The Vancouver Canucks continue to linger.
After a strong 2023-24 performance, which ended with 109 regular season points, albeit a disappointing first-round exit, this looked like a franchise destined for more.
But, 2024-25 was a disaster; the Canucks missed the playoffs, and the media ran rampant with the J.T. Miller/Elias Pettersson saga.
One potential option that could bolster this Vancouver squad is Jack Roslovic.
Rick Dhaliwal of The Athletic had this to say about the Roslovic/Canucks situation:
“For those asking, not sure where this goes but the Canucks continue to talk with UFA Jack Roslovic’s camp.”
Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects also added:
“Sounds like Roslovic’s camp is looking for a 2 or 3-year deal at just over [$3 million] per.”
Cap-wise, Vancouver has about $3.2 million remaining and could theoretically devote a significant chunk, if not all of that, to Roslovic. But, the better question is, should it want him?
Roslovic, 28, has always been a speedy, skilled forward with the ability to center a bottom six line. He is coming off a 22-goal (tied for a career high), 39-point campaign with the Carolina Hurricanes.
If the season started today, the Canucks would likely roll out Elias Pettersson and Filip Chytil as their top two centers, with guys like Brock Boeser, Connor Garland, Jake Debrusk, and Evander Kane manning the wings.
Roslovic, especially at that cost, would add serviceable scoring pop on the third line.
The biggest problem with Roslovic is his defense (or lack thereof). He has often been picked on by opposing forward groups and does not necessarily have the jam or sandpaper needed to thrive in the playoffs.
Roslovic is a fine player, and he could absolutely contribute in Vancouver, but this does not feel like a perfect marriage.
