The Vancouver Canucks’ offseason has been dominated by questions surrounding Thatcher Demko’s health. With the start of the season looming, the Canucks are reportedly seeking a veteran insurance policy in net, and Kevin Lankinen has emerged as their target. However, it appears the Canucks are playing a risky game with a lowball offer to the free-agent goaltender.
Canucks’ Lowball Offer to Lankinen
Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal has revealed that the team has offered Lankinen a one-year contract worth under $1 million. This is significantly less than the $2 million he earned last season with the Nashville Predators. While the Canucks may be hoping to capitalize on Lankinen’s need for a contract, this strategy could backfire.
Canucks Fans React
News of the Canucks’ offer has sparked a mixed reaction from fans. Some believe the team needs to increase their offer to secure Lankinen’s services. Others are urging the team to place Demko on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) to free up cap space to sign Lankinen.
Fan Reactions:
- “Lankinen knows the Canucks need him! I wouldn’t take under a million to play for a team that needs me.”
- “Just put Thatcher Demko on LTIR and free up some cap space to sign him already!”
The Canucks’ Goalie Gamble
The Canucks’ pursuit of Lankinen is understandable. They need a reliable backup in case Demko is not ready for the start of the season. However, their lowball offer is a gamble. Lankinen may be willing to take a pay cut to play for a team that needs him, but there’s a limit to how low he’ll go.
If the Canucks are serious about signing Lankinen, they need to increase their offer. Otherwise, they risk losing him to another team. And with Demko’s health still a question mark, that’s a risk they can’t afford to take.
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A gamble that has paid off immensely. Currently Lankinen is 7-0-1 in his 8 starts. He looks fantastic and his play has allowed Thatcher Demko to take his time to heal and not rush back from it. I wouldn’t be shocked to see Lankinen sign an extension.