On the Vancouver Canucks …
Rick Dhaliwal: Teams are calling Anthony Duclair‘s camp. His agent called Canucks GM Jim Benning, but there is no indication if they’d be interested or not.
Rick Dhaliwal: Have been hearing that talks between Canucks and Derrick Pouliot are progressing on a one-year deal. A deal should get done.
Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks have reached out to the agent for Bruins pending UFA Riley Nash.
Nash appears to think the Canucks may be closer to turning things around more than some people think. Nash could bring a two-way game and can contribute some offense.
“It’s not something I would be scared of and I’m looking forward to talking to them,” the 29-year-old Nash said while on vacation in Cape Town, South Africa. “We’ve done our research and it’s pretty interesting. We’re obviously aware of what’s going on in Vancouver and I think they have a pretty good future ahead of them.”
The Canucks could use a center that can move up and down the lineup, kill penalties and play on the power play, all of which are things that Riley could bring if they can sign him.
Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Canucks GM Jim Benning on what he’s look for.
“People understand our situation — they know where we’re at,” said Benning. “We’d like to sign support players, those who can bring us energy, speed and help with the development of our skilled, younger players. We’re not going after the big-name free agents.
“We’re looking for that niche guy who can give us something — whether it’s the PK, tenacity, being hard to play against and take pressure off young players.”
Potential free agent targets at center that fit their criteria are Riley Nash and Jay Beagle. Centers that would provide a little more offense – Tyler Bozak, Derek Ryan and Nash.
“We’ve talked to a lot of players and their agents, but I’m not going to say who,” said Benning. “We’re trying to decide from a team-building standpoint what makes more sense for us. We’re trying to add a top nine or more of a fourth-line, matchup, penalty killer. What’s the best route?”