Canucks Secure Future with Lankinen’s Contract Extension
On Friday, the Vancouver Canucks announced the signing of goaltender Kevin Lankinen to a five-year, $22.5 million contract extension. This move solidifies Lankinen’s role in the organization for the foreseeable future and provides the Canucks with a dependable option in net. Lankinen, 29, has been a standout performer this season, contributing 19 of Vancouver’s 26 wins. The extension not only fortifies the Canucks’ goaltending depth but also sets the stage for some critical decisions regarding their other netminders.
Balancing the Goaltending Tandem
The Canucks are now committed to paying $9.5 million on goaltending for the upcoming 2025-26 season, with Thatcher Demko’s contract accounting for $5 million and Lankinen’s new deal adding $4.5 million. This significant investment represents about 10% of the team’s salary cap, making Vancouver’s goaltending tandem one of the most expensive in the NHL. While this allocation ensures the Canucks have high-quality goaltenders, it also necessitates careful management of other roster positions to stay within cap constraints.
Demko’s Future Uncertain
The decision to sign Lankinen long-term raises questions about the future of Thatcher Demko. Demko, 29, has been a cornerstone of the Canucks’ roster since he joined the team. However, his injury history has become a significant concern. This season, Demko has played only 17 games and will miss the upcoming five-game road trip due to a lower-body injury. Despite his talent and potential, the Canucks may need to consider other options if Demko’s health issues persist. Having a reliable and steady goaltender like Lankinen in the mix is crucial for the team’s stability and performance, especially if Demko’s availability remains uncertain.
Impact on Young Talent
The contract extension for Lankinen also has implications for the development of younger goaltenders within the organization. Artūrs Šilovs, a 23-year-old prospect, is on the brink of making the jump to the NHL. However, with Lankinen and Demko now signed for the next season, Šilovs is likely to be blocked from regular NHL opportunities unless injuries occur. Šilovs has struggled this season in the NHL, and he is at a critical point in his career where consistent NHL experience is crucial. The Canucks will need to find a way to balance Šilovs’ development with the established tandem of Demko and Lankinen.
Lankinen’s Impact on the Canucks
Kevin Lankinen’s performance this season has been a significant factor in the Canucks’ current playoff position. Despite only joining the organization a few months ago, Lankinen has quickly become one of the team’s best players. His reliability and consistency have provided a much-needed boost to the team’s defense and have been instrumental in their recent success. The Canucks’ decision to invest long-term in Lankinen is a clear indication of their faith in his abilities and the positive impact he has had on the team.
Looking Ahead
While every long-term contract carries risks, the Canucks have secured a valuable asset in Lankinen at a reasonable average annual value (AAV) of $4.5 million. This extension not only provides stability in net but also allows the Canucks to build around a reliable goaltender. The team will need to navigate the challenges posed by Demko’s injury history and Šilovs’ development, but the signing of Lankinen is a positive step towards building a competitive and resilient roster. For the latest news and in-depth analysis, make sure to follow THN’s Vancouver Canucks site and engage with the passionate Canucks community through our forum.
