According to another Rick Dhaliwal reportsVancouver Canucks is considering pursuing veteran forward Milan Lucic in free agency. Lucic, who is expected to enter the open market on July 1 after not re-signing with the Calgary Flames, has long been linked to his hometown of Vancouver. There are nine rumors that Lusek would open it up to the Toronto Maple Leafs, but the Canucks have been the favorite since it was revealed Calgary was likely going in a different direction.
Hitting a maximum that is likely close to the league minimum, Lucic could make sense for the Canucks. He won’t offer much of an advantage in terms of offensive production, but the speculation is that he’ll be happy to be there, provide a little drive, and give the Canucks a more physical presence on the ice. Last season, Lucic, 35, scored a career-low 19 points in 77 games while playing a fourth-line role with the Flames. It’s not worth the money he’s been making for some time — he’s coming off a whopping seven-year, $42 million contract he signed with the Edmonton Oilers — but at the right price, he could offer some value.
The Flames have reportedly given Lucic’s agent, Gerry Johansson, permission to speak with a few teams, suggesting he will indeed be hitting the free agent market.
Lucek no longer fit in Calgary
The Calgary Flames, under the guidance of new General Manager Craig Conroy, appear to be focused on adding youngsters to their roster for the 2023-24 season. And as a suspended unrestricted free agent, it seems unlikely Lucic will be part of their future plans. The Flames may not have much room for veterans with questionable productions, which falls into the category Lucic currently fits into.
By allowing Lucic’s agent to participate in discussions with other teams prior to free agency, the Flames have little to lose if they don’t intend to bring him back. Instead, if they are interested, this allows Lucic to measure the market and understand its market value.
Ultimately, with the free agency period looming, it remains to be seen where Milan Lucic will land and whether the Vancouver Canucks will put up a compelling bid for the veteran forward.
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