Several names have been linked with the franchise over the last few weeks, but one player that keeps making headlines is veteran Jiri Hudler. A few reports had the winger ready to sign last month, but those reports proved inaccurate. However, once again rumors have surfaced and many experts expect a decision in the next few days.
Last year with Calgary and Florida, the 32-year-old had 46 points, including 16 goals, not the same numbers as the 2014-15 season when he totaled a career high 76 points, but stats that would be a welcomed addition to a franchise that had a miserable hockey season last year.
The former second round pick of the Detroit Red Wings has been a solid scorer since entering the NHL in 2003. With 161 goals and 256 assists in 676 career games, Hudler is the best available free agent remaining this summer and the type of offensive player that would definitely give the Canucks a boost on the offensive end of the ice if signed.
29-year-old Russian Vadim Shipachyov is another option at this point of the off season. The veteran has never played in North America, but his scoring prowess in Russia is well known with over one point per game average in his career. His skating ability isn’t that of Hudler, but his grit and determination would make for a very interesting signing and with his age, he could become a more long-term answer for Vancouver.
The front office has already added some help this summer, but more depth and scoring options are needed. Both of these players would upgrade an aging roster and give the franchise a shot at winning while they infuse younger talent and rebuild this squad back into a team that contend for a Stanley Cup.
