As the 2021 NHL season approaches its conclusion, the future of veteran forward Loui Eriksson with the Vancouver Canucks remains uncertain. Eriksson`s contract is set to expire at the end of this season, leaving many fans and analysts wondering what his fate will be with the team.
Eriksson signed a six-year, $36 million contract with the Canucks in 2016, after a successful stint with the Boston Bruins. However, his performance in Vancouver has been lackluster, with just 38 goals and 81 points in 245 games played over the past five seasons.
The 35-year-old Swedish winger has been a healthy scratch for much of the current season, appearing in just seven games and recording one assist. His $6 million cap hit has also been a burden for the Canucks, who have struggled to manage their salary cap in recent years.
With a new general manager in Jim Benning and a coaching staff that prefers a faster, more offensive style of play, Eriksson`s future with the team looks bleak. The Canucks have several up-and-coming forwards, such as Nils Hoglander and Kole Lind, who could potentially take Eriksson`s roster spot next season.
It`s possible that the Canucks could buy out Eriksson`s contract this offseason, which would provide some cap relief while also allowing Eriksson to become a free agent. Alternatively, the team could explore trading him to a team in need of veteran leadership and depth scoring.
Regardless of what happens with Eriksson, it`s clear that the Canucks need to make some changes this offseason in order to remain competitive in a tough Pacific Division. With a young core of talented players, they have the potential to return to the playoffs in the near future, but it will take some difficult decisions and strategic moves to get there.
In conclusion, Loui Eriksson`s contract expiry is a major topic of discussion for Vancouver Canucks fans and analysts alike. With his performance declining and his cap hit weighing down the team, it`s uncertain whether he will remain with the team or be traded or bought out this offseason. Whatever the outcome, the Canucks will need to make some tough decisions in order to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving NHL.