Vancouver Canucks Secure Goaltender Kevin Lankinen for One Year

The Vancouver Canucks have strategically bolstered their goaltender lineup by signing Finnish goaltender Kevin Lankinen to a one-year contract, valued at $875,000. This move comes amidst speculation and concerns following the offseason injury of primary goaltender Thatcher Demko. Despite the circumstances, the team refrained from making hasty acquisitions, opting instead for patience in their search for a reliable addition to the net.

Lankinen, 29, brings a wealth of experience, having played in 112 NHL games split between the Chicago Blackhawks and Nashville Predators. In the most recent season, Lankinen appeared in 24 games for the Predators, achieving a record of 11-6-0, a 2.82 goals-against average, a .908 save percentage, and securing one shutout.

“Kevin is an experienced NHL player who will add to our depth in goal,” stated Patrik Allvin, General Manager of the Canucks. “He had a solid season last year in Nashville and possesses the size and skillset we favor in our goalkeepers. We are eager to integrate him into our training regimen,” Allvin added.

The Canucks’ decision not to immediately invest heavily in a goaltender allowed them to avoid triggering the long-term injury reserve (LTIR) status, which could have impacted their salary cap management for the upcoming season. By maintaining their offer below $1 million, they successfully signed Lankinen once the preseason neared, and without the competition for his signature escalating.

Vancouver’s current strategy will likely involve Lankinen and rookie Arturs Silovs competing for starting slots until Demko is fit to return. Lankinen is expected to bring stability and a competitive edge, especially significant given his sturdy performance metrics over the past two seasons with the Predators, where he recorded a .912 save percentage.

General Manager Allvin acknowledged the anticipated challenge in the goaltender department but remained optimistic about the depth and potential within the squad. This signing offers a financial advantage, as Lankinen’s cap hit is marginally higher than Silovs’, allowing flexibility once the roster reshuffle takes place.

Prior to joining the NHL, Lankinen made notable contributions on the international stage, where he was instrumental in Finland’s victory at the 2019 Men’s World Championships, achieving an impressive 7-1-0 record, a 1.50 GAA, and a .942 save percentage.