance short-term gains with their long-term vision. Investing heavily in an older player might not align with the team’s goal of building a sustainable contender. Instead, focusing on younger wingers who can grow alongside Pettersson might be a more prudent approach.

Does Jonathan Marchessault Fit with Pettersson?

Jonathan Marchessault brings a lot to the table with his proven scoring ability, playoff pedigree, and offensive skill set. However, his age, contract demands, and fit within the Canucks’ long-term plans present significant challenges. While the idea of adding a player of Marchessault’s caliber is enticing, the Canucks need to carefully weigh the pros and cons.

Marchessault’s potential impact alongside Pettersson could be substantial, but the team must consider whether this short-term boost is worth the long-term risks. Ultimately, the Canucks may need to explore other options that offer a better balance of immediate impact and future potential.

As the offseason unfolds, fans will be keenly watching the Canucks’ moves to see how they address their need for a top-line winger. Whether it’s Marchessault or another candidate, finding the right fit for Pettersson is crucial for the team’s success.

Go Canucks Go!